This long-established Devon agency, now part of the Travel Chapter portfolio, boasts a tempting range of 2000+ cottages while still retaining their knowledgable local offices in Braunton, Salcombe and Dartmouth.

Muddy approves of a Marsdens cottage because, long before you turn up with your bags and desire to defrazzle, it’s been vetted  by one of their dedicated account managers. Every year they do a follow-up to ensure everything’s en pointe for your stay. Each property is graded 3, 4 or 5-star, based on space, bathrooms, range of kitchen equipment, right down to the thread count on your bed linen. Quality control, just how we like it.

With hotspots in Brixham, Croyde, Woolacombe and Appledore, their website offers oodles of easily-filterable choice in style, size and location. Fancy a cute coastal hideaway for the two of you? Or how about a genteel country manor for a big family bash? From cosy cottages with woodburners on Dartmoor and Exmoor, to pet-friendly retreats or a cosmopolitan city stay ideal for exploring Exeter and Plymouth – you’ll find it with Marsdens.

You can even filter by distance to the nearest beach or pub (thoughtful), find a property with a sea view, or a hot tub, a tennis court, a games rooms, or an EV charging point – or all of the above, if you’re greedy like Muddy.

Plus, if you’re after a last minute getaway, last time I looked, there were 400+ bargains to be had. Get scrolling!