Sykes Holiday Cottages has revealed the winners of its 2026 Sykes Gem Awards, highlighting some of the UK's best holiday properties, from a Grade II-listed lighthouse to a stay in the grounds of historic Culzean Castle.
The awards cover a range of categories, including best for young families, properties with the best views, and pet-friendly stays. A judging panel, which included Julie Delahaye, Travel Editor and Commercial Content Lead, scored properties based on factors such as guest reviews, property quality, amenities and overall popularity.
Gold winners across the UK
Among the gold winners are The Sir Peter Scott Lighthouse in Lincolnshire, named Best Quirky Property, and the Clocktower at Culzean Castle in South Ayrshire, which won Best Historic Property. The Best Farm Stay went to The Sty in Derbyshire, while Evendine Hut @ Evendine Cottage in Herefordshire took the Best for Glamping title.
Other winners include Bucket and Spades in East Sussex (Best for Beaches), Hona on the Isle of Lewis (Best for Couples), and The Olde Cow House in Shropshire (Best for Young Families). Oakdene Country House in the Yorkshire Dales was named Best for Large Groups, with Estuary View in Cornwall winning Best Pet-Friendly Property.
Views, walking and luxury
2 Channel View in Devon won Best for Views, while Larch Cottage in the Lake District took Best for Walking. The Ridge, also in the Lake District, was crowned Best Luxury Property.
Earlier in the year, HolidayCottages also announced its 2026 Showcase Awards, with categories including Most Iconic Design, Extraordinary Stays and the best in UK and Ireland.
