I am looking for a cozy cottage and pretty town to stay in for the holiday. I do not have a car, so would need easy access to public transportation. I have just moved to London, so am considering staying local and checking out the Cotswolds? Any other suggestions for England? Or suggestions for Wales? Thank you!
How about market towns like Stamford in Lincolnshire, Ludlow in Shropshire or somewhere a bit nearer London like Faversham in Kent. Wikipedia has a list all such towns in England by county. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Market_towns_in_England
Someone once wrote a wonderful essay about a cottage in lake country inn Winter- as long as you can see the lake. Unfio=ortunately not local to London. Lavenham East Anglia, old houses, wonderful old inn
Check out the "National Trust UK" site for holiday cottages...it might be too late to book for this year...but they might be able to lead you to some good substitutes...most of theirs do seem to be secluded...but some are on big estates which may have some Christmas events. Check the Tourist Info Office in locations that may interest you...they can book for you. If you are traveling with 2 or less people, a cottage may be too spendy. A nice bed & breakfast may be more comfortable. You can have privacy if you want it. We stayed in a Farm House B & B on Loch Awe in Scotland that was wonderful.