Closer to home

For example in Exmoor, Duddings Country Cottages have availability in a selection of cottages sleeping from four to seven people, with prices starting from £275 per week (sleeps four ) or £430 per week (sleeps seven), starting on February 12. Visit www.premiercottages.com or telephone 01271 336050 for a brochure.

THE Briggens House Hotel, Harlow, is offering groups of four 40 per cent savings on a one-night golf package.

The Winter Golf Four Offer costs £190 total, based on a minimum of four adults booking together, with two sharing a double or twin room. It comprises one night's accommodation plus dinner, breakfast and two rounds of golf. Valid for travel from now until March 31. Call 0870 6096175 and quote Winter Golf Four or visit www.corushotels.com/briggenshouse

STAY in Bembridge on the Isle of Wight at the family-friendly Windmill Inn.

A two-night Wightlink Holidays short breaks stay in Bembridge on the Isle of Wight is on offer during half term week (from February 12 - 20) for £167 per adult and £62 per child (aged between five and 13 years), including return car ferry crossings from either Portsmouth or Lymington, and accommodation with half board (child price based on b&b accommodation only).

At times other than half-term and until February 28, the company also has three-nights-for-the-price-of-two- offers at the Cornerhouse Hotel, Sandown; The Fernbank Hotel, Shanklin; and St Brelades Hotel, Shanklin. There are also four-nights-for-the-price-of-three offers. Telephone 0870 5827744 or surf to www.wightlink.co.uk

SPEND half term in Cornwall for £429 for seven at Linden Lea, a detached house just minutes walk away from the centre of Penzance.

The price of a week starting February 12 is £465. They also have a barn near Penzance which accommodates six (and one pet if necessary) which has been reduced to £355 from £444 for the week starting February 12. They usually have some late deals due to cancellations Call Classic Cottages on 01326 565555 or visit www.classic.co.uk