A NEW shop has opened in Winchester offering a range of south east holiday lets in response to the rise of British-based vacations.

Mulberry Cottages has opened in Southgate Street offering a range of luxury holiday cottages as more and more Brits are opting to take their annual breaks at home.

Known as the “staycation” craze which has seen a dramatic rise in the number of people deciding not to go abroad, Mulberry Cottages set up shop in Kent in 2005. The Winchester shop is their third office offering self-catering properties across Hampshire, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire.

Chris Knight, property valuation manager for Hampshire, said “England is not only a very popular holiday destination for British holiday makers, but also for northern Europeans.

“Mulberry Cottages, has a wonderful selection of self-catering accommodation for guests to choose from whether it’s a short romantic break in the English countryside, a big family gathering for a special occasion or even corporate events.”