Imagine getting paid £30,000 to explore the UK's happiest places, all while staying in cozy cottages and sharing your adventures with the world. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it's not just a fantasy—it’s a real job opportunity. Holidaycottages.co.uk is on the hunt for the UK's first Joy Seeker, someone to embark on a year-long journey to the country’s most joyful destinations. But here’s where it gets even more exciting: this isn’t just about traveling; it’s about becoming the face of their Happy Place campaign, inspiring others to find their own slice of happiness. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about the destinations; it’s about the stories you’ll uncover and the connections you’ll make along the way.
The successful candidate will spend 12 months visiting a minimum of 12 cottages across the UK, from the rugged coastlines of Northumberland to the charming villages of Devon. These locations aren’t just random picks—they’re the top 10 happiest places in the UK, as voted by over 12,000 holidaymakers in a recent survey. The list includes Cornwall, Pembrokeshire, North Yorkshire, and more, each offering its own unique charm. But here’s the controversial part: What makes a place truly 'happy'? Is it the scenery, the people, or something deeper? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
As the Joy Seeker, you’ll document your journey through photography, social media posts, and blog writing, sharing authentic stories that highlight the joy of each location. Whether it’s wandering cobbled streets, hiking hidden trails, or simply soaking in the local culture, your mission is to inspire others to discover their own happy places. All travel expenses are covered, and your content will be featured on holidaycottages.co.uk’s digital channels and in national press.
Sarah Pring, Digital PR Manager at holidaycottages.co.uk, sums it up perfectly: ‘This is more than just a job. It’s a chance to swap your 9-5 for a year of creativity, adventure, and real connection to people and places across the UK.’ But let’s be honest—while this sounds like a dream gig, it’s also a responsibility. Can you truly capture the essence of these places and inspire others? That’s the challenge.
To apply, you’ll need to be a confident and creative storyteller with a passion for travel, the outdoors, and UK culture. Experience in creating engaging content across various formats is a must. The application process involves three stages: submitting a written pitch and video about your UK happy place, completing a creative task, and producing content during a short break. The winner will start their journey in February 2026, with applications closing on 20th January 2026. Visit holidaycottages.co.uk/blog/joy-seeker-competition to enter.
So, here’s the question: If you could choose one place in the UK as your happy place, where would it be and why? Let us know in the comments—we’re curious to hear your thoughts!
