Christian holiday directory HolyHols exists to connect Christian property owners with Christian holidaymakers — particularly clergy families seeking affordable, welcoming places to rest and recharge.
Christian Holiday Directory: Our Story Since 2018
HolyHols was founded in April 2018 by Canon Gordon Dey and Sue Barley, with a simple but wonderful vision: to connect Christian property owners with Christian holidaymakers. The idea grew out of their own experience. Gordon and Sue had let a family holiday property to fellow Christians for years, and found that many of their guests became lasting friends along the way.
For eight years, Gordon and Sue poured their time and energy into building this community, and we’re deeply grateful for the foundation they laid. HolyHols was promoted through the church press and diocesan channels, so that Christian holidaymakers up and down the country could discover the properties on offer.
In early 2026, HolyHols passed into new hands, and a fresh chapter began. The founding vision remains firmly at the heart of everything we do — but with renewed energy, an updated website, and a growing commitment to serving this wonderful community even better. From The Beach House on the Cumbrian coast to Cottage on the Tarn in the south of France, every property on HolyHols is offered by a fellow Christian who understands what it means to welcome a tired minister home for a proper rest.
A Personal Welcome from Steve
I’ve long believed that those who serve others so faithfully deserve a place to truly rest. Clergy and church workers give so much of themselves — and finding affordable, welcoming holiday accommodation shouldn’t be a struggle.
When the opportunity came to take on HolyHols, I knew it was something worth investing in — not just as a business, but as a genuine service to a community I care about deeply. I’m committed to making HolyHols the go-to place for Christian holidays in the UK and beyond, and I’d love you to be part of that journey. My wife, Reverend Catherine, shares that same commitment, and between us we do our best to keep HolyHols feeling personal rather than corporate.
Whether you’re looking for your next holiday retreat, or you have a property to share with fellow Christians, you’re very welcome here.
Steve, Owner & Manager – HolyHols.co.uk
How Our Christian Holiday Directory Works
HolyHols is a directory, not a booking platform. We don’t take payments or handle reservations ourselves — every property is owned and run independently by its own Christian host, so each one has its own character, prices and house rules. You browse our full range of properties, find somewhere that feels right, and contact the owner directly to arrange your stay and check details such as accessibility, pets and arrival times.
We’re delighted that many of our property owners are pleased to offer discounts to clergy and paid church staff, because those who serve others deserve a little extra kindness. Clergy families, church workers, missionaries home on leave, and any Christian seeking a faith-friendly break are all warmly welcome to browse what’s on offer, whether that’s a quiet cottage for two or a larger retreat house for a group.
Rest matters, and we know we’re only one small part of the picture. Organisations like Clergy Support Trust do valuable work all year round supporting the wellbeing of Anglican clergy and their families — a good holiday, offered by someone who understands your calling, is one small part of that same rhythm of rest.
If you’d like to advertise a holiday property with us, or you have a question before booking, please get in touch at info@holyhols.co.uk. It would be great to hear from you.