A surfer traverses a large wave. Find holiday cottages for active holidays in the open air.

Book Self-Catering Holiday Cottages For Active Holidays

Scroll down to find a choice of self-catering cottages suitable for those seeking an active holiday involving sporting or outdoor pursuits. Whether walking in England, climbing mountains in Scotland, riding rapids or zip wires in Wales, the holiday cottages listed here will be near an attractive choice of activities to enjoy in the great outdoors. Many activity cottages will offer on-site facilities such as fishing, swimming pools and tennis courts or will be surrounded by long, bracing walks in the country or along the miles of scenic coastal footpaths. 

Click on the preview description of any cottage to view its main page.

Exterior of a stone-built Dorset chalet bungalow overlooking a front lawn and drive.
Sleeps
6
Bedrooms
3

Lanes End, a charming Chetnole holiday rental, offers a delightful escape with three bedrooms: one ground-floor king-size, one double, and one twin. Enjoy modern amenities like a bathroom with a walk-in shower, a kitchen/diner, and a living/dining room with a wood-burning stove. The property features a private driveway, front lawn, and rear garden with furniture. Immerse yourself in comfort with WiFi, TV, and essential supplies included. Experience tranquillity in this pet-friendly retreat, where no smoking is allowed — book now for a memorable Dorset getaway in all seasons.

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Exterior of a contemporary terraced seaside holiday cottage with floor-to-ceiling bedroom window.
Sleeps
8
Bedrooms
4

Fastnet is a recently-built, spacious and lavish townhouse in Salcombe that is furnished to provide the best self-catering experience in Devon. It's just a short walk away from Salcombe's town centre and the beach. Fastnet is situated on the coast in the South Hams area of South Devon and can accommodate up to 8 guests in its 4 bedrooms.

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Exterior of a old holiday cottage overlooking Porlock Weir harbour at high tide.
Sleeps
4
Bedrooms
2

Situated in the heart of the seaside village of Porlock Weir, Somerset, Harbour House Apartment once housed the harbour master but now makes an idyllic holiday home along the Exmoor coast, a waterside cottage featuring two cosy bedrooms and French windows offering gorgeous views of the bay.

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The 3-storey gable end seen through trees of a Cumbrian stone-barn conversion.
Sleeps
7
Bedrooms
3

Ideally situated in the South Lakeland District to explore this gorgeous region, 5 The Granary on the outskirts of Kendal, Cumbria, is a beautiful child-friendly cottage converted from a grain store to a gorgeous three-storey holiday home with an enclosed courtyard, garden and three cosy bedrooms.

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A wisteria-clad, stone-built Exmoor farm cottage surrounded by countryside.
Sleeps
2
Bedrooms
1

Creenagh’s Cottage is a charming stone-built cottage on Knighton Farm in Withypool, Somerset. The pet-friendly romantic cottage for two boasts beams, vaulted ceilings, a wood-burning stove, and a delightful furnished courtyard that catches the sun and views the rolling green hills.

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Frontage of a large 3-storey, Devon country house overlooking an outdoor pool and tree-lined lawns.
Sleeps
38
Bedrooms
18

Discover the ultimate South Devon holiday rental at Alston Hall, a luxurious country retreat with a pool designed for large gatherings. With 18 bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms, and extensive facilities, including indoor/outdoor pools, a tennis court, and more, it promises an idyllic stay for up to 38 guests. Immerse yourself in comfort, grandeur, and fun; perfect for family reunions or group getaways. Explore the stunning surroundings and enjoy easy access to Mothecombe Beach and Plymouth. View this luxury holiday home with a pool now.

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Exterior ofva semi-detached Alnwick barn conversion overlooking a small flowerbed and paved courtyard.
Sleeps
2
Bedrooms
1

The upside-down design of Jenny’s Cottage in Alnmouth affords couples magnificent views of the Northumberland region from its first-floor living area. Views of the working farm and the ocean ensure romance and relaxation at this cosy rural retreat replete with touches of luxury and elegance.

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2-Storey cottage exterior with hanging flower baskets.
Sleeps
4
Bedrooms
2

This is one of five luxurious holiday cottages located in East Devon. The cottage has two bedrooms and can comfortably accommodate four people. It is conveniently situated in Sidmouth, just a short walk from the seafront. The property is a part of a historic Regency house built in 1802 for the Duke and Duchess of St. Albans. This house is Grade II listed, making it a remarkable piece of architecture.

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A large 3-storey farmhouse and gardens is surrounded by mature trees on a hillside.
Sleeps
13
Bedrooms
5

Discover Lee House Farm, a luxurious rural holiday home with a hot tub in The Pennines. This elegant country house offers breathtaking views of Shibden Valley and boasts themed bedrooms. It's ideal for family celebrations or peaceful getaways with spacious living areas, a well-equipped kitchen, and ample outdoor space. The secluded garden, firepit, and undercover bar area are perfect for relaxing and enjoying the fresh air. You can also explore nearby attractions like the Piece Hall in Halifax or the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Experience the tranquillity of remote cottage holidays at Lee House Farm.

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Activity holidays don't need to involve knuckle experiences. For families with young children or those preferring a 'healthy holiday' without the risk of injury, consider hiring bicycles to explore a Sustrans Cycle route or a cycle path such as the Tarka Trail in North Devon or The Bonsal Trail in Derbyshire. To ensure that a holiday cottage has precisely what you are looking for, e.g. an outdoor shower for washing the salt of wetsuits and surfboards, use the Visit Website button to go to a cottage's website for further information. Alternatively, e-mail or phone the owners direct to check that what you want to do on holiday is precisely the activity accessible at the cottage.