Holiday Cottages for Active Breaks

Find self-catering cottages for breaks built around walking, cycling, fishing, watersports and time outdoors. Each stay is different: an active break may mean a nearby route or venue, a practical base for exploring, or a confirmed on-site facility.

Use the filters to choose a destination, group size and the features that matter to you. Before booking, check the individual property listing for the exact activity information, including whether facilities are on site, how far away a route or attraction is, and any arrangements you need to make.

An oak-beamed lounge with a woodburner, wide-screen TV and a comfy sofa.
  • Sleeps 7
  • Bedrooms 4

The Lofthouse is a spacious Somerset holiday apartment within striking distance of the beach in Minehead. The apartment retains exposed beams, stone walls and other original features and blends this with chic coastal décor and light-filled spaces. Enjoy easy access to the best of Minehead, Exmoor and the Somerset coast.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
Gable end of a 3-storey period house with 2st floor balcony flanked by mature treees
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

The Observatory is a delightful holiday cottage located in Essex on Osea Island. It offers a serene escape for those seeking a peaceful getaway. To access the private island, guests can cross over a tidal causeway. Once there, they can enjoy exclusive access to a private beach, a saltwater lido, an outdoor heated swimming pool, and other amenities. The cottage features a comfortable lounge, a well-equipped kitchen diner, and a private balcony with outstanding views of the island. Two stylish bedrooms ensure guests have a restful stay. Its remarkable location makes it an ideal spot for special celebrations or family holidays.

 

 

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cottages With Games Rooms
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterside Cottages
  • Sleeps 12
  • Bedrooms 5

The Old Barn is a gorgeous stone-built rural cottage set five minutes from Alton Towers Theme Park in the Peak District & Derbyshire Dales. The large rustic holiday cottage in Farley features spacious grounds with lovely gardens, a blend of traditional features & contemporary comforts, as well as an open fire

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterpark Nearby
Exterior of a Peak District holiday cottage overlooking a large lawn.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

The authentic stone exterior of this Cumbrian holiday cottage encases a luxury cottage with vaulted ceilings and timber beams. It is immaculately decorated with refined finishes, state-of-the-art appliances, and sumptuous views of The Lake District. Pets welcome.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
A contemporary Exmoor kitchen with a modern electric cooker and stylish pine top units.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

 The Old Kitchen is a newly refurbished, family-friendly holiday let in Exford. It accommodates up to four guests in two king-sized bedrooms. The property features an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area. It includes a snug with an L-shaped sofa and TV. Guests can enjoy a private patio with outdoor seating. An EV charging point and off-road parking for two cars are available. Located half a mile from Exford's centre, this stylish holiday home offers easy access to Exmoor's attractions.

 

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Cottages with Car Chargers
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
Chapel conversion exterior with tall arched windows near Polruan
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Enjoy self-catering holidays in Polruan at The Old Sunday School. Nestled in South Cornwall, this converted Sunday school offers a cosy coastal retreat between Fowey and Polperro. Enjoy a peaceful escape with a charming living space, a wood burner, and countryside views. Modern amenities, a courtyard garden, and easy beach access make it an ideal choice. Bring your well-behaved dog to share coastal walks. Discover the perfect balance of comfort and tranquillity—view the property’s full description now.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
Gable end of an Essex holiday apartment with large balcony and flanked by horse chestnut trees.
  • Sleeps 5
  • Bedrooms 2

Looking for a luxurious and relaxing getaway? Look no further than The Penthouse, a stunning Essex holiday cottage located on the peaceful Osea Island. This centrally located retreat offers easy access to a private beach, a saltwater lido, and a heated outdoor swimming pool. With a spacious lounge, a well-equipped kitchen, and two comfortable bedrooms, you'll have everything you need to unwind and enjoy your stay. Plus, the master bedroom boasts an en suite with a roll-top bath for the ultimate indulgence. Communal amenities such as a cinema room, gym, and games room are also available for your enjoyment. Whether you're planning a special celebration or a family getaway, The Penthouse is the perfect choice. Don't miss out - discover more about this exquisite island escape today!

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cottages with Hot Tubs
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Waterside Cottages
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

This beautiful Devon penthouse apartment in Torcrossis overlooks Slapton Sands, a three-mile stretch of shingle beach. With its own entrance, three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a gorgeous open-plan living space, we can't think of a better place to enjoy a break on the South Devon coast.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterside Cottages
A Countryside barn conversion overlooks a courtyard with tables and chairs.
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

The Piggery is a charmingly renovated cottage located on Stockham Farm, near Dulverton in Somerset. This Exmoor cottage is pet-friendly and situated on a large property, offering guests stunning views, generous grounds, peaceful seclusion, contemporary elegance, and traditional features woven into the interior of the property.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Farm Cottages
  • Remote Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
A bungalow surrounded by lawns and open countryside on the West Somerset coast..
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

The Pippins is a charming detached cottage that provides a romantic getaway for couples in Old Cleeve, a coastal village located in West Somerset. This award-winning cottage offers guests the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful and tranquil holiday in one of the most beautiful regions of England, positioned perfectly between the rolling Quantock Hills and the stunning Bristol Channel coast. It boasts a sunroom and delightful grounds, making it an ideal choice for a romantic retreat.

  • Active Holidays
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
An Exmoor stone barn conversion within a courtyard in the North Devon countryside
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

The Pony Stalls, near Brompton Regis, is a recently converted stone-built barn on a working farm in the Brendon Hills on Exmoor, just a stone’s throw from Wimbleball Lake, which is within easy walking distance. Sleeping up to 6 guests in three rooms, it’s well-suited to families.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Farm Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
  • Sleeps 14
  • Bedrooms 6

If your large family is looking for a place in the Peak District for a cottage holiday, look no further than The Rindle! This large rural holiday cottage near Leek comfortably houses up to 14 people and serves as the perfect rural base for countryside holidays for families and friends.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Remote Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterpark Nearby

Plan an active self-catering break

An active holiday can be as energetic or as relaxed as you choose. You may be planning long-distance walks, family bike rides, a fishing break, a coastal adventure or simply a stay with easy access to the outdoors. Start with the activity you most want to do, then use the property details to decide whether the location and facilities suit your plans.

Your breakUseful details to check
WalkingNamed routes, access point, terrain and distance from the cottage
CyclingRoad or trail access, secure bike storage, washing facilities and local hire
FishingWhether fishing is on site or nearby, access arrangements and permits
WatersportsDistance to the water, launch access, equipment provision and seasonal conditions
Family activitiesWhether the activity is on site, nearby, suitable for your group and needs advance booking

Check the practical details before booking

A cottage near an activity is not necessarily within walking distance, and an activity mentioned in a description may not be available throughout the year. Confirm the journey from the property, parking or public transport, equipment storage, booking requirements and any age, ability or safety restrictions.

If an activity provider, route manager or local authority has its own rules, check them before travelling. Weather, tides, water conditions and seasonal opening times can affect outdoor plans.

Explore a more specific holiday

For a cottage chosen chiefly for walking, browse our walking holidays. For cycling breaks, see holiday cottages for cyclists, and for angling stays, explore fishing holidays.

You can also combine your plans with waterside cottages, coastal holiday cottages, dog-friendly cottages or short breaks.

Frequently asked questions

Not always. A property may have an on-site facility, be close to a route or venue, or simply be a practical base for outdoor plans. Check the individual listing for the exact information.

It varies by property. Check the route name, distance and access details before booking, especially if you are travelling without a car.

Only where this is clearly stated on the property listing. Bring or hire equipment unless its availability is confirmed.

Many outdoor breaks suit dogs, but property rules and local access restrictions vary. Use the dog-friendly cottages collection and check the listing before booking.

Some activities, equipment hire, permits and guided sessions may need advance booking. Check directly with the relevant provider before travelling.