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.

Exterior or a stone-built barn conversion surrounded by a flower-filled garden
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 3

Escape to the picturesque village of Brayford, located on the western edge of Exmoor National Park, for a rejuvenating self-catering holiday. Experience the charm of Barn Cottage, a beautiful three-bedroom cottage with stunning views of the surrounding countryside, covered in wildflowers. This pet-friendly cottage is located in a small rural North Devon village, perfect for a peaceful getaway.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Bayview is a sophisticated coastal apartment within The Cove complex in Brixham, Devon. Overlooking Fishcombe Cove, the apartment sleeps four and promises fantastic views, urban chic, abundant natural light, beautiful spacious grounds, a furnished balcony and a swimming pool.

  • Active Holidays
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterpark Nearby
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Beach Lodge is an impressive detached holiday cottage in Woolacombe with spectacular sea views. The seaside cottage sleeps six opposite the beach in the award-winning resort town. It offers a spacious, sophisticated interior, an open-plan design, a balcony, a sea breeze, and natural light.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterside Cottages
Stone-built terraced Minehead holiday cottage on a quiet village street.
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Beachside Cottage sits just moments from the beach. The pet-friendly, 3-bedroom holiday cottage in Minehead offers guests a contemporary style. Its outdoor space is ideal for al fresco dining, while its interior promises true comfort with a light and airy design.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cottages With Games Rooms
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Independent Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterside Cottages
Exterior of a contemporary, slate-roofed holiday age surrounded by a low stone wall.
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Introducing Bear Cottage, a charming pet-friendly retreat located near Bigbury on Sea. This beautiful three-bedroom cottage is just a stone's throw away from sandy beaches and the South West Coastal Path. Inside, you can enjoy stylish interiors, underfloor heating, and a cosy log burner. The cottage also boasts a contemporary kitchen fully equipped with Smeg appliances and a master bedroom with an en suite bathroom. Outside, you can relax on the enclosed patio or make use of the private parking. The cottage is also conveniently located near the village shop, making it the perfect base for your seaside holiday in Bigbury. Enjoy comfort and the sheer beauty of the South Devon coast. Book your stay at Bear Cottage now!

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
Single-storey, ivy-clad country cottage in front of woodland trees.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Are you looking for a luxurious getaway in the beautiful Exmoor National Park? Look no further than Birch Cleave Stables. Newly refurbished, this charming country cottage offers comfort and luxury for 2-4 adults, plus up to 2 dogs! If you've got horses, don't worry because the cottage also includes two stables. You can also take advantage of the convenient access to the footpaths and bridleways, perfect for exploring.

Experience the best of Exmoor with Birch Cleave Stables. With its luxurious amenities and convenient access to outdoor activities, you'll have an unforgettable stay. Book your stay at Birch Cleave Stables today and make the most of your getaway in the Exmoor National Park.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
Semi-detached Exmoor country cottage with conservatory and lawned garden.
  • Sleeps 8
  • Bedrooms 4

Blagdon Cottage is an elegant and isolated Exmoor holiday cottage in Wheddon Cross. It offers ample grounds with country views, a lovely garden, wooden panelling, an open-plan design, a delightful sunroom and the peaceful tranquillity that comes from its rural location high up on Exmoor. The large semi-detached cottage welcomes pets and sleeps 7/8 people.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Remote Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
A stone-built Feock holiday cottage overlooks a flagstone patio with outdoor tables and chairs
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Discover the enchanting Blue Cottage in Feock, Cornwall. This traditional Cornish retreat oozes character with granite window seats, beamed ceilings, and an original Rayburn stove. Accommodating up to six guests, it's ideal for those seeking a cosy, historic escape. Relax by the open fire, explore the Roseland Peninsula, and enjoy watersports nearby. With three bedrooms, a charming garden, and proximity to St Mawes and Falmouth, Blue Cottage promises a quintessential Cornwall experience.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
Behind a table set for cocktails on a balcony is a view of Brixham Harbour.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Blue Horizon is a luxurious coastal cottage boasting superb views of Brixham Harbour, Devon. The sophisticated former fisherman’s cottage sleeps four and blends chic with tradition. It features exposed beams, stone walls & antique furnishing, and a furnished balcony for basking in the sunshine.

  • Active Holidays
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterpark Nearby
Exterior of a North Devon mill cottage surrounded by gardens in a valley floor.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Set amongst mature waterside gardens in a gorgeous secluded location, Bratton Mill Cottage is a pet-friendly 17th-century cottage near the medieval village of Bratton Fleming in Devon, is a pet-friendly 17th-century cottage. It has been recently redecorated yet retains much of the character and charm of the original mill.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Remote Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterside Cottages
A large old mill cottage nestles in a wooded Exmoor valley.
  • Sleeps 8
  • Bedrooms 4

Bratton Mill Farmhouse near the North Devon village of Bratton Fleming offers the perfect escape for large families and groups on holiday in the South West. A 17th-century former mill, It has been transformed into a child-friendly, large North Devon holiday cottage alongside a babbling trout stream.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Remote Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterside Cottages
An Exmoor holiday home on the banks of the calm River Barle flowing under a stone bridge.
  • Sleeps 5
  • Bedrooms 2

ridge Cottage is a pet-friendly holiday cottage located in Withypool, featuring river frontage, a beautiful garden, and authentic rural charm. The cottage includes exposed beams, tiled floors, antique furnishings, a log fire, and limewashed walls. Additionally, it offers a sunroom with lovely views and access to Exmoor.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterside Cottages
2-storey country cottage with large conservatory overlooking a large lawn.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Bridlecott is a delightful rural cottage in Monksilver, offering the best of both worlds: the picturesque Somerset countryside and the stunning coastline. The property, situated on the edge of Exmoor National Park, is a paradise for walkers. It boasts ample grounds, spacious rooms, an open-plan layout, and access to a charming English country village.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
A one-bedroom, modern terraced holiday cottage with a large rear lawn.
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

A country escape awaits at Brook Cottage. Expansive views of rolling green hills stretch forever from the romantic cottage near Challacombe in Devon. Boasting a four-poster bed and other luxury touches, the pet-friendly Exmoor cottage promises seclusion, a woodburning stove and a sunroom.

  • Active Holidays
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
Gable end of a wood panelled Dorset barn conversion with wooden steps to a front door and deck.
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

Explore Brookhaven, the ideal Musbury holiday let—a barn conversion creating a modern, open-plan studio for couples seeking a rural retreat in East Devon. Recently finished to high standards, this charming apartment boasts a king-size bed, a well-equipped kitchen, and a private seating area overlooking the serene Axe Valley. Enjoy village amenities, coastal charm, and nearby attractions. Discover the allure of this Musbury cottage for couples and plan your escape. View full details for an unforgettable East Devon getaway.

  • Accessible By Train
  • Active Holidays
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays

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.