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.

A brick-built Shropshire barn conversion overlooks a shrub-filled courtyard with a picket fence.
  • Sleeps 5
  • Bedrooms 3

Emma’s Dairy is a cosy rural cottage surrounded by the Shropshire countryside. The pet-friendly cottage offers sophisticated accommodation with country charm in Alkington. It features an indoor swimming pool, woodland, a children’s play area, a multi-sports court, and private relaxation spaces.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Cottages with Car Chargers
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Eco Cottages
  • Farm Cottages
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Independent Cottages
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
Exterior and interior images of Falstaff Cottage, a Stratford-upon-Avon holiday cottage in the heart of Shakespeare Country.
  • Sleeps 5
  • Bedrooms 3

Falstaff Cottage is a charming and spacious cottage near Stratford-upon-Avon that promises lovely countryside views and serenity. The rural cottage features exposed beams and other gorgeous details which blend perfectly with its quaint surroundings. Step into a charming and relaxing space.

  • Accessible Cottages
  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Farm Cottages
  • Independent Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
The exterior of a rural holiday cottage has a courtyard garden and a dining table with chairs.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Country charm defines Hamlet Cottage, a rural holiday home near Stratford-upon-Avon surrounded by rolling hills. Exposed beams and stable doors enhance the cottage's character, offering modernity, comfort and space to truly unwind with family and friends in Shakespeare Country.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Independent Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
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.

  • Active Holidays
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Independent Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
  • Waterside Cottages
Circular exterior of cottage created within the base of a Suffolk windmill.
  • Sleeps 2
  • Bedrooms 1

Harvey's Mill is a centuries-old Suffolk windmill near Saxmundham lovingly converted into a picture-perfect holiday cottage for two. It's a perfect rural bolthole for self-catering holidays and weekend romantic escapes, walking or cycling in the beautiful Suffolk Heritage Coast, and pets are welcome.

  • Active Holidays
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Independent Cottages
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Quirky Cottages
  • Remote Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
A stone-built, slate-roofed Lake District holiday cottage surrounded by shrubs and small trees with hilly fields in the distance.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

In a secluded, peaceful rural location a mile outside Hawkshead, Hatter's Cottage is an 18th-century 2-bedroom holiday cottage in the Lake District. It is available all year round for stays of one week or more. It is a good base for those who like the outdoors. Children over 10 are welcome.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Cottages with Car Chargers
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Farm Cottages
  • Independent Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
A 2-storey stone cottage attached to the edge of a walled garden.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Discover the enchanting Head Gardener's House, a luxury countryside retreat in Lincolnshire. This Victorian gem, nestled within the Easton Estate, sleeps 4 in 2 bedrooms, offering a perfect escape for couples or small groups. Enjoy exclusive access to 12 acres of stunning Easton Walled Gardens, ideal for year-round exploration. The pet-friendly cottage boasts stylish interiors, including a cosy library and well-appointed bedrooms. Unwind in the private garden or explore the estate's amenities. Whether seeking a romantic getaway or a peaceful break, this idyllic accommodation promises an unforgettable stay. Experience the allure of this beautifully restored estate house and create lasting memories in this tranquil haven.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Independent Cottages
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
The exterior of a modern Suffolk holiday home with large windows on both floors overlooking a flower-filled garden.
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 2

Welcome to Hillcrest, a stunning Suffolk barn-style holiday home that offers the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. With accommodation for up to six guests, this property is surrounded by lush fields and verdant gardens, offering a peaceful retreat near Saxmundham. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Hillcrest is the perfect choice for a relaxing holiday exploring the picturesque Suffolk coast and countryside. Plus, Hillcrest is pet-friendly and wheelchair accessible, making it an ideal choice for everyone. Book now and experience the ultimate in Suffolk holiday luxury!

  • Accessible Cottages
  • Active Holidays
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Independent Cottages
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Remote Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

A fabulously relaxing Hampshire holiday home, Inglewood Cottage provides family-friendly holidays for 2-6 guests in a stunning location on the south coast. The pet-friendly cottage is on a quiet road in New Milton, a few miles to the New Forest and just over one to the beach at Barton on Sea.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
The indoor heated swimming pool in its own pool house.
  • Sleeps 12
  • Bedrooms 5

James’s Parlour is a spacious converted Georgian barn set on lush green fields in Alkington, Shropshire. The large rural cottage offers an open-plan design, exposed beams, trusses and brick pillars, and extensive furnished grounds with an indoor swimming pool, multi-sports court and play area.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Cottages with Car Chargers
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Eco Cottages
  • Farm Cottages
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Independent Cottages
  • Large Holiday Cottages
  • Luxury Holiday Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Walking Holidays
A 2-storey, thatched Dorset holiday cottage on a quiet village street.
  • Sleeps 4
  • Bedrooms 2

Introducing Jasmine Cottage, a delightful holiday home in Burton Bradstock along the stunning Jurassic Coast. The cottage can accommodate up to four guests in its two bedrooms, offering a cosy and comfortable retreat. With spacious interiors, modern amenities, and a charming cottage garden, Jasmine Cottage is a perfect choice for those looking for a relaxing getaway or to explore the coastal beauty of Dorset. Discover more about Jasmine Cottage and experience an unforgettable holiday.

  • Active Holidays
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Independent Cottages
  • Short Breaks
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
Exterior of a creeper-clad brick cottage with an outdoor table and chairs on a paved courtyard.
  • Sleeps 3
  • Bedrooms 2

Set among 10 acres of natural grounds, Juliet Cottage is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing holiday or special celebration. The rural cottage lies just moments from Stratford-upon-Avon and still promises tranquillity, as well a country charm, a hot tub, modernity and, of course, a Juliet balcony.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Cottages with Hot Tubs
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Independent Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Small Cottages
Exterior of a Cotswold honey-stone cottage overlooking a small lawn and patio with a dining table.
  • Sleeps 3
  • Bedrooms 2

Laburnum Cottage is a charming and well-maintained country cottage in the picturesque Worcestershire village of Broadway. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, this lovely Cotswold holiday home boasts a mature private garden and can accommodate up to three guests in two double bedrooms. It's an ideal choice for anyone looking to escape to the tranquil countryside for a relaxing break. The property also features private parking and is dog-friendly, perfect for guests who want to bring their furry friends along on their holiday.

  • Accessible By Train
  • Active Holidays
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Cycling Holidays
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Fishing Holidays
  • Quirky Cottages
  • Romantic Cottages
  • Small Cottages
  • Walking Holidays
A wood-clad, single-storey Quantock Hills holiday home overlooks a courtyard with a hot tub at dusk.
  • Sleeps 12
  • Bedrooms 6

Lavender Barn is a 200-year-old cottage located near Halse in Somerset. It offers modern sophistication and has been rated 5 stars. This property comes equipped with a hot tub, wood-burning stove, games room, swimming pool and is wheelchair accessible. Guests and their pets are gifted with beautiful countryside views and have easy access to nearby beaches.

  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Coastal Cottages
  • Cottages with Car Chargers
  • Cottages With Games Rooms
  • Cottages with Hot Tubs
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Eco Cottages
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Large Holiday Cottages
Exterior of a long, many-windowed barn conversion to form a single-storey holiday cottage in Pickering.
  • Sleeps 6
  • Bedrooms 3

Mallard Cottage is a lovely holiday property in the charming village of Newton-on-Rawcliffe in the North York Moors. The property is pet-friendly and offers four different accommodation options. It features three bedrooms spread over two floors. The cottage's first floor, which includes a sitting room, kitchen/dining room, twin bedroom, and wet room, is perfect for wheelchair users. It is designed to comfortably accommodate full-time wheelchair users.

  • Accessible Cottages
  • Active Holidays
  • Child-Friendly Cottages
  • Cottages with Hot Tubs
  • Countryside Cottages
  • Dog-Friendly Holiday Cottages
  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
  • Independent Cottages

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.