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.

Sleeps
8
Bedrooms
4

Keltie is a former fisherman’s cottage now offering contemporary accommodation in Portnockie in Moray. The large coastal cottage in Aberdeenshire offers a south-facing patio, sea views and lovely décor. It sits in the seaside fishing village of Portknockie, close to the little harbour, beaches and the Moray coastal trail. Pets welcome.

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Sleeps
15
Bedrooms
5

The Old Robin Hood is a Grade II listed rural cottage near Holmesfield that boasts beautiful Peak District views and Derbyshire Dales. The large, pet-friendly cottage possesses country charm and modern comforts and includes a spacious garden, a hot tub, a games room, exposed beams and an open fire.

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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

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Sleeps
9
Bedrooms
4

Lees Farm is a large stone-built detached farmhouse surrounded by open countryside It captures stunning views of Priestcliffe and the Peak District and Derbyshire Dales. The pet-friendly cottage features country charm, modern comforts, ample grounds, open fires, and rare rural seclusion.

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Sleeps
10
Bedrooms
4

Becks Fold is a large Lake District holiday cottage with grandiose decor and a modern style. Double-height ceilings, original vaulted beams and underfloor heating create a sense of charm at this genuinely warming and inviting secluded rural retreat close to Lake Coniston in Cumbria. Sleeps 10.

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Exterior of a 2 storey contemporary house with wide windows, curved walls and a balcony.
Sleeps
10
Bedrooms
5

Stay at Holly Wood for a dream holiday in this 5-bedroom architectural gem in Sandbanks. This exclusive retreat boasts Art-Deco elegance, a grand double-height lounge, and a cinema room for memorable self-catering holidays. The open-plan kitchen, sleek interiors, and private chef experiences redefine luxury. Annexe options cater to privacy needs. Marvel at the gallery landings, twin bedroom with an 'under the sea' mural, and a Master Suite with a private balcony. Outside, two garden areas, alfresco dining, and a fire pit add to the allure. Secure gated parking for 4 completes the experience. Your luxury Dorset holiday home with a cinema awaits.

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A countryside bungalow with a view of the sea in the background.
Sleeps
10
Bedrooms
5

A sandy beach sits on the doorstep of Swn y Mor, a large seaside holiday cottage with a hot tub in Pembrokeshire which welcomes families. Outdoor entertaining areas and generous windows capture the ocean views and complement the luxurious décor of the pet-friendly holiday home. Sleeps 8.

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Sleeps
8
Bedrooms
4

Hearthstone East Cottage is a large, thatched holiday cottage in Brixham, a popular seaside resort in Torbay. Set in idyllic surroundings, the pet-friendly cottage boasts stone walls, exposed beams, tiled floors and antique furnishings, plus a log fire, a lovely sunny garden and proximity to sandy beaches.

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Exterior of a modern detached house with covered balcony.
Sleeps
5
Bedrooms
2

Discover the charm of Cobblestones, a two-bedroom holiday cottage in Lyme Regis. Centrally located, it offers easy access to the seafront, shops, and attractions. Enjoy comfort in the well-equipped kitchen, lounge with a flat-screen TV, and a conservatory with patio access. The property features a spacious garden with coastal views. Parking is available. It is ideal for self-catering holidays in Lyme Regis, providing a perfect base to explore the UNESCO Jurassic Coast and the town’s vibrant festivals. For further information or booking, use the ‘Visit Website’ or ‘View Availability’ buttons when viewing our main page.

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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.