A surfer traverses a large wave.

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.

A holiday apartment lounge with floor to ceiling windows beyond which is a view of rhe surf on Ffistral Beach
Sleeps
4
Bedrooms
2

This stylish apartment in Newquay offers one of the best views of the famous Cornish coastline, making it an ideal place to stay for a break. With Fistral Beach situated just a stone's throw away and the coast path only a few meters away, you can indulge in both adventure and relaxation in equal measure.

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aerial view or a beach with a small seaside village overlooking the sands
Sleeps
4
Bedrooms
2

Just metres from the beach at Slapton, this chic, beachside apartment is perfect for dog owners looking to enjoy a slice of coastal life. We can't think of a better way to experience this special part of south Devon with a lovely, open-plan layout, two spacious bedrooms, and allocated parking.

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A lounge with comfortable sofas and TV has French windows with a sea view
Sleeps
4
Bedrooms
2

A holiday in this beautiful seafront apartment in Torross is coastal living at its best. With a large, private terrace and a sweeping sea view over the sparkling shingle beach, you'll instantly feel miles away from it all.

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A water tower converted to a holiday home overlooks woods and fields.
Sleeps
6
Bedrooms
3

The Tower is a rural cottage that has won several awards for its unique construction and sweeping countryside views. Located near Latchingdon in Essex, this circular building has beautifully combined its original utilitarian architecture from the 1930s with modern sophistication, including a large balcony and spacious open areas.

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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.

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Outdoor dining chairs cluster around a table on a tree-lined lawn on Osea Island. Behind them is a cross-timbered holiday cottage on Osea Island.
Sleeps
6
Bedrooms
3

Introducing The Chase, a charming cottage situated on the tranquil Osea Island. This elegant retreat in Essex features a cosy lounge area with a log burner, spacious bedrooms, and three well-appointed bathrooms. Whether you're looking for quality time with family or some peaceful moments to yourself, this cottage offers the perfect ambience. With its four-poster beds and roll-top baths, you are guaranteed a comfortable stay. During summer, you can relax in the private garden with a fire pit and barbecue. Osea Island provides a range of private amenities, including beaches, a saltwater lido, an outdoor pool, a tennis court, a cinema room, a games room, and much more. So, come to Osea Island and experience your ideal seaside getaway.

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  • Holiday Cottages With a Pool
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  • Short Breaks
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Sleeps
3
Bedrooms
2

A modern and attractive pet-friendly lodge with room for three, The Callow Lodge offers access to a private hot tub as well as Beaconsfield Holiday Park’s terrific facilities. Many other attractions are also available in nearby Iron Bridge, Church Stretton, or Ludlow.

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Sleeps
6
Bedrooms
3

Explore coastal bliss at 5 The Lanterns, a stylish coastal cottage in Hope Cove. Perched on the second floor, relish breathtaking bay views from two balconies. This 3-bed retreat, perfect for cottage holidays in Hope Cove, offers sleek interiors, a fully equipped kitchen, and designated parking. Enjoy beach walks just moments away, dine in village restaurants, and discover the charm of South Hams. This pet-friendly gem is ideal for a tranquil escape and invites you to experience the allure of coastal living in South Devon. Discover more about this contemporary coastal cottage.

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 single-storey South Devon barn conversion overlooks a courtyard and a hot tub
Sleeps
4
Bedrooms
2

Escape to The Cattle Shed for unforgettable cottage holidays in South Devon. This coastal cottage offers a five-star retreat with a private hot tub, scenic walks, and stunning coastal views. Nestled above Chillington village, it perfectly blends luxury and tranquillity. Enjoy the warmth of a log burner in winter and a spacious decked terrace in summer. With two bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen, and outdoor amenities like paddle boards, it promises a relaxing getaway. Explore the detailed description for a closer look at this idyllic retreat.

  • Active Holidays
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  • Walking Holidays

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 directly to check that what you want to do on holiday is precisely the activity accessible at the cottage.