The Active Traveller’s Car-Free UK Guide

For those who love to move, a holiday is the perfect time to explore new landscapes on foot or by bike. These six destinations are not only packed with opportunities for adventure but are also easily reached by train, proving you don’t need a car to have an active and exhilarating break in the UK.
The Lake District is arguably the adventure capital of England, and arriving by train in Windermere places you at its heart. A new hotel, just a stone’s throw from the station, is your gateway. From here, you can immediately tackle Orrest Head for stunning views, hire a bike to cycle around the lake, or use the efficient bus network to reach the starting points for more challenging hikes like Helvellyn or Scafell Pike.
In Northumberland, the focus is on cycling and walking along a magnificent coastline. Have bikes delivered to your sea-view cottage in Alnmouth and set off on the Coast and Castles route, a largely flat and scenic path perfect for all abilities. The traffic-free Aln Valley cycleway offers another great option, leading you to the historic town of Alnwick.
The vast Brucefield Estate in Scotland is a private playground for active guests. The 400 hectares of woodland are crisscrossed with gravel tracks ideal for cycling and trail running. You can explore the neighbouring Devilla Forest, known for its red squirrel population, or arrange an outdoor yoga session to stretch out after a day of activity.
Even the more relaxing-sounding destinations offer plenty of action. In Essex, the lakeside cabin’s main draw is the invigorating experience of wild swimming in its natural pond. The quiet country lanes are also perfect for a morning run. In Cornwall, the South West Coast Path offers some of the most spectacular hiking in the country, and you can rent a bike in Penzance to explore further afield. The Berkshire hotel also has a tennis court and 16 acres of grounds for energetic strolls.