Fishing in the grounds of country house hotels or surfing followed by Michelin star meals

Hunting, shooting fishing – these are the traditional countryside pursuits, but as anyone who is a fan of the verdant beauty that is rural Britain, you will know that it’s so much more than that.

From Scotland and its enchanting islands to the South West and its surf-ready coastline, the UK has a fantastic array of adventures for holiday goers, as well as those looking for gentler outdoor activities, whether quietly fishing in the Lake District or observing wildlife out at sea. 

At The Airds Hotel in Port Appin, guests can borrow bicycles and head off exploring the lochs against the backdrop of the Morvern mountains, as well as enjoying hill walking, falconry, whale watching and sea-faris.  With many a dog friendly hotel available, it goes without saying that plenty of hotels, bed and breakfasts and retreats encourage four legged friends to join the fun and games.

The ready availability of activities however is not to say there is any loss of luxury.  Guests at the likes of Soar Mill Cove or Thurlestone Hotel in South Devon, close to the sailing town of Salcombe or surfing at Bantham can return home at the end of the day to spectacular local cuisine and expertly crafted afternoon teas as well.  There are even spa experiences to soothe aching muscles and warm up after a dip in the chilly English sea.

No great outdoor adventure would be complete without superb food to come back to and country house hotels such as Hambleton Hall with its Michelin Star restaurant are the perfect example of such finery – although we are also partial to a cosy pub with rooms.  At Forss House in the Highlands they get the balance perfectly right with hearty breakfasts of Finnan haddock followed by a day trout fishing, playing golf, horse riding or mountain biking.  You could even top off the experience by seeing the Northern Lights!