Have your summer plans been turned upside down? Although that music festival and foreign holiday might have been canceled, there are lots of great places to explore in the UK. Here are five suggestions from KBPT for active holidays close to home.
Surfing in Devon
Now, we’re a little biased as our founder Kate lives in North Devon, but it really is a gem! Whether you’re an experienced surfer or a complete beginner, Saunton Sands, Croyde, and Woolacombe are the perfect place to ride a wave. Plus, it’s easy to hire a wetsuit and board or book a lesson with a friendly instructor.
The Visit Devon website gives you the lowdown on the best local surf spots.
Walking in the Peak District
If you’ve never spent a weekend in the Derbyshire hills, you really must. The scenery in the Peak District is spectacular, from the limestone dales to the dramatic moorlands. With over 200 square miles of open-access land, you can choose from a number of walking routes – you might even be tempted to climb to the top of Kinder Scout.
Find out more on the Peak District National Park website.
Cycling in Cornwall
When you think of Cornwall, you might think of sandy beaches and pretty harbor villages, but there’s a lot more to this county at the southwestern tip of the UK. So, why not get on your bike and hit the Cornish cycling trails? The Bodmin Beast trail is recommended for experienced mountain bikers while The Camel Trail provides an easier option for families – and there are lots of other routes in between.
Check out ‘10 cycle trails to try’ on the Visit Cornwall website.
SUPing in the Lake District
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a great alternative to surfing and the Lake District is the perfect place to do it. You can hire boards and have lessons on Derwent Water and Ullswater, for example. Imagine SUPing through one of the UK’s most beautiful landscapes with a group of friends… sign me up now
Find out what SUP is and where it takes place on the LakeDistrict.org website.
Wild swimming in Scotland
If you’re after a micro-adventure, how about going for a wild swim? As the Wild Swimming website puts it, “On a hot summer day, what could be more refreshing than slipping into the cool, clear waters of a secret lake? And what could be more exciting than plunging into a hidden waterfall?” From Fairy Pools to Glen Etive, Loch an Eilein to the Water of Minnoch, Scotland is made for wild swimming.
Discover the best Scottish wild swims on the Wild Swimming website.
Looking for some specific exercises to help you prepare for your active break? Ask your KBPT trainer for their advice.