If your idea of a perfect holiday involves wide-open spaces, fresh air, and a healthy dose of nature, then these six UK destinations are for you. They offer a fantastic range of outdoor experiences, and by travelling by train, you can start breathing easier from the moment your journey begins.
The Northumberland coast is the epitome of a fresh-air holiday. From your cottage in Alnmouth, you are greeted by the salty tang of the North Sea. The vast, sandy beaches are perfect for long, windswept walks where it feels like you have the whole world to yourself. Cycling the Coast and Castles route with the sea breeze in your hair is another invigorating experience.
The Lake District offers fresh air in mountainous quantities. The air feels different when you’re hiking high in the fells. From your base in Windermere, a climb up Orrest Head will reward you with not just stunning views but also a lungful of crisp, clean mountain air. A swim in the cool, clear waters of the lake is another way to feel alive and connected to the elements.
In Scotland, the 400-hectare Brucefield Estate is a private world of fresh air and nature. The semi-ancient woodland, with its mix of birch and pine trees, provides a beautiful, oxygen-rich environment for walking and cycling. An outdoor yoga session here is a chance to consciously breathe in the pure, forest-scented air.
Cornwall’s coastal cabin immerses you in the maritime atmosphere. Open the glass front and let the fresh sea breeze fill the room. The air here is laden with the scent of salt and wildflowers from the cliffs. The Essex cabin, with its natural pond and surrounding trees, and the Berkshire hotel, with its 16 acres of grounds, also provide beautiful settings for a deep breath and a moment of peace.