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General FAQ's
Call the Active England office on 0333 090 3116. US customers can use our toll-free number 1 844 201 8622. Calls will be answered between 9.00am – 6.00pm UK time. We can also arrange evening calls on a daily basis at a time to suit you. If you’d prefer to email us support@activeenglandtours.com, one of our team will aim to get back to you within 48 hours.
We accept all major credit and debit cards as well as American Express. We also accept bank transfer payments via prior arrangement. For US and Canadian customers we charge in $USD. For all other countries prices are in £GBP.
We ask for a 25% non-refundable deposit when you book, with the full balance due 60 days prior to departure.
Our tours are great for solo travellers as you can meet like-minded people who enjoy the same activities. Sometimes we have to charge a single supplement because of the small, independent hotels we use, but we try to keep this to a minimum.
After a day of walking, cycling or swimming, you will be looking forward to staying somewhere that offers a comfortable bed, hot shower and tasty breakfast to ensure you are well-rested for the next day’s adventure. Active England carefully chooses accommodation for our trips to meet our travellers needs. We like to support local and independent businesses where possible, and we always make sure there are different options available to suit everyone’s preference and budget!
On most of our trips, we offer 2 levels of accommodation:
- 3*: handpicked pubs and country cottage hotels, with great reviews and in ideal locations for our tours.
- 4*: the best hotels in the region, with unbeatable settings, wonderful accommodation and delicious food.
On our private and bespoke trips, we also offer an extra level of luxury with 5* hotels set within the best locations for our tours, with fine dining, spa facilities, top quality rooms and service – perfect for some relaxation and pampering.
3* Accommodation
These smaller hotels and guest houses really reflect the heritage of England. Full of character and history, every stop on your tour will be unique and special. These quintessentially English lodgings are situated in lovely rural locations which mean glorious views from your bedroom window and breakfast table. Cosy and with informal dining, these country hotels are friendly and relaxed. They are also outstanding value, providing you with accommodation that is clean, comfortable and full of charm.
For examples of our country accommodation, take a closer look at The Bird in Bath, and the Highway Inn in Burford.
4* Accommodation
Relax and unwind in these prestige hotels set within stunning locations. This collection of hotels are worthy winners of Condé Naste Johansens Awards; recognising the finest standards in luxury independent accommodation. Prestige hotels offer exceptional dining with tempting and diverse menus. Their restaurants prepare freshly cooked regional delicacies as well as culinary classics. All the rooms are elegantly furnished to the highest standards; these are hotels combining traditional English values with the needs of the modern traveller. The perfect place to rest your legs after a day spent outdoors.
To find out more, check out the Cotswolds Inns and Hotels Collection.
5* Luxury Hotels
We choose the best hotels, pubs and restaurants in the Cotswolds and throughout the South of England, ensuring we can cycle and walk right from the door. Our handpicked choices include the award winning Brownsword hotels, hotels within the Relais & Châteaux collection, Olga Polizzi designed hotels and more, complete with renowned spas, world class service, and Michelin star cuisine.
For more information, take a look at The Royal Crescent Hotel in Bath, Dormy House in the North Cotswolds and Tresanton in St Mawes, Cornwall.
This is hard to answer because it is all relative, what’s challenging for one person might be easy for another. All our trips are ‘active’ so you will need a fair level of fitness, but we can often tailor the routes to your needs or offer shorter options. Our trips are rated: Easy, Moderate or Hard.
Each trip varies on pace / distance / terrain, depending on the location and style of the trip so check out the specific FAQs for each trip.
If you are still unsure give us a call and we’ll help find the right trip for you.
Tipping in England is never expected but always appreciated! It is a lovely way to show you really enjoyed your experience. We pay our guides a fair wage so tips are seen as a bonus rather than making up part of their wage. If you want to thank you guides for outstanding service they will welcome any monetary gift at the end of a trip. Gratuity for hospitality services is normally 10-15% of the bill and it is usual to tip in restaurants and hotels. Taxi drivers, bartenders and baggage carriers do not expect tips.
Most of our tours start and finish at locations easily accessible by public transport such as train stations. We can help arrange taxis if required and provide advice and guidance on further transport.
If you need help with accommodation before or after your trip, you can add this during the booking process or get in contact with the team to discuss options.
A tricky question! It depends on the location and time of year. Check out our blog on The British Weather Myth for more information.
We don’t have brochures. Our website and social media channels provide all the information and beautiful imagery of our trips.
The UK is busiest during July and August when the schools are on their summer holidays. We run more of our trips during the shoulder season when it’s a little quieter from April to early July, and September and October. We still run trips in July and August – we just plan carefully to avoid the crowds.
All of our available dates are live on the website. When you’re ready to book, just tap the Dates & Prices button on the right hand side of the tour, choose your date and hit the Book Now button. This will take you through to the booking process. We can also send you a direct booking link if you’d prefer – just get in contact.
eVisa
As of fall 2024, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) is developing a digital residency immigration system and replacing physical documents (such as biometric residence permits, biometric residence cards, passport endorsements, vignette stickers, etc.) with an online record of immigration status, known as an eVisa. Please visit the UK Visas and Immigration website for additional eVisa information and guidance, or visit the below links. Information may change without notice.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
The UK launched an ETA system, which is being rolled out incrementally and aimed at visitors who do not need a visa for short stays in the UK, or those who do not already have a UK immigration status prior to traveling. More information on the ETA program is available at Guidance on ETA. Effective January 8, 2025, all U.S. citizens transiting the UK or traveling to the UK for tourism, family visits, business meetings, conferences, or short-term study for 6 months or less will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to travel. U.S. citizens can apply for ETAs as of 27 November 2024.
Due to travel in 2025?
Check here to see the current status on obtaining an ETA. https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-when-you-can-get-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta
Helpful contact information
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy London, United Kingdom
33 Nine Elms Lane
London, UK SW11 7US
+44 (0) 207-499-9000
from U.S.: 011 44 (0)20 7499-9000
SCSLondon@state.gov
https://uk.usembassy.gov/
Consulate General Belfast
+44 (0) 28 9038-6100
ConsularBelfast@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Edinburgh
+44 (0) 131 556-8315
EdinburghConsular@state.gov
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
United Kingdom Country Information
Self-guided FAQ's
With exceptionally well-planned routes, our self-guided tours are designed to suit the independent traveller or groups of travellers; those who wish to travel at their own pace and speed. With Ride With GPS and maps, we detail all of the points of interests, lunch stops, cafes – and of course pubs! Cycle and walk at your leisure, safe in the knowledge that a support team and emergency support vehicle is always on standby, and your luggage will be waiting for you in your accommodation each evening. We provide hikers with walking poles, while cyclists are given a fully equipped bike including bike locks and puncture repair kits so you’ll be fully prepared. You also have the option of an e-bike if preferred, for an additional cost. Our guide highlights the key benefits of self-guided and guided travel.
A support team and emergency support vehicle is always on standby, or we can arrange a taxi for you if required.
If the weather forecast doesn’t look great, then we might suggest alternative routes and plans in advance.
Luggage transfers are included so we’ll make sure your bags are waiting for you at your accommodation when you arrive at the end of the day.
The Cotswolds stretch from Bath in the South to Stratford Upon Avon in the North, and across to Oxford in the East. They are known for their breath-taking natural beauty, rolling hills and historic towns and villages, built from the golden Cotswold stone. They are reckoned to be the epitome of the traditional English countryside. They are 1 – 1.5hrs from London by train, and on some tours we collect you from the capital.
The best way into the Cotswolds from London and most major cities is by a direct train from Paddington into Oxford, Moreton-in-Marsh or Bath Spa. Our self-guided trips begin from mainline stations so you can arrive relaxed, refreshed and ready to start your tour. If you prefer to drive, please confirm with our team the best place to park for each tour.
Cornwall is in the far Southwest tip of England, bordered by the famous English Channel and Celtic Sea. Known for its natural beauty, rugged coastline, idyllic coastal villages, beaches and walking and cycling trails, Cornwall is an outdoor enthusiast’s playground! Add in some of the freshest seafood you’ve ever tasted, and a few cream teas, and you will understand why it is known as the jewel of the English Coast.
Devon is Cornwall’s wild neighbour, with craggy coasts to the North and South and ancient hills on Dartmoor! It has inspired authors and painters from afar and is a beautiful area in all weathers.
The best way out of London and into Devon and Cornwall is by train. From Paddington direct to Exeter St David’s or Tiverton Parkway in around 2 hours, or continue to Bodmin Parkway in 4 hours. The South West is also easily accessible from Bristol and the Midlands by train. If you prefer to drive, there is station parking available at all train stations.
To get a bit deeper into both counties it is easy to get a taxi from the train station.
The Lake District is in the North West of England, with rugged mountains (fells), dramatic lakes (meres) and deep valleys formed by Ice Age glaciers. It contains England’s highest mountain, and deepest lake, and is both a National Park and a World Heritage Site, in recognition of its natural wild beauty and cultural significance, having inspired generations of poets, writers and artists.
The best way to travel to the Lake District is by train, approximately a 4 hour direct journey from London Paddington to Penrith.
You can also fly into Manchester and transfer to the start of the tour from there. We can also arrange pre and post accommodation at a range of different locations so you can arrive relaxed, refreshed and ready to start your tour.
Alternatively we can arrange a private transfer for you from London – the drive is approximately 5 hours.
Cotswolds Walking FAQ's
The Cotswolds AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) stretches from Bath in the South to Stratford Upon Avon in the North, and across to Oxford in the East. An iconic pocket of England with breath-taking natural beauty, rolling hills and historic towns and villages, built from the golden Cotswold stone.
The Cotswolds are a range of hills, with its name stemming from ‘Cote’ meaning sheep enclosure and ‘wold’ meaning hills. There are therefore lots of hills and incredible views from the top! However, you will able to miss out some of the steeper inclines – or add in some hillier walk for those looking to stretch their legs. There are routes for everyone and with our routes your guide will tailor your tour to your preferences.
The best way into the Cotswolds from London and most major cities is by a direct train from Paddington into Oxford, Moreton-in-Marsh or Bath Spa. Our self-guided trips begin from mainline stations so you can arrive relaxed, refreshed and ready to start your tour. If you prefer to drive, please confirm with our team the best place to park for each tour.
All our trips are open for single travellers to join. You will have a great time on our walking tours whether travelling on your own, as a couple, family or group, meeting like-minded people on our guided trips, or choosing your own adventure on our self-guided tours. “As a single female, I would not hesitate to go on another Active England trip as a solo traveller”. S.G.
Cotswolds Cycling FAQ's
The best way out of London and into the Cotswolds is by train, out of Paddington, and directly into Oxford station, Moreton-in-Marsh or Bath. All of our self-guided cycling trips begin from these locations so you can arrive relaxed, refreshed and ready to start your tour.
If you prefer to drive there is station parking available.
All our trips are open for single travellers to join. You will have a great time on our cycling tours whether travelling on your own, as a couple, family or group, meeting like-minded people on our guided trips, or choosing your own adventure on our self-guided tours. “As a single female, I would not hesitate to go on another Active England trip as a solo traveller”. S.G.
Our cycling routes are carefully chosen to ensure we bike on the quietest country lanes, with the best views of the Cotswolds! Drivers in the Cotswolds are very polite and guests have always felt safe and secure when riding our routes, check out our Trip Advisor Reviews from guests who have cycled with us: “I was concerned about riding in traffic, but for the most part there were not that many cars. The people are very watchful and careful, they wait and allow cyclist to go ahead. The Cotswolds and very beautiful, rural and unspoiled. I loved the small towns and the beautiful countryside. I would absolutely do it again with Active England. Loved it all.” E.C.
The Cotswolds are a range of hills, with its name stemming from ‘Cote’ meaning sheep enclosure and ‘wold’ meaning hills. There are therefore lots of hills and incredible views from the top! However, you will able to miss out some of the steeper inclines – or add in some trickier climbs for those looking to stretch their legs. There are routes for everyone and with our routes we can tailor your tour to your preferences. We also have e-bikes available on request to make your holiday care-free!
Absolutely! Our e-bikes from Giant allow our guests to go the distance without the slog, to enjoy the countryside at their own pace and to provide assistance that will get you up any hill. They are as good on rural country roads as on canal tow-paths and rail to trail tracks. Safe and easy to use, these e-bikes are perfect for all abilities.
We provide bikes, helmets, cycle bags and all the cycling essentials you will need. All you need to bring are clothes suitable for cycling in, and your enthusiasm! You can of course use your own saddle and pedals if you prefer. We will transfer your luggage to each hotel, so you don’t need to worry about carrying everything you want for evenings out of the saddle!
In the Cotswolds we offer a range of guided or self-guided tours to suit everyone!
Yes – you are welcome to bring your own saddle and pedals which we’ll fit to our bikes for you.
Swim Holidays FAQ's
We require guests to be competent swimmers and walkers. All guests must be able to swim 400m unsupported before joining this tour. Each day we have short and long swimming options to suit different types and strengths of guests, our guides are there to help you enjoy your holiday with us, swimming at your own pace and in your own time!
Not at all – we are not racers! You can swim as much or as little as you like! For safety, we require that you are a competent swimmer (see the above question and answer) however this tour is designed to be a great mix of swimming and walking (to access the swims) each day, with plenty of time to relax in the evenings.
We make sure that the swimming is as safe as possible:
- Our groups are a maximum of 16 people
- We will have at least one guide per 8 swimmers and support will be always with you either on the shore of kayak / SUP
- All our guides are qualifies RLSS lifeguards and have in date First Aid Qualifications
- We only swim when it is safe and at the discretion of our guides, taking into account tide and weather conditions
No. We strongly recommend that you bring a wetsuit on these trips – even for the hardy skin-swimmers, you’ll get much more out of our Swim-Walk tours with the option of a wetsuit. All guests are required to bring their own tow floats – these are essential for safety and visability.
For all our tours we will send out kit lists in plenty of time before your tour. It’s completely up to guests what they swim in, however we recommend wetsuits in April – June as the waters are still chilly! For “skins” swimmers, we ask for evidence that they are swimming regularly in advance of the tour. We provide brightly coloured hats for all guests Tow-floats are mandatory, for visibility purposes
What else do I need to bring?
We highly recommend bringing warm clothes – Dry robe / dressing gown etc – for after you have swum Hats / warm shoes are also highly recommended Beach shoes – such as crocs are required although flip flops are not recommended (to flimsy on rocky beaches) Walking shoes / a strong pair of trainers are required as there are walks of up to 2 miles to access the more remote swimming locations A walking jacket / trousers, should the weather be inclement Relaxed evening attire – nothing smart needed!
All our trips are open for single travellers to join, these trips are a great way to meet social, like-minded people, active and looking for a great holiday. “As a single female, I would not hesitate to go on another Active England trip as a solo traveller”. S.G. Over 30% of our guests travel alone and swimmers are always very accommodating and welcoming. Solo guests have the option to have a room on their own or share with another guest.
We assess, daily, the sea conditions and only swim when it is safe. There are alternative swims available each day in lakes / rivers / lidos / sea pools etc. We are very flexible with our timing and will often have a pre-breakfast swim if we know the weather is closing in.
All guests have to be over the age of 18 for our group departures. We do run private family tours, where children are allowed, if accompanied by an an adult.
It’s completely up to guests what they swim in, however we recommend wetsuits in April – June as the waters are still chilly! For “skins” swimmers, we ask for evidence that they are swimming regularly in advance of the tour. We provide brightly coloured hats for all guests Tow-floats are mandatory, for visibility purposes.
We try and make our swimming tours as simple as possible, with the following included on all tours:
- All accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis
- One or two picnic lunches, depending on the length of the tour
- One or two dinners, depending on the length of the tours
- Fully qualified Guides on every swim, either on the shore/ bank or on sea craft
- Guides for all other needs – from early in the morning till last thing at night
- All transport – we have a fleet of vehicles to transport you between swims
- Luggage transfers
- All meals not indicated as above.
- Swimming equipment, e.g. wetsuit, googles, tow floats (which are mandatory).
- Evening drinks.
Devon & Cornwall Walking FAQ's
Our guides are the beating heart of our tours and can make all the difference to the enjoyment of your walking holiday – so we make sure to choose them VERY carefully! They are driven, knowledgeable, know how to have A LOT of fun and importantly will take you on the ‘road less travelled’ across Devon and Cornwall. They are local to the South West and know the best spots for making your walking tour truly different and truly magical!
With exceptionally well-planned routes, our self-guided tours are designed to suit the independent traveller or groups of travellers; those who wish to walk at their own pace and speed. With Ride With GPS and maps, we detail all of the points of interests, lunch stops, cafes – and of course pubs! Walk at your leisure, safe in the knowledge that a support team and emergency support vehicle is always on standby.
Cornwall is in the far west and southern tip of England, bordered by the famous English Channel and Celtic Sea. Known for its natural beauty, rugged coastline, idyllic coastal villages, beaches and walking and cycling trails, Cornwall is an outdoor enthusiast’s ideal playground!
Devon is a large county in southwest England, with Cornwall to the West, and Dorset to the East, bordered in the North and South by the ocean. With two stunning wild coastlines and the Dartmoor mountains in the centre, Devon is a must-see!
Changeable! Devon & Cornwall has a much more tropical climate than the rest of England so it is often warmer and wetter – it’s not uncommon to have sunshine and showers in the same day, or even the same hour! It’s generally very pleasant and settled during the summer.
There are regular train services from London Paddington taking you into both Devon & Cornwall, and to get a bit deeper into both counties it is easy to get a taxi from the train station.
Cornwall is in the far South West of England, bordered by the famous English Channel and Celtic Sea. Known for its natural beauty, rugged coastline, idyllic coastal villages, beaches and walking and cycling trails, Cornwall is an outdoor enthusiast’s ideal playground!
Devon is Cornwall’s wild neighbour, with craggy coasts and ancient moors! It has inspired authors and painters from afar and is home to and is a beautiful area in all weathers.
There are regular train services from London Paddington taking you into both Devon & Cornwall, and to get a bit deeper into both counties it is easy to get a taxi from the train station. The best way into Cornwall is by train, from London Paddington direct to Bodmin Parkway in four hours, with good connections across the country. From the station we’ll take you down by the sea at Padstow in 15 minutes. You can drive if you prefer, using parking at Bodmin Parkway.
Devon is slightly closer – it’s a quick and easy direct 2 hour journey to Exeter St Davids or Tiverton Parkway!
Devon & Cornwall Cycling FAQ's
The best way out of London and into Cornwall is by train, from Paddington direct to Bodmin Parkway in four hours, and also easily accessible from Bristol and the Midlands by train. From Bodmin you can head directly out on our bikes for a leisurely ride out to the Coast. You’ll finish the day with your toes in the sand and a pint in your hand by the sea! If you prefer to drive, there is station parking available at Bodmin Parkway.
On our self-guided trips we have different length route options for those wishing to travel further or faster, and for those looking for a more leisurely ride. Daily route options vary from 30-50 miles on average. You can always upgrade to an e-bike if you prefer!
With exceptionally well-planned routes, our guided tours are designed to suit the independent traveller, couples or groups; those who wish to travel at their own pace and speed. With Ride With GPS and maps, we detail all of the points of interests, lunch stops, cafes – and of course pubs! Bike at your leisure, safe in the knowledge that a support team and emergency support vehicle is always on standby, and your luggage will be waiting for you at the end of the day.
Walk the North FAQ's
The Lake District is in the North West of England, with rugged mountains (fells), dramatic lakes (meres) and deep valleys formed by Ice Age glaciers. It contains England’s highest mountain, and deepest lake, and is both a National Park and a World Heritage Site, in recognition of its natural wild beauty and cultural significance, having inspired generations of poets, writers and artists.
Northumberland is a county in North East England, and lies on the England-Scotland border. It is home to one of the most picturesque and untouched stretches of coastline in the United Kingdom along with rolling hills and gentle mountains.
The North of England is hillier than many of the other regions of England. However the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales have a variety of routes which makes the regions great walking country and suitable for those who are moderately fit and active. There are many hills, fells and moors but the incredible views from the top more than make up from the ascents! However, you will be able to miss out some of the steeper inclines – or add in some hillier walks for those looking to stretch their legs. There are routes for everyone and we can tailor your tour to your specific preferences.
All our trips are open for single travellers. You will have a great time on our walking tours whether travelling on your own, as a couple, family or group, choosing your own adventure on our self-guided tours. “As a single female, I would not hesitate to go on another Active England trip as a solo traveller”. S.G.
There are plenty of trains from London Paddington to The Lake District (Penrith) and Northumberland (Newcastle Train Station). Alternatively we can arrange a private transfer for you from London.
The best way to travel up North is by train, directly to the Lake District or by car, both a 4 hour journey from London. All of our self-guided trips begin from the Lake District. We can also arrange pre and post accommodation at a range of different locations so you can arrive relaxed, refreshed and ready to start your tour. You can also fly into Manchester and transfer to the start of the tour from there.
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