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Nature and wildlife breaks

Walking in Murlough National Nature Reserve, County Down, Northern Ireland
Murlough National Nature Reserve, County Down, Northern Ireland | © National Trust Images/Christopher Heaney

Enjoy taking some time off with a unique getaway to re-discover the delights of nature. It’s easy to miss out on the simple things, from watching a sunrise to peering up at Orion’s belt in the night sky or the peace brought by hearing nothing but the wind, the birds and the waves.

A nature holiday with us allows you to immerse yourself in stunning natural locations. Discover the great outdoors in unique ways you wouldn’t at home, with bird watching, forest-bathing, yoga looking out to sea, or simply connecting with nature and beauty in the here and now with family and friends.

What’s more, every time you book a holiday with us you help to care for these special places for future generations.

Nature getaways and adventures

The exterior of Hemmick Cottage, overlooking the beach, Cornwall

Hemmick Cottage, Cornwall 

Just a stone’s throw away from a sandy beach and rocky coves, Hemmick Cottage has plenty of nature adventures right on its doorstep. Head down to the beach at low tide to seek out little sea creatures in the rockpools, bring some binoculars to watch the birds over the Cornish headlands or head off to discover the nature walks around Lanhydrock. Sleeps 4.

The exterior of Wasdale Hall Lodge, Gosforth, Lake District, Cumbria

Wasdale Hall Lodge, Cumbria 

Reconnect with your surroundings in the remote valley of Wasdale, when you stay in this stone cottage. Just yards from the south-western end of Wastwater, a deep and tranquil lake, this cottage is perfect for fell walking and outdoor activities. It’s also a short 20-minute drive from the cottage to the Cumbrian coast. Sleeps 4.

Wake up in the wilderness

The exterior of Bosigran Cottage, Cornwall

Bosigran, Cornwall 

Experience nature like never before and reconnect with the great outdoors at the heart of the Cornish countryside. Discover this rustic converted barn, surrounded by rolling hills, wildlife and sparkling coastlines. It’s the perfect place to re-discover what it’s like to live in the moment. Sleeps 4.

Exterior of The Old Rectory, West Gower, Swansea

Rhossili Old Rectory, South Wales 

Wake up to the sound of waves lapping at the shore or the call of seagulls above you. When the day has begun, step out the door and stride along the sandy beach to feel the sand between your toes. Find that perfect spot to build your sandcastles or fly a kite or discover the view of the beach on a cliff-top walk. Sleeps 7.

The exterior of Bird How, nr Gosforth, Eskdale, Lake District, Cumbria

Bird How, Cumbria 

With the birds as your closest neighbours, enjoy a remote holiday in the heart of the Lake District. Staying off the beaten track, this rustic cottage is perfect for a peaceful retreat away from modern-day distractions. Bird How makes an ideal base for walkers and hikers who want to conquer some challenging routes over the rugged countryside. Sleeps 4.

Relax in nature

The exterior of Trelissick Quay Cottage, Cornwall

Trelissick Quay Cottage, Cornwall 

Perched on the edge of the Fal Estuary, this charming cottage is the perfect waterside retreat. Whether your way of relaxing is a stroll along the banks, watching the boats sail by you as you sit in the garden or gently bobbing downstream in a kayak, this cottage has something for everyone. Sleeps 4.

The exterior of Garden Cottage, Morpeth, Northumberland

Cragside Garden Cottage, Northumberland 

Enjoy a relaxing getaway in the thriving gardens on the Cragside Estate, with stunning views that extend over the Italian Terrace and Croquet Valley. Feel connected to nature as you explore the estate’s gardens and woodlands, soaking up the sights and sounds surrounding you. You’ll have free access to the whole estate when you stay in this cottage. Sleeps 6.

The exterior of Low and High Strawberry Gardens, Cumbria

Low Strawberry Gardens, Cumbria 

Watch the ducks paddle past from this idyllic lakeside cottage where towering mountains are your perfect backdrop. If you’ve got your own kayak or canoe, you can launch it from the garden jetty to get closer to the lake’s wildlife. Feel rejuvenated as you breathe in the fresh air from a gentle amble to the restored Claife Viewing Station or on the lakeshore path. Sleeps 4.

Eco-friendly escapes

The picturesque exterior of Trees, nr Ambleside, Lake District

Trees, Cumbria 

Experience what it’s like to live amongst the treetops in this secluded stone and timber cottage, set high above Lake Windermere. Once you’ve tried some forest-bathing, rowed across the lake or watched the stars scatter the night sky, Trees electric wall heating will help warm you up after your days out. Sleeps 4.

The exterior of The Round House, Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk

The Round House, Suffolk 

If you’re looking for serenity look no further than this folky rotunda that’s nestled in an enchanting woodland on Ickworth Estate. Featuring air source heat pumps, this quirky hideaway is the perfect base for exploring the walking and cycling trails which wrap around the estate or for discovering Suffolk’s flourishing wildlife and breath-taking views. Sleeps 6.

The exterior of Little Milford Lodge, Wales

Little Milford Cottage, Pembrokeshire 

Have a greener holiday when you stay in this charming dog-friendly apartment with renewable energy central heating from an air source heat pump. You’ll be surrounded by the luscious scenery of the Cleddau Woodlands on Little Milford Estate and close to the stunning Pembrokeshire coastline for walks, paddling and pony treks. Sleeps 4.

View of the Water Tower in Cornwall, one of our holiday cottages

Looking for some more holiday inspiration?

With over 400 cottages to choose from, you're sure to find your perfect one for a unique getaway with family and friends.