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10% ‘early bird’ discount for bookings made up to March 28th, for anytime in 2026.

Eco-Friendly Holidays & Sustainability, Ty Cwch: Green Tourism Gold on the Welsh Coast
We built Ty Cwch to tread lightly. Shipping containers clad in Larch. Upcycled materials inside. Insulated pods heated efficiently. Sail-like canopies that work with the weather, not against it.
Our Green Tourism Gold award recognizes accommodation that takes environmental responsibility seriously. We’re also Visit Wales Innovation Award winners for sustainable design that actually works for guests.

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A New Year for New Experiences

This is the time of year when you may and many others set New Year’s resolutions. I made them in the past but I was never very good at sticking to them. It’s great to know I wasn’t alone in this. Apparantly, very few people stick to their New Year’s resolutions, with estimates suggesting only 8-10% succeed by year’s end, while around 80% give up by mid-February. Over recent years, I’ve had an alternative way of thinking…

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Chepstow Spring Walking Festival 10th – 12th April 2026

Discover the magic of Chepstow on foot by combingin a stay at Camp Hillcrest Bunkhouse with the activities laid on by Chepstow Walking Festival. Set in the spectacular Wye Valley there is a programme of guided walks led by friendly, experienced leaders. Enjoy breathtaking views and themed routes. . From geology and wildlife to history and heritage, uncover the many stories written into the landscape. Whether you’re a regular walker or simply love being outdoors in good company there’s something for everyone.

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walkers sat on a wall taking prt in chepstow walking festival

Off grid, remote and peaceful, the perfect place to get back to basics

Do you like an adventure? If so, our camping barn, located near Alstonefield in the beautiful Peak District National Park, could be just right for your winter escape.

Get together with a group of like-minded people and enjoy sole use of the barn with every booking — making it a very economical option.

The barn has a cosy wood-burning stove downstairs, but with no heating upstairs you do need to be hardy at this time of year. Bring plenty of warm blankets, warm clothes and hot water bottles, and you’ll be fine. Don’t forget all your usual camping equipment too.

Start making plans now.

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Alstonefield camping barn in the snow

Our hostel is the perfect base for exploring some of the most stunning cycling routes in the UK

Kirkby Stephen Hostel would be a great place to make as your base, perfect for individuals, small and large groups! Whether you’re seasoned riders or new to the saddle, From the breath taking Lake District to the serene Eden Valley, the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales, and the charming lanes around Kirkby Stephen, there’s a route for every cyclist to enjoy 🚴‍♂️🌿

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Eco Friendly Accommodation

The National Trust Stackpole Centre has a theatre, meeting and classroom facilities. The centre can accommodate up to 140 guests and is ideal for educational groups, corporate clients, private group hire and family holidays.

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the stackpole centre Stackpole Estate of countryside coast

Group Getaways by the Sea

Anglesey Outdoors is the perfect place to escape to the seaside. There are cliff walks, sandy beaches or idyllic coves just add adventure activities, ancient history or chilling to your preference. We have camping, dorms rooms, glamping or whole hostel hire.

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Thinking Ahead? Space to Gather, Rest & Reconnect

Between now and early spring, many people start planning trips, group getaways and wellbeing-focused time away.
Shining Cliff Hostel offers affordable group accommodation in ancient woodland, ideal for friends, families, walking groups, schools and small teams who want something simple and grounded.

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The Whithorn Way

The Whithorn Way is a 152-mile walking and cycling route that traces ancient paths to medieval pilgrimage sites such as St Ninian’s Cave. Around Whithorn, new wide gravel trails provide excellent opportunities for both cyclists and walkers, forming a growing network of scenic off-road routes. Whithorn itself is a captivating corner of South-West Scotland, steeped in history and natural beauty. Once a major medieval pilgrimage destination, it remains the spiritual heart of the region as the home of St Ninian — the 4th-century Christian saint, miracle worker, and possibly Scotland’s first missionary.

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skye above the whithorn way close to new town bunkhouse

Our dog Coco wants company

Newly opened hostel in a great location – on a bridleway leading to the South Downs Way. Really dog friendly, with a large communal area to relax in front of a giant TV or scroll using our super fast wifi. Choose from private en-suite bedrooms or book a bed in the dorm. 

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coco the dog and another dog in the porch at South Downs clubhouse near eastbourne

Discover Plynlimon from Hafren Forest Hideaway

Discover the beauty of Mid Wales from Hafren Forest Hideaway, perfectly placed for exploring the Cambrian Mountains. At the heart of the region lies Plynlimon, the highest point in the Cambrian range and the source of the River Severn. Its dramatic ridges, open moorland, and panoramic views make it ideal for walkers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure or a peaceful escape.

For guests wanting expert guidance, Darren, our qualified summer mountain leader, is available to show you the best trails, hidden spots, and viewpoints around Plynlimon and Hafren Forest.

After a day on the mountains, return to Hafren Forest Hideaway to relax, hang up your wet gear in the drying room, and enjoy the warmth of the fire. The tranquil setting is perfect for reflection, connection with nature, and the simple pleasures of mountain life.

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Day 8 on the Coast to Coast Walk – 9 miles east of Reeth.

This newly converted church offers comfortable accommodation for walkers and cyclists in en-suite private bedrooms. Guests can relax in a cosy communal area, make use of the drying room and kitchen, and enjoy breakfast and evening meals, available to order. For those walking the Coast to Coast, St Michaels Lodge offers a convenient shuttle service: collecting you from Richmond, bring you to St Michael’s Lodge for your overnight stay, and then drop you at the start of your next Coast to Coast stage.

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walkers eating an evening meal at st michaels lodge on the coast to coast path

Hogmanay in Glencoe

Our bunkhouse is (unusually) still available for New Year. Set in the glorious mountain scenery of Glencoe, the bunkhouse sleeps up to 16 people in 3 rooms (2 x 4-bed rooms and 1 x 8-bed room). The bunks are comfortable wooden bunks built into the walls (so no shaking when the person above turns over!). There’s a large kitchen/dining room for group cooking. Get in touch for our Special Offer For 3 nights from the 30th December – 2nd January.

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lounge at glencoe independent hostel