countryside (21 community guides)

Get active, be kind to the environment and see some stunning scenery - check out these suggestions for some great routes to explore by bike on the Hampshire/West Sussex borders... read more »

South Somerset's easy cycling in perfect English countryside makes for a lovely circular tour, with great scenery, great B&Bs and great pubs... read more »

Take a hot summer weekend, a spacious river boat and a few friends and family, and you've got all the ingredients for an idyllic weekend messing about on the river Thames... read more »

One day a gurgling waterfall surrounded by luxuriant oleanders,the next an endless sweep of golden sand. Countryside and beach co-exist beautifully here and you're absolutely spoilt for choice ... read more »

The Southern Upland Way is a remarkable cross-country route that stretches all the way across Scotland, from the Atlantic Ocean to the North Sea... read more »

Experience the ultimate unwind when you explore the peaceful picture-postcard spa towns and villages of rural northern France... read more »

The scenic cycle route that runs from Newcastle to Berwick-upon-Tweed makes a great weekend break, passing beautiful beaches, pretty villages and dramatic castles as it winds along the coast... read more »

Deep in the Surrey countryside is Grayshott Spa, a quintessentially English retreat that's tailor-made for city folk in search of somewhere to detox and relax ... read more »

Exploring the rugged landscapes of Scotland's Western Isles will take you from desolate moors to deserted white sandy beaches... read more »

Bath is ideal for a weekend break, with great food, relaxing spas and interesting historical sights. It's also the perfect base for exploring the surrounding countryside and nearby charming villages... read more »

Nestled in the beautiful countryside of Ambleside in the Lake District, it’s clear why Skelwith Fold has been voted one of the best caravan parks in Britain... read more »

Head to Mougins, in the hills above Cannes, for some serious pampering from head to toe... read more »

With quirky gems like Portmeirion and Feather Down Farms, you can’t go wrong with a family holiday in Wales... read more »

Tolkien is said to have modelled Middle-earth on Lancashire's Ribble Valley and the Queen has suggested that if she were to ever hang up her crown and retire, she would see her days out here... read more »

For those who want the complete opposite of a package tour to the Algarve, a pousada break in Portugal's undiscovered Alentejo region is perfect... read more »

In the Czech countryside, just an hour from Prague, lies a fairytale chateau with romantic surroundings, luxurious decor and impressive eco credentials ... read more »

The county of Shropshire has arguably the loveliest countryside in England and, in Ludlow, possibly the prettiest town... read more »

For a back-to-basics family holiday, try taking a horse-drawn caravan around the country lanes of Ireland. This is definitely life out of the fast lane, with pints for parents and hoof picks for kids... read more »

Whether you've got a special celebration coming up or just fancy a naughty weekend away, these gorgeous hideaways boast all the ingredients for a magical break in the British countryside... read more »

Far from the madding crowd (or an hour and a half by train from London), West Sussex contains five great hotels to unwind in. And only one is by the seaside.... read more »