Our story

About HF Holidays

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Walking holidays since 1913

The HF Holidays story starts with one man. In the late 19th century, country pastor turned social innovator Thomas Arthur Leonard, OBE sought to improve the lives of the factory workers. He offered them walking holidays as an alternative to the annual trend of spending a week at the seaside.

He founded the Co-operative Holiday Association in 1893 before establishing the Holiday Fellowship, now HF Holidays, in 1913.

He was also heavily involved in setting up the Youth Hostel Association, National Trust, and Ramblers Association.

On his memorial plaque on Cat Bells in the Lake District, he’s hailed as the "Father of the Open-Air Movement in this Country". And whilst, perhaps, not as recognised as other boundary-breaking holidaymaking luminaries, he still ranks as our hero.

Our mission is to provide shared holiday experiences that inspire friendship, fun and an active enjoyment of the great outdoors.

Today we are a 48,000-member-strong co-operative

HF Holidays is proud to be a co-operative organisation committed to making the great outdoors accessible to all. Driven by a passion for the countryside and a desire to share its wonders with everyone, we believe walking together can boost both mental and physical health, foster long-lasting friendships, and create a strong sense of community.   

It takes every single one of our 48,000 loyal members, 500-strong team of employees, and 650 volunteer leaders to make our holidays happen. Fuelled by an unwavering commitment to our mission statement, we work together to help over 55,000 guests enjoy fulfilling walking breaks and activity holidays every year. 

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY
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B-Corp Certified

We’re proud to be a certified B Corporation, joining just 4% of UK travel and hospitality companies committed to ensuring their business practices are a force for good. In everything we do, we strive to operate ethically and sustainably, guided by a deep respect for our guests and members who share our love for the great outdoors. By choosing HF Holidays you're supporting sustainable travel and community-focused initiatives. So you can feel good knowing your journey with us benefits both people and the planet.

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Become a member

Membership lies at the very heart of our business. Find out more about becoming a member today.
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What sets HF Holidays apart?

Offering over 260 guided and self-guided walking holidays, what makes HF Holidays different?
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Our Climate Goals

Our ambition is to be net zero by 2040 – earlier if we can. Find out more about out strategy
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