Our UK vs Europe walking holidays explained

While there’s always demand for holidays here on our shores, Europe’s pull is equally strong. Both are evenly matched when it comes to appealing landscapes and natural wonders, so it comes down to circumstance and personal choice. Here’s some comparisons of our UK and European holidays to spark your wanderlust. 

HF Holidays owns and manages 16 characterful UK country houses, all of which are cherished for their one-of-a-kind charm and sense of warmth. There’s cosy Victorian manors, elegant Georgian mansions, converted granaries and farmhouses, lakeside hideaways, and more – all with desirable addresses just a skip away from some of the best-loved national parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.  

You’re spoiled further with well-appointed guest rooms, relaxing lounges (some with open fireplaces), handy boot and drying rooms, plus plenty of maps and guidebooks available for exploring on your own. There’s also a well-stocked bar, a dining room with menus that pull focus on seasonal British fare made with fresh ingredients, and a friendly team for whom nothing is too much trouble. 

By contrast, partner hotels on our Europe holidays have been handpicked for their comfort, service, warm welcome, and inspiring or central location. There’s also a focus on choice; choose from intimate boutique gems, larger family-run resorts, and well-known global chains.  

Full-board at our UK country houses comes as standard, keeping you refuelled with a cream tea on arrival, three nutritious daily meals for the duration of your stay (including packed lunches), and a hearty cooked breakfast on departure day.  

Most of our Europe holidays are offered on a half-board basis, usually including breakfast and lunch or breakfast and dinner. This is ideal for those keen to get to grips with the local food and wine scene.  

On our UK guided walking holidays guests get to select up to three different-grade daily walks (easier, medium, or harder) with our expert HF Holidays Leaders. Not only do they know a destination best, but they have undergone rigorous assessments and have an unrivalled passion for the great outdoors. You may find that the very same HF Holidays Leader takes charge on a grade 1 walk as well as a grade 6 walk. Read more about our walking grades here. What’s more, all transport to and from walks is included, too.  

On our Europe holidays, you’ll be accompanied by local leaders who know a place best. They’ll have some invaluable advice on things to see and do on your days off and where to dine. Some of our longer trips are also accompanied by an HF Holidays Tour Manager who’ll provide practical support and ensure travel arrangements run as smoothly as possible.

Our UK guided walking holidays offer superb value for money as everything is included. Equally, there are no hidden extras on our Europe guided walking holidays. Where stated, our prices include food, accommodation, and walks or activities. On both, you’ll do little-to-no planning as we take care of everything.

The weather in the UK is unpredictable and planning for rain at whatever time of year is a given. But it happens in Europe, too. For many, beaches may place a deciding factor. The Mediterranean will always triumph over the English Channel when it comes to sparkling waters and golden sands. But that’s not to say the British seaside is without its charms. When the weather’s kind, little beats basking in the sunshine with a tray of fish and chips in hand at seafront stalwarts like Whitby or Cornwall.