If that sounds more like your idea of fun, the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean should be at the very top of your summer wish list.

This part of the country was made for adventure. One minute you're gliding peacefully along the River Wye, the next you're swinging through the trees, cycling quiet forest tracks or challenging each other to see who can make it to the top of a climbing wall first.

And the best bit?

At the end of every exciting day, everyone gets to stay together under one roof.

The River Wye – Nature's Playground

The River Wye is one of Britain's most beautiful rivers and one of the biggest reasons people return to this area year after year.

Hire canoes, kayaks or paddleboards and drift through spectacular scenery where kingfishers dart across the water and herons stand patiently waiting for lunch.

Some stretches are wonderfully peaceful, perfect for beginners or families, while others offer just enough excitement to make everyone feel they've earned their evening meal.

There's something wonderfully relaxing about travelling at the river's pace. Conversations happen naturally, children spot wildlife and even teenagers usually manage to look up from their phones.

Climb Higher

Fancy something that gets the adrenaline going?

The Forest of Dean offers fantastic climbing opportunities for complete beginners through to experienced climbers.

Whether it's an indoor climbing centre, a guided outdoor session or tackling natural rock faces with an instructor, it's a brilliant way to challenge yourself and cheer each other on.

Don't worry if you've never climbed before. Most activities cater for all abilities, making it something the whole family or group can enjoy.

Walks That Don't Feel Like Exercise

Not every adventure has to involve harnesses or paddles.

The Wye Valley is packed with incredible walking routes that take you through ancient woodland, beside rivers, across open hillsides and into picturesque villages.

You don't have to complete marathon distances either.

Some of the best memories come from leisurely strolls followed by a pub lunch, an ice cream or a picnic beside the river.

And if someone insists they "don't really like walking", wait until they see the views.

Two Wheels, Endless Smiles

Cyclists are spoilt for choice here too.

Quiet country lanes, woodland tracks and scenic trails make the area perfect whether you're bringing your own bikes or hiring them locally.

There are gentle family-friendly rides alongside more adventurous routes for experienced cyclists wanting a challenge.

Of course, there's always that one friend who disappears into the distance pretending they're in the Tour de France...

Adventure Isn't Just for Children

One of the biggest myths about activity holidays is that they're only for youngsters.

In reality, the Wye Valley has something for everyone.

Grandparents can enjoy riverside walks and pretty market towns.

Parents can finally switch off from work.

Teenagers have endless outdoor activities.

Children simply love having space to run, explore and play.

It's one of the rare places where every generation finds something they'll genuinely enjoy.

Then Comes the Best Part...

After a full day outdoors, everyone heads back to the house.

Walking boots are kicked off.

The barbecue gets fired up.

Someone opens a bottle of wine.

Someone else claims the hot tub first.

The day's adventures become tomorrow's stories as everyone gathers around the dining table, in the garden or curled up together in the lounge.

That's where the real magic happens.

The activities bring everyone together.

The house keeps everyone together.

Big Houses. Bigger Memories.

Staying in a large BHHL holiday home means nobody has to leave when the day ends.

There's no driving back to separate hotels.

No trying to find somewhere big enough for everyone to eat.

No splitting into different locations.

Instead, mornings begin with coffee together.

Days are spent exploring.

Evenings are filled with games, laughter, shared meals and plenty of stories about who nearly fell in the river (there's always one).

It's the sort of holiday that creates memories people are still talking about long after summer has finished.

Adventure by Day. Comfort by Night.

Whether you're planning a family reunion, celebrating a birthday, organising a friends' getaway or simply escaping everyday life for a few days, choosing somewhere everyone can stay together makes all the difference.

The Wye Valley and Forest of Dean offer adventure around every corner, from rivers and forests to castles, caves and charming villages.

Then, when your energy finally runs out, your spacious holiday house is waiting with comfy sofas, well-equipped kitchens, beautiful gardens and plenty of room for everyone to relax.

Because after a day spent paddling, climbing, laughing and exploring...

There's nothing better than collapsing in style.

BHHL have 16 very different large holiday homes for you to choose from. This is just a few of them:

River Wye Lodge sleeps 26

Wye Rapids House sleeps 30

Fairlea Grange sleeps 24

Don't miss out, come and have fun with your family!

Big House Holiday Lets:
www.bhhl.co.uk
enquiries@bhhl.co.uk
01600 732 050