Contours Holidays
Self-guided walking holidays in England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland
Whether you choose to walk, run or cycle, come and explore the superb landscapes of the UK and Ireland with the help of our fantastic self-guided holidays!
We take the pressure out of arranging your self-guided walking, trail running or cycling holiday by booking comfortable accommodation, providing maps and guidebooks and transporting your luggage from one stop to the next. We take care of every detail for you, and with a wide selection of UK and Irish trails to choose from - as well as a choice of customisable itineraries to tailor to your needs - there is bound to be a perfect adventure holiday to suit everyone!
Good to know
- Book with confidence: flexible rebookings
- Covid-19 protocols in place
- Leading UK walking holiday specialist
Key information
Destinations |
Europe, The United Kingdom, Scotland, England, Wales |
|---|---|
Activity |
Active, Walking, Biking, Nature & Wildlife |
Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
Contours Holidays Reviews
What people are saying about Contours Holidays
Daniel Allen
16/05/2020
Been on Adrian's wall walk and now doing legs of south west coast walk it is absolutely stunning. Hotels have all been decent accommodation. With pubs nearby to get refreshments and luggage transfers are never an issue after talking to other people on the trail who booked with contours they also have been happy. Would recommend this tour company to any one and have done so many times with no comeback.
Adam Madge
10/05/2018
I've used Contours for the last 3 -4 years on about 12 walking holidays across the country from Berwick to Penzance and they are by far the best multi base walking company operating in the UK. I've looked at other companies and they just don't come close. I can genuinely say I haven't had a single problem with them in all those trips (and that equates to probably well over a hundred or so pubs/hotels and b and b's and a similar number of luggage transfers) Not a single luggage transfer missed or damaged the standard of accommodation and hosts is excellent and having regularly compared prices with other walking companies they are very competitive.
Ian Gunn
15/09/2020
We would like to thank the Contours Team and their industry partners (Luggage Transfers, Taxi Firms & B&B/Hoteliers) for helping us complete another 91+ miles of the SWCP (South Devon & Torbay). Everything went like clockwork and we appreciated the attention to detail that made the trip so memorable. We especially liked the call from Ben before the holiday, offering advice (which we took) about the Noss Mayo circuit and during the holiday to discuss one of our taxi transfers. If everything goes to plan, in these uncertain terms we will be using Contours again to plan the last 115 miles of our SWCP odyssey.
Donna Hadsley-Chaplin
27/01/2020
Great walking holiday on Hadrian's Wall. All organised well and service was efficient. Great choice of B&B's.
Contours Holidays tours
Kintyre Way
Self-guided tour from Tarbert to Machrihanish
|
Destinations
|
Kintyre Peninsula |
|---|---|
|
Activity
|
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
Recommended Multi-Day Tours
Kintyre Way
Self-guided tour from Tarbert to Machrihanish
5 – 8 days £550 – £815 per person By Contours Holidays| Destinations |
Kintyre Peninsula |
|---|---|
| Activity |
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
 Physical Level |
Moderate |
The remote Kintyre Peninsula has all the usual Highland ingredients – magnificent scenery, abundant wildlife, and a wealth of history and famous whisky distilleries – with the added attraction of being one of the least-explored corners of Scotland. The Kintyre Way winds through heather moorland, tranquil glens, deserted beaches and sparkling lochs, and the views from the trail are breath-taking. From the west coast you’ll spot the islands of Jura, Islay, Cara, Gigha and Ireland itself, while the east coast showcases the superb heights of Arran’s craggy mountains. Grey seals bask on inshore rocks, and over 400 species of birds have been recorded on the peninsula, including cormorants and golden eagles.
 |
Accommodation |
We book three star and above or equivalent accommodation at family-run bed and breakfasts, friendly guesthouses, country inns and small hotels. Each has been carefully chosen for their quality, the warmth of their welcome and their closeness to the trail. We aim to book en-suite rooms each night, but please be aware that this is not always possible, especially in the most remote areas. |
|
Breakfast |
A continental or cooked breakfast is included at your accommodation each morning as standard. Inform Contours of any dietary requirements within your group and we’ll notify each accommodation in advance. We recommend telephoning your accommodation prior to your arrival to discuss your specific requirements. In some cases it may be worth carrying your favourite substitute items with you. |
|
Ground transfers |
A light daypack is all you’ll need to carry during the day. Your larger luggage will be transported for you between each overnight stop. |
|
Support |
24-hour emergency support, plus a holiday pack which includes: Maps, route guidebooks, a day-to-day itinerary, details of each night’s accommodation and how to get there from the trail, and luggage tags. |
|
Ground transfers |
There may be occasions during your walk where your accommodation is situated more than a mile from the trail, or you may have to spend more than one night in the same place. Where this is the case, we generally provide transfers between your accommodation and the trail, which will be included in the holiday cost. |
Glyndŵr's Way
Self-guided walking holiday to Mid Wales
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Destinations
|
Powys |
|---|---|
|
Activity
|
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
Recommended Multi-Day Tours
Glyndŵr's Way
Self-guided walking holiday to Mid Wales
10 – 12 days £925 – £1,110 per person By Contours Holidays| Destinations |
Powys |
|---|---|
| Activity |
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
| Physical Level |
Moderate |
In the early 15th century, Owain Glyndŵr led an ill-fated rebellion against English rule. This superb walk through some of the finest scenery in Wales visits many of the sites connected with his campaign for an independent Welsh nation. Beginning in the old market town of Knighton on the English border, the walk enjoys a landscape of rich farmland, rounded hills, quiet forests, gentle riverbanks and hidden valleys, with excellent, far-reaching views throughout.
As well as many wonderful little settlements, Glyndŵr's Way boasts a wealth of amazing history to discover, with landmarks of interest including the ruins of Abbey Cwmhir and the magnificent Powis Castle.
Shorter sections of this trail are available — get in touch for more information.
|
Accommodation |
We book three star and above or equivalent accommodation at family-run bed and breakfasts, friendly guesthouses, country inns and small hotels. Each has been carefully chosen for their quality, the warmth of their welcome and their closeness to the trail. We aim to book en-suite rooms each night, but please be aware that this is not always possible, especially in the most remote areas. |
|
Breakfast |
A continental or cooked breakfast is included at your accommodation each morning as standard. Inform Contours of any dietary requirements within your group and we’ll notify each accommodation in advance. We recommend telephoning your accommodation prior to your arrival to discuss your specific requirements. In some cases it may be worth carrying your favourite substitute items with you. |
|
Ground transfers |
A light daypack is all you’ll need to carry during the day. Your larger luggage will be transported for you between each overnight stop. |
|
Support |
24-hour emergency support, plus a holiday pack which includes: Maps, route guidebooks, a day-to-day itinerary, details of each night’s accommodation and how to get there from the trail, and luggage tags. |
|
Ground transfers |
There may be occasions during your walk where your accommodation is situated more than a mile from the trail, or you may have to spend more than one night in the same place. Where this is the case, we generally provide transfers between your accommodation and the trail, which will be included in the holiday cost. |
Glyndwr's Way Short Break
Self-guided walking holiday
|
Destinations
|
Powys |
|---|---|
|
Activity
|
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
Recommended Multi-Day Tours
Glyndwr's Way Short Break
Self-guided walking holiday
4 days From £380 per person By Contours Holidays| Destinations |
Powys |
|---|---|
| Activity |
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
| Physical Level |
Moderate |
This break is ideal for those seeking a short getaway in the Welsh countryside. Beginning at Llanidloes, the trail encounters a mixture of woodland, farmland and open moorland, and visits a number of historic landmarks such as the old lead mines at the foot of Llyn Clywedog.
The valleys and hilltops on this walk offer fine viewpoints at which to take in the gorgeous scenery, with some areas offering views as far as southern Snowdonia.
The settlements along the way are also worth exploring, such as Machynlleth and the walk's finishing point of Llanbrynmair, along with plenty of other charming little villages and hamlets.
|
Accommodation |
We book three star and above or equivalent accommodation at family-run bed and breakfasts, friendly guesthouses, country inns and small hotels. Each has been carefully chosen for their quality, the warmth of their welcome and their closeness to the trail. We aim to book en-suite rooms each night, but please be aware that this is not always possible, especially in the most remote areas. |
|
Breakfast |
A continental or cooked breakfast is included at your accommodation each morning as standard. Inform Contours of any dietary requirements within your group and we’ll notify each accommodation in advance. We recommend telephoning your accommodation prior to your arrival to discuss your specific requirements. In some cases it may be worth carrying your favourite substitute items with you. |
|
Ground transfers |
A light daypack is all you’ll need to carry during the day. Your larger luggage will be transported for you between each overnight stop. |
|
Support |
24-hour emergency support, plus a holiday pack which includes: Maps, route guidebooks, a day-to-day itinerary, details of each night’s accommodation and how to get there from the trail, and luggage tags. |
|
Ground transfers |
There may be occasions during your walk where your accommodation is situated more than a mile from the trail, or you may have to spend more than one night in the same place. Where this is the case, we generally provide transfers between your accommodation and the trail, which will be included in the holiday cost. |
St Cuthbert's Way
Self-guided walking holiday
|
Destinations
|
The Borders |
|---|---|
|
Activity
|
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Culture, History |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
Recommended Multi-Day Tours
St Cuthbert's Way
Self-guided walking holiday
5 – 8 days £445 – £705 per person By Contours Holidays| Destinations |
The Borders |
|---|---|
| Activity |
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Culture, History |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
| Physical Level |
Moderate |
St Cuthbert's Way follows the story of a 7th century saint who travelled through Scotland and northern England, spreading the Gospel and performing healing miracles. Beginning at Melrose, where the saint started his ministry, and ending at Holy Island where he ended his days, the trail passes through scenery of great variety and beauty.
The walk takes in heather-clad hills, tranquil riverbanks and old Roman roads, visiting attractive villages and border towns along the way. Particular sites of interest include the ruin of Dryburgh Abbey, Cessford Castle, St Cuthbert's Cave and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, complete with its ruined abbey and spectacular castle.
We offer multiple holiday options along this trail—follow the link or get in touch for more information.
|
Accommodation |
We book three star and above or equivalent accommodation at family-run bed and breakfasts, friendly guesthouses, country inns and small hotels. Each has been carefully chosen for their quality, the warmth of their welcome and their closeness to the trail. We aim to book en-suite rooms each night, but please be aware that this is not always possible, especially in the most remote areas. |
|
Breakfast |
A continental or cooked breakfast is included at your accommodation each morning as standard. Inform Contours of any dietary requirements within your group and we’ll notify each accommodation in advance. We recommend telephoning your accommodation prior to your arrival to discuss your specific requirements. In some cases it may be worth carrying your favourite substitute items with you. |
|
Ground transfers |
A light daypack is all you’ll need to carry during the day. Your larger luggage will be transported for you between each overnight stop. |
|
Support |
24-hour emergency support, plus a holiday pack which includes: Maps, route guidebooks, a day-to-day itinerary, details of each night’s accommodation and how to get there from the trail, and luggage tags. |
|
Ground transfers |
There may be occasions during your walk where your accommodation is situated more than a mile from the trail, or you may have to spend more than one night in the same place. Where this is the case, we generally provide transfers between your accommodation and the trail, which will be included in the holiday cost. |
Great Glen Way
Self-guided walking holiday
|
Destinations
|
The Highlands |
|---|---|
|
Activity
|
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
Recommended Multi-Day Tours
Great Glen Way
Self-guided walking holiday
3 – 8 days £555 – £740 per person By Contours Holidays| Destinations |
The Highlands |
|---|---|
| Activity |
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
| Physical Level |
Moderate |
Take in Scotland’s finest scenery on a long-distance walking holiday through the Highlands, past Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, and along the shore of Loch Ness.
The Great Glen Way National Trail follows the route of the Caledonian Canal, which links the enormous lochs of the Great Glen all the way from the Atlantic Ocean to the North Sea. Open moorland, tree-lined towpaths, and towering, heather-clad hills are staple views, alongside castles and forts that have witnessed some of the most bloody scenes of Scotland’s turbulent history.
We offer multiple holiday options along this trail—follow the link or get in touch for more information.
|
Accommodation |
We book three star and above or equivalent accommodation at family-run bed and breakfasts, friendly guesthouses, country inns and small hotels. Each has been carefully chosen for their quality, the warmth of their welcome and their closeness to the trail. We aim to book en-suite rooms each night, but please be aware that this is not always possible, especially in the most remote areas. |
|
Breakfast |
A continental or cooked breakfast is included at your accommodation each morning as standard. Inform Contours of any dietary requirements within your group and we’ll notify each accommodation in advance. We recommend telephoning your accommodation prior to your arrival to discuss your specific requirements. In some cases it may be worth carrying your favourite substitute items with you. |
|
Ground transfers |
A light daypack is all you’ll need to carry during the day. Your larger luggage will be transported for you between each overnight stop. |
|
Support |
24-hour emergency support, plus a holiday pack which includes: Maps, route guidebooks, a day-to-day itinerary, details of each night’s accommodation and how to get there from the trail, and luggage tags. |
|
Ground transfers |
There may be occasions during your walk where your accommodation is situated more than a mile from the trail, or you may have to spend more than one night in the same place. Where this is the case, we generally provide transfers between your accommodation and the trail, which will be included in the holiday cost. |
Great Glen Short Break
Self-guided walking holiday
|
Destinations
|
The Highlands |
|---|---|
|
Activity
|
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
Recommended Multi-Day Tours
Great Glen Short Break
Self-guided walking holiday
3 days From £290 per person By Contours Holidays| Destinations |
The Highlands |
|---|---|
| Activity |
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
| Physical Level |
Moderate |
This short walking break takes in the scenic central section of the Great Glen Way National Trail, travelling 22 miles from Fort Augustus to Drumnadrochit.
Woodland tracks part to deliver the trail onto the shore of Loch Ness, where there are plenty of waterfalls, open views to distant mountains, and the imposing Urquhart Castle to enjoy on the way. Local history and hospitality are abundant throughout the walk, particularly in Invermoriston, as well as at Drumnadrochit where this walking holiday ends.
This tour is perfect for those keen to explore the wonders of the Scottish Highlands within a short space of time. With a wealth of amazing views, mythical history and immersive culture, the Great Glen Way Taster Break boasts something for every walker.
|
Accommodation |
We book three star and above or equivalent accommodation at family-run bed and breakfasts, friendly guesthouses, country inns and small hotels. Each has been carefully chosen for their quality, the warmth of their welcome and their closeness to the trail. We aim to book en-suite rooms each night, but please be aware that this is not always possible, especially in the most remote areas. |
|
Breakfast |
A continental or cooked breakfast is included at your accommodation each morning as standard. Inform Contours of any dietary requirements within your group and we’ll notify each accommodation in advance. We recommend telephoning your accommodation prior to your arrival to discuss your specific requirements. In some cases it may be worth carrying your favourite substitute items with you. |
|
Ground transfers |
A light daypack is all you’ll need to carry during the day. Your larger luggage will be transported for you between each overnight stop. |
|
Support |
24-hour emergency support, plus a holiday pack which includes: Maps, route guidebooks, a day-to-day itinerary, details of each night’s accommodation and how to get there from the trail, and luggage tags. |
|
Ground transfers |
There may be occasions during your walk where your accommodation is situated more than a mile from the trail, or you may have to spend more than one night in the same place. Where this is the case, we generally provide transfers between your accommodation and the trail, which will be included in the holiday cost. |
Yorkshire Wolds Way
Self-guided walking holiday
|
Destinations
|
Yorkshire Wolds |
|---|---|
|
Activity
|
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
Recommended Multi-Day Tours
Yorkshire Wolds Way
Self-guided walking holiday
6 – 9 days £580 – £870 per person By Contours Holidays| Destinations |
Yorkshire Wolds |
|---|---|
| Activity |
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
| Physical Level |
Moderate |
The Yorkshire Wolds Way travels through a tranquil corner of England that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. This landscape of softly rounded chalk hills and flower-filled hedgerows is alive with butterflies, birds, and villages nestled in wooded dells.
Between England’s most famous deserted medieval village at Wharram Percy, views across the Humber Bridge to the towers of Lincoln Cathedral, and the quaint seaside resort of Filey, there’s plenty to catch your attention on this peaceful walking holiday.
|
Accommodation |
We book three star and above or equivalent accommodation at family-run bed and breakfasts, friendly guesthouses, country inns and small hotels. Each has been carefully chosen for their quality, the warmth of their welcome and their closeness to the trail. We aim to book en-suite rooms each night, but please be aware that this is not always possible, especially in the most remote areas. |
|
Breakfast |
A continental or cooked breakfast is included at your accommodation each morning as standard. Inform Contours of any dietary requirements within your group and we’ll notify each accommodation in advance. We recommend telephoning your accommodation prior to your arrival to discuss your specific requirements. In some cases it may be worth carrying your favourite substitute items with you. |
|
Ground transfers |
A light daypack is all you’ll need to carry during the day. Your larger luggage will be transported for you between each overnight stop. |
|
Support |
24-hour emergency support, plus a holiday pack which includes: Maps, route guidebooks, a day-to-day itinerary, details of each night’s accommodation and how to get there from the trail, and luggage tags. |
|
Ground transfers |
There may be occasions during your walk where your accommodation is situated more than a mile from the trail, or you may have to spend more than one night in the same place. Where this is the case, we generally provide transfers between your accommodation and the trail, which will be included in the holiday cost. |
The Cleveland Way
Self-guided walking holiday
|
Destinations
|
North Yorkshire |
|---|---|
|
Activity
|
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
Recommended Multi-Day Tours
The Cleveland Way
Self-guided walking holiday
6 – 11 days From £275 per person By Contours Holidays| Destinations |
North Yorkshire |
|---|---|
| Activity |
Active, Walking, Nature & Wildlife |
| Tour Type |
Custom itinerary, Self-guided tour |
| Physical Level |
Moderate |
Take a self-guided walking holiday along the Cleveland Way, a walk of stunning contrasts. Beginning in the old market town of Helmsley, the Cleveland Way traverses the western escarpment of the North York Moors to the coast at Saltburn-by-the-Sea, before following the Cleveland Heritage Coast to the Victorian town of Filey.
While walking through the Moors, the trail traverses woodland, green dales and heather moorland. This section is packed with historic interest, including the iconic White Horse of Kilburn. The coastal section then follows high cliffs, sandy bays and wooded wykes. Picturesque fishing villages pepper the trail, as well as the famous port of Whitby. Overall, the Cleveland Way is an incredible walking trail filled with intrigue and beauty.
There are multiple options on this trail—follow the link or get in touch for more information.
|
Accommodation |
We book three star and above or equivalent accommodation at family-run bed and breakfasts, friendly guesthouses, country inns and small hotels. Each has been carefully chosen for their quality, the warmth of their welcome and their closeness to the trail. We aim to book en-suite rooms each night, but please be aware that this is not always possible, especially in the most remote areas. |
|
Breakfast |
A continental or cooked breakfast is included at your accommodation each morning as standard. Inform Contours of any dietary requirements within your group and we’ll notify each accommodation in advance. We recommend telephoning your accommodation prior to your arrival to discuss your specific requirements. In some cases it may be worth carrying your favourite substitute items with you. |
|
Ground transfers |
A light daypack is all you’ll need to carry during the day. Your larger luggage will be transported for you between each overnight stop. |
|
Support |
24-hour emergency support, plus a holiday pack which includes: Maps, route guidebooks, a day-to-day itinerary, details of each night’s accommodation and how to get there from the trail, and luggage tags. |
|
Ground transfers |
There may be occasions during your walk where your accommodation is situated more than a mile from the trail, or you may have to spend more than one night in the same place. Where this is the case, we generally provide transfers between your accommodation and the trail, which will be included in the holiday cost. |
What's included
All trips with Contours Holidays include the following services. Get in touch to find out more.
|
Accommodation |
We book three star and above or equivalent accommodation at family-run bed and breakfasts, friendly guesthouses, country inns and small hotels. Each has been carefully chosen for their quality, the warmth of their welcome and their closeness to the trail. We aim to book en-suite rooms each night, but please be aware that this is not always possible, especially in the most remote areas. |
|
Breakfast |
A continental or cooked breakfast is included at your accommodation each morning as standard. Inform Contours of any dietary requirements within your group and we’ll notify each accommodation in advance. We recommend telephoning your accommodation prior to your arrival to discuss your specific requirements. In some cases it may be worth carrying your favourite substitute items with you. |
|
Ground transfers |
A light daypack is all you’ll need to carry during the day. Your larger luggage will be transported for you between each overnight stop. |
|
Support |
24-hour emergency support, plus a holiday pack which includes: Maps, route guidebooks, a day-to-day itinerary, details of each night’s accommodation and how to get there from the trail, and luggage tags. |
|
Ground transfers |
There may be occasions during your walk where your accommodation is situated more than a mile from the trail, or you may have to spend more than one night in the same place. Where this is the case, we generally provide transfers between your accommodation and the trail, which will be included in the holiday cost. |
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