England
A network of ancient bridleways and footpaths criss-cross the country, trodden smooth by the soles of our forebears and lending access to…
UK Holidays
Steppes’ UK holidays lift a lid on the eccentricities for which our small island is renowned while showcasing our lesser-known, ‘green and pleasant’ locations.
Using our own personal contacts and sharing some of our fondest memories of childhood holidays and special occasions, we have pulled together several holiday ideas and experiences we think you will enjoy.
From the wilds of Scotland to the rugged coastline of Devon, and all the wonderfully quirky bits in the middle, you can expect a Steppes UK holiday to be crafted with the same care, passion and attention to detail that thousands have come to expect from us on their overseas adventures.
Rewilding & Conservation in the UK
Tourism should play a key role in supporting the UK’s rewilding projects and Steppes can help you get behind the scenes to learn what is being done to create a more sympathetic environment for the UK’s native species. Call us to hear how you can visit beaver reintroduction sites in Devon, wild cat breeding programmes in Scotland and butterfly conservation projects in the Cotswolds.
Cycling Experiences
Wind and sun on your face. The zipping sound of a rotating freewheel. Scents of heather teasing your nose. There are few things better than exploring the British countryside on two wheels.
With its network of quiet country lanes and traffic-free cycle routes, the UK is perfect for exploring by bike. From lung-burning Scottish climbs to e-bike assisted spins between Cotswold villages, there are experiences to suit every ability.
Family Holidays
Great holidays are about finding an equilibrium, between being active and having some relaxation time and this is certainly true for family holidays. With our UK family holidays, you can spend your mornings kayaking, trekking or taking a wild swim and in the afternoon, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Take a look at our Scottish Highlands holiday idea or our Devon Adventure holiday idea for inspiration.
Day Tours in the UK
We’ve searched our black books for guides, photographers, historians and naturalists that can take you on a specially curated day tour in the UK. We are happy to set these experiences up for you, to join as part of a larger group or to help you arrange for your own group of friends and family.
Experiences
Tell us what you love doing and we’ll curate a journey that’s perfect for you.
Idea
United Kingdom
Glamping Long Weekend in the Cotswolds
Spend a relaxed long weekend tucked away on a private estate in the heart of the Cotswolds. Begin with an outdoor wood-fired hot tub and end with a fire-pit dinner under the stars, as you explore this beautiful setting from your stylish…
Idea
United Kingdom
Wildlife and Wilderness in Scotland
Combine the heather-swept Cairngorms with the rugged beauty of Skye, exploring two of Scotland’s most spectacular wilderness areas. Encounter land and marine animals as you explore, whilst also learning about the history and conservation of these wild places. This seven-day guided adventure…
Idea
United Kingdom
Scotland’s North Coast 500 by Land Rover
Join a guided, self-drive adventure, exploring Scotland’s renowned North Coast 500 by Land Rover. With an experienced driver-guide leading the way, you will be joined by one other vehicle, as you venture along some of Europe’s wildest coastal tracks. The route you…
Idea
Family Adventure in the Scottish Highlands
The myths and legends of Scotland are inextricably woven through the country’s spectacular wilderness and are kept alive by the people who are rightly proud of their heritage. This trip celebrates the myths, legends, wilderness and people of the Highlands while also…
Idea
United Kingdom
Coast and Moors – Devon Adventure
This is a guided holiday for active families or adventurous couples, who love the feel of the sea air on their face and want to experience the great outdoors on Devon’s iconic open moorland. You will be fully guided throughout and can…
Idea
United Kingdom
Sailing the North Norfolk coast
Spend a night under the stars on a refurbished traditional sailing boat, tucked away into a secluded creek on Norfolk’s north coast. You will set out from Wells harbour on your private sailing safari early in the morning with your skipper at…
Idea
United Kingdom
Welsh Mountains and Coastlines by Land Rover
Explore Wales without limitations on this guided self-drive adventure. From historic castles and holy islands to stunning forest tracks and coastal trails, this holiday combines history, landscapes and nature. With an experienced driver-guide leading the way, cross mountain passes, drive on tidal…
Idea
United Kingdom
Glamping Long Weekend in the Cotswolds
Spend a relaxed long weekend tucked away on a private estate in the heart of the Cotswolds. Begin with an outdoor wood-fired hot tub and end with a fire-pit dinner under the stars, as you explore this beautiful setting from…
Idea
United Kingdom
Wildlife and Wilderness in Scotland
Combine the heather-swept Cairngorms with the rugged beauty of Skye, exploring two of Scotland’s most spectacular wilderness areas. Encounter land and marine animals as you explore, whilst also learning about the history and conservation of these wild places. This seven-day…
Idea
United Kingdom
Scotland’s North Coast 500 by Land Rover
Join a guided, self-drive adventure, exploring Scotland’s renowned North Coast 500 by Land Rover. With an experienced driver-guide leading the way, you will be joined by one other vehicle, as you venture along some of Europe’s wildest coastal tracks. The…
Idea
Family Adventure in the Scottish Highlands
The myths and legends of Scotland are inextricably woven through the country’s spectacular wilderness and are kept alive by the people who are rightly proud of their heritage. This trip celebrates the myths, legends, wilderness and people of the Highlands…
Idea
United Kingdom
Sailing the North Norfolk coast
Spend a night under the stars on a refurbished traditional sailing boat, tucked away into a secluded creek on Norfolk’s north coast. You will set out from Wells harbour on your private sailing safari early in the morning with your…
Idea
United Kingdom
Welsh Mountains and Coastlines by Land Rover
Explore Wales without limitations on this guided self-drive adventure. From historic castles and holy islands to stunning forest tracks and coastal trails, this holiday combines history, landscapes and nature. With an experienced driver-guide leading the way, cross mountain passes, drive…
Start planning your trip
Meet our experts
A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.
Illona Cross
Born in a small South African town, I have always followed my passion for nature and discovery. After studying Nature Conservation in Pretoria, I was one of the first women to complete a very tough cadetship in the Natal Parks Board. It was here where I cut my teeth in African wildlife management.
Talk with our experts
- 1 800 571 2985
Chris Johnston
Chris is the Conde Nast Traveller chosen Specialist for Africa.
25 years ago, my first trip to Africa took on a life of its own. I planned for three months, I stayed for two years. Whilst there, I was mistaken for a priest, attacked by sharks and arrested. Yet the countless, clattering journeys opened my eyes to the beauty of the landscapes and the grace of the people. My recent trips are undoubtedly more comfortable, but the welcome is as warm as ever and the best experiences are still those I never see coming.
Talk with our experts
- 1 800 571 2985
Clare Higginson
It was my passion for languages that first encouraged me to leave the UK behind and grab my rucksack. Since then, it’s been a mixture of intriguing cultures, jaw-dropping landscapes and the wonder of seeing animals in their natural habitat that sees me continuously extending my travel wish list.
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- 1 800 571 2985
Sue Grimwood
I was inspired to travel south from an early age. My form teacher when I was nine made us listen to tapes from Shackleton’s expeditions, I didn’t know it at the time, but it obviously left a deep impression on my psyche.
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- 1 800 571 2985
John Faithfull
My love affair with travel began in a vintage Italian train carriage at sunset on a hot and sticky September evening in 1983. Sardined into a two-bench compartment, I’d spent five hours sharing sweaty thighs, broken-Italian pleasantries and furtive glances while rattling towards Turin, stopping at every wisteria-draped village along the way.
Talk with our experts
- 1 800 571 2985
Paul Bird
It wasn’t part of the script, career plans were quite different but after four global trips visiting such exciting destinations, travel became a passion that eventually led to me entering the industry. The more I have travelled the greater the desire has been to see and do more.
Talk with our experts
- 1 800 571 2985
Paul Craven
Paul is the Conde Nast Traveller chosen Specialist for Central Asia and the Silk Route.
Being from a family with Army connections I can from an early age remember travelling. From camping in Europe and then later being sent to boarding school when we lived in Germany at the age of eight, complete with shorts, long socks, a cap and my suitcase. In appearance not too dissimilar to the children evacuated to the countryside during the blitz.
Talk with our experts
- 1 800 571 2985
Why Choose Steppes?
Our knowledge and expertise set us apart. So too our curiosity. It is this that drives us to create a journey that is really bespoke to you, all the while ensuring we travel and operate sustainably.
Are you ready to discover extraordinary once again?
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