Search Results

We're thrilled to announce that our luxury walking and EBike cycling holidays have been been announced as one of the final three contenders in the Ethical, Responsible, Sustainable Tourism category at the Visit England Awards for Excellence. The prestigious national awards recognise “the very best of the country’s tourism industry, celebrating quality, innovation, best practice and exceptional customer service.” After winning the Leicestershire Promotions Tourism and Hospitality Award for Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable tourism, the business joined regional winners from throughout the country, to be judged by a panel of tourism industry experts. The judges decided the three national finalists in each category and will announce who has won gold, silver and bronze at an awards ceremony at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter, on June 7th. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour are themselves one of the national finalists, in the Large Visitor Attraction category. Commenting on the Awards for Excellence, VisitEngland Director Andrew Stokes said, “This impressive list of finalists demonstrates the innovation and excellence thriving across England’s tourism industry. The quality and number of applications also highlights the outstanding range of products and experiences on offer for both domestic and international visitors. We wish the finalists the very best of luck.” National Forest EBike Holidays founder and Managing Director, Sue Jerham said, “We’re thrilled that our EBike cycling and walking holidays have received such a prestigious accolade. We’re based in the National Forest, which is at the forefront of sustainable tourism. It was therefore natural for us to put responsible tourism at the heart of our business from the very start.” National Forest EBike Holidays has implemented initiatives such as a 5% discount for guests arriving by train and donating £10 from every booking towards the upkeep of the National Forest. "The National Forest is still undiscovered by mass tourism, and we're proud to help showcase just how much there is to experience in the area. Guests leave inspired by how quickly an industrial landscape can be changed and amazed at how much there is to explore in the area," said Jerham. "Ditching the car, to explore by bike or on foot is the perfect way to discover the ever-changing countryside." Leicestershire's regional judges said, “Our judges agreed that it would be hard to find a more ethical, responsible and sustainable business. The business offers a low carbon, sustainable experience totally in keeping with their natural surroundings.” Additional local finalists Three Leicestershire businesses have reached the national finals. The other finalists are: Imago Venues in Loughborough for the Business Events Venue of the Year category Brook Meadow in Market Harborough for the Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park of the Year category Popular National Forest attraction, The National Memorial Arboretum has reached the final 3 in the Business Events Venue category. Award Winning EBike and Walking Holidays National Forest Ebike Holidays is an award winning, family business, offering luxury, self-guided EBike and walking holidays in and around the National Forest region of the UK. Guests can start their holiday any day of the week, all year. The holidays are designed to encourage slow travel. We keep mileage low, making our EBike and walking holidays perfect for gentle adventurers and leaving plenty of time to connect with nature and explore the many sights and experiences along the way. We love signposting some of the fabulous local woodland experiences, including bee keeping, Forest Bathing and woodland crafts. We move guests' luggage between hotels, leaving them free to explore the region at their own pace and in their own private group. Our guests can expect fabulous accommodation each night. We select the best possible small luxury B&Bs, delightful country inns and small boutique hotels. Often our accommodation providers have their own green tourism accreditations and awards. All have a love of locally-sourced, seasonal food – it will be home-grown, reared or baked in many cases. Unlike many cycling and walking holidays, our routes are circular to limit the need for additional transportation. In most instances, there is always a local pub or restaurant for guests to enjoy a delightful evening meal, without needing to take a taxi. As a small family company, we specialise in offering guests a very personal service, with holidays tailored to suit guest's specific needs or interests. We meet every guest and personalise holidays to suit individual guest requirements. And of course, we're on hand should a guest need a helping hand during their holiday. Location – We are centrally located in the UK's National Forest, which spans the counties of Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire. The region is easily reached by both train and car. The National Forest recently celebrated the planting of the 9 millionth tree – a true success story for regeneration. The National Forest region Straddling Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire, The National Forest is one of England's most exciting and ambitious regeneration projects. The area was once full of of coal mines, opencast and clay pits. The last 30 years has seen 200 square miles transformed from black to green, completely changing the landscape and lives of local people. Miners have become forest guardians and forest schools are common place for children. Some of the UK's most productive mines are now filled with trees and wildlife. The 9 millionth tree was planted in 2021 and the region has gone from less than 6% to over 20% tree coverage. Start planning your adventure!

Happy Earth Day! Happy Earth Day! Today is a special day when we celebrate our planet and renew our commitment to protecting it. It's a cause which is very close to our hearts. We are passionate about providing sustainable cycling and walking holidays in the UK's National Forest, whilst minimising our impact on the environment. Our commitment to sustainable tourism has helped us win the accolade of a Green Tourism Gold Award, as well as being named Leicestershire's winning Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism business in 2022. We believe that tourism can make a positive contribution to our planet, and we strive to provide unforgettable travel experiences that also benefit the environment. On this Earth Day, here's some of the ways that we “Invest in our Planet” - the theme for 2023. "We must join together in our fight for the green revolution, and for the health of future generations. The time is now to Invest In Our Planet," said Kathleen Rogers, President of EARTHDAY.ORG. 5% Discount For Guests Arriving by Train One of the biggest impacts of tourism on the environment is transport. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), tourism is responsible for about 5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. To help reduce our carbon footprint, we encourage our guests to travel sustainably and offer a 5% discount to all cycling and walking holiday guests who arrive by train. We are also members of the Good Journey scheme, which promotes car-free sightseeing and activities in the UK. We adapt the start our walking and e-bike holidays from local train stations to eliminate the need for a taxi or bus ride. Sustainable Exploration Our luxury Ebike and walking holidays are a great way to explore the region, car free. Even better, you see far more when you ditch the car and explore on foot or by bike. Low daily mileage, on both our EBike and walking holidays, allows guests the time to travel slow and get to know the region. The beautiful and diverse countryside of the National Forest is packed with places to explore, yet remains largely undiscovered by mass tourism. Guests visiting the area can feel confident that they're positively contributing to the local economy and can enjoy walking and cycling along peaceful tracks, with just birdsong for company. Reduce Waste Reducing waste is dear to our hearts and something we can all do to help protect our environment. A simple way we help is by encouraging guests to carry reusable coffee and water cups. Many businesses offer discounts to customers who use reusable cups, so it's a win-win situation! We also reuse paper maps and information packs in the business, minimise printed materials, and use recycled paper for anything printed. Supporting Local Communities Our Leicestershire sustainable tourism award recognises our commitment to supporting local businesses and communities. The National Forest has been our home for nearly 40 years, so we have a strong personal interest in supporting the local community. We believe that sustainable tourism should benefit everyone involved, and we work closely with local communities to ensure that our business helps to create positive social and economic impacts. We handpick the very best accommodation in the area, with eco-friendly practices being a key part of our decision-making process. Some of our local hotels and bed and breakfasts are award-winning sustainable businesses in their own right, with kitchen gardens to feed guests, line-drying laundry policies, strong waste reduction policies, and key local employers. Community programs have been at the heart of the National Forest development, giving birth to community orchards, woodland management programs, well-being activities, and many different green businesses, as well as helping develop a sustainable tourism infrastructure within the area. Guests can experience many of these on our walking and cycling routes. The creation of the National Forest has also led to many thriving local businesses, showcasing woodland crafts, forest bathing, kayaking, bird-watching, and many more sustainable activities. We love sharing these experiences with our guests, who often build one or two activities into their holiday package. Eat and Shop Local One of the great pleasures on holiday is sampling the local produce. This region has a proud heritage of food production and we love sharing this with our guests. Melbourne was known for the quality and number of market gardens. Leicester is where the Vegan Society was formed in 1944. Burton upon Trent is known worldwide as the British beer capital. We encourage guests to sample the mouthwatering produce from a wide range of local food and drink businesses in the area. We also encourage our guests to support local shops as they travel. We even collect any large purchases for them and transport them with their luggage. With fabulous artisan craft shops, wonderful boutiques and quirky shops packed with delightful gifts, shopping locally is a real delight. Donation to The National Forest for Every Booking We're lucky to operate in and around the National Forest, one of the UK's most ambitious reforestation projects. Trees play a vital role in helping fight climate change, as well as transforming the landscape and local communities. The National Forest is fully committed to protecting our earth, and so are we. That's why we support the development of the National Forest with a donation for every booking made. We believe that tourism can be a force for good, and we're dedicated to creating unforgettable walking and EBike cycling holidays that also benefit the planet. This Earth Day, we encourage everyone to do their part in protecting our beautiful planet, and we welcome you to join us on our journey towards sustainable tourism. HAPPY EARTH DAY - LET'S MAKE IT COUNT. Contact us today to learn more and start planning your adventure!

Discover one England's newest long distance trails If you're a fan of long-distance walking holidays, the National Forest Way in England should definitely be on your bucket list. Opened in 2014, this 75-mile (121 kilometres) trail is one of England's newest and most inspiring long-distance walking routes. It takes walkers through the ever-changing landscape of the National Forest, crossing the counties of Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire. With its diverse terrain, from ancient and newer woodland to picturesque villages and historic landmarks, the National Forest Way promises a unique and unforgettable walking experience. A walking holiday along the National Forest Way is an excellent way to experience the history and culture of a part of England undiscovered by mass tourism. Transforming the Landscape: The National Forest Project The National Forest is an ambitious and innovative project that began in 1991. The goal was to transform 200 square miles of the Midlands' landscape, previously scarred by mining and quarrying, into a rich and varied woodland. Over the years, the National Forest has planted over 9 million trees, creating a diverse array of wildlife habitats, including woodland and heaths, meadowland and wetlands. Be inspired as you walk the National Forest Way and see firsthand how the landscape has been transformed from black to green in just a few decades.Along the way you will learn how the forest is managed sustainably, providing both commercial and leisure opportunities, as well as new opportunities for local employment. Much of the woodland maintenance is undertaken by community volunteer groups, and local communities and businesses have also planted and adopted woodland areas, including a number of fabulous community orchards. The woodland even supports charcoal makers, creating a sustainable English charcoal. Exploring the National Forest Way: An Adventure for Everyone The National Forest Way offers an adventure for everyone, showcasing the diversity and progress of the changing landscape. Walk through ancient woodlands, parklands, meadows, and newer plantations.. As you journey along the trail, you'll encounter picturesque villages and bustling towns, each with its own unique history and architecture. The National Forest is also rich in cultural heritage, with ancient churches, abbeys, and manor houses dotted throughout the landscape. Be sure to visit the National Trust property of Calke Abbey, a Grade I listed stately home with extensive parkland and gardens. Keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife along the way, making this walk perfect for heritage buffs and nature lovers alike. The National Forest Way is ideal for walkers looking for a gentler terrain. The route is well-marked, and there are plenty of opportunities to rest and grab a bite to eat. Plus, if you need to cut a day's walk short, you're never too far from civilisation. National Forest Way start and end points The eastern end point of the National Forest Way is at craggy Beacon Hill in Leicestershire. Set in the heart of the Charnwood Geopark, Beacon Hill is one of the highest points in the county and was historically an important signal point. The rocky crags found at Beacon Hill are some of the oldest rocks found in England and the area forms part of the new Charnwood GeoPark. The western end point of the National Forest Way is at the stunning National Memorial Arboretum, just north of Lichfield. Set in 150 acres and with over 400 memorials, the Arboretum is an inspiring site to learn more about the many stories of those serving the country and Commonwealth, since the 2nd World War. The National Forest Way Stages The National Forest Way has been divided into 12 stages, ranging from 4 to 7.5 miles. Each stage highlights a different aspect of the National Forest and showcases the diversity of the countryside. Walkers walking westbound along the National Forest Way, from Beacon Hill should follow purple waymarker discs. Walkers walking eastbound should follow orange waymarker discs. Getting to the National Forest Way by Train Situated in the Heart of England, the National Forest is easily reached from all parts of the UK. The start and end of National Forest Way are easily accessible by train from Loughborough and Lichfield. From these stations, you can connect to the trail by a short bus or taxi journey. This makes the National Forest Way a perfect walk for those seeking a “no drive holiday.” As well as being the more sustainable option, arriving by train avoids having to travel back to your starting point to retrieve your vehicle. Explore the National Forest Way on our Self-Guided Walking Holidays Our self-guided walking holidays along the National Forest Way are perfect for guests seeking a hassle-free walking holiday, with onground support from local experts. Choose from our 7-night or 10-night walking holiday options to explore the entire National Forest Way at your own pace. We take care of everything, from arranging your accommodation to transferring your luggage between hotels. You'll receive detailed maps and directions, along with information on the best places to explore and eat. And if you need assistance during your holiday, we're only a phone call away. Looking for a shorter self-guided walking holiday? We have a range of gentle walking holidays around the National Forest area. Contact us today to learn more and start planning your adventure!

What's the difference between a guided and self-guided walking holiday? Walking holidays are a popular way to explore new destinations, whilst getting some exercise and enjoying the health benefits of being outdoors. If you're considering a walking holiday, you may be wondering whether to choose a guided or self-guided option. In this post, we explore the main differences between these two types of walking holidays to help you decide which is right for you. What is a Self-Guided Walking Holiday? On a self-guided walking holiday, a detailed route and accommodation are organised, but you won't have a physical guide to lead you each day. Instead, you follow the detailed instructions in your own private group (or solo), setting your own walking pace, without the pressure of having to keep up with a larger group. This makes this option perfect for independent travellers, who prefer to have flexibility over their schedule, with the convenience of an arranged itinerary and accommodation. Self-guided walking holiday providers can often personalise your holiday experience, to suit you and your interests, from tailoring the daily mileage to visiting specific heritage sites or building in additional experiences into the holiday package. Many walkers love the flexibility and independence that a self-guided walking holiday offers. Set off when you are ready each morning and stop where you choose along the way, without keeping to a predetermined schedule. On a self-guided walking holiday, you can make your own discoveries, take detours and spend more time at the sights that interest you the most. You can linger over a relaxing long picnic, or enjoy a chat with someone along the way, without the pressure of holding up a group. For guests seeking an authentic experience, a couple or person walking solo are often more approachable than a group of walkers. This makes it easier to get chatting to the locals in the pub or volunteers at a local experience along the way. Guided Walking Holidays A guided walking holiday is led by a professional guide, who takes care of everything and leads you along the route. They will be knowledgeable about the area, its culture and the sights along the way and will often have insider tips to share with you. Generally there will be multiple bookings of different people, brought together in a single group. This can be a great opportunity to meet new people and learn more about them, as you walk. This make it especially attractive to solo walkers, wanting someone to share the experience with them. However, group dynamics can sometimes lead to dissatisfaction and friction within the group. The group leader will decide on start times each day and will generally decide where and when you stop along the way. This is perfect for those that prefer to follow someone and allow them to take care of all the logistics along the wa Should I choose a Self Guided or Guided walking Holiday? So, which option is right for you? If you want a care-free, structured experience with the opportunity to meet new people, a guided walking tour may be best. If you like to be independent and prefer to have more control over your itinerary and set your own pace, a self-guided walking tour may be ideal. Regardless of your choice, a walking holiday is a great way to disconnect from the fast pace of daily life and explore, at a slower pace. With either choice, you will get some healthy exercise and be sure to have a memorable experien Self-guided walking holidays in the UK's National Forest We offer a range of self-guided walking holidays in and around the UK's National Forest. In the heart of England, the region is perfect for those seeking an easy walking holiday, or who don't want to walk too far each day. The landscape is varied and interesting, without being challenging. There's plenty to explore along the way, from castles and heritage homes to steam trains and glorious gardens. Unlike some walking holidays, you will never be far from civilisation, yet the walking is quiet and tranquil. Guests often remark on the sense of satisfaction and achievement that they feel from finding their way each day. However, there's peace of mind knowing that our self-guided walking holidays include detailed daily route guides, with turn by turn instructions and information about the route, as well as a list of our favourite places to eat and drink along the way. Hotel accommodation is arranged, every walking route is tried and tested and your luggage is transferred daily between accommodation. Whilst we're not personally setting the pace and guiding you, guests have the reassurance of knowing that we are only a phone call away, should anyone need a helping hand or have questions about their route. Choose your perfect self guided walking holiday We would love to help find your perfect walking holiday. View are range of walking holidays here. Alternatively, contact us on info@ebikeholiday.co.uk or on 01530 417482 to discuss your requirements.

We are delighted to have become Accessibility Champions, having recently completed Access for All UK training, through a programme delivered by Visit Peak District and Derbyshire and Accessible UK. We are the first company in the National Forest to have successfully completed the training. The training consisted of a series of interactive webinars on accessible tourism and has been designed to help tourism and hospitality businesses learn more about welcoming visitors with special requirements. Subjects covered included hearing and sight loss, autism and dementia, mobility impairment and accommodation needs. Led by Accessible UK founder, Gillian Scotford, the training provided participating businesses with practical tips on ways to help welcome visitors with additional access needs. Jo Dilley, Managing Director of Visit Peak District & Derbyshire, says: "We'd like to extend a huge congratulations to our new Accessibility Champions who are excellent ambassadors for accessible tourism and beacons of inspiration for many other local businesses to follow. “One in five of the UK population is disabled and the Accessibility Champions scheme offers a unique opportunity for businesses to gain a share of the £15.3 billion accessible tourism market, obtain loyal customers and, above all else, provide memorable experiences for visitors with additional access needs." Sue Jerham, Managing Director of National Forest EBikes said, “The Accessibility Champion training helped highlight some of the issues faced and ways that we can make our holidays in the National Forest accessible to more guests. We're a small business and already tailor routes and accommodation to suit specific requirements. The National Forest is less known than many tourism destinations and attractions are often much quieter. This could really suit guests that prefer to explore without too many distractions and too much hustle and bustle. We have been speaking to a local council about sensory walks and will now be working with local businesses to develop specific ideas. We hope to launch our first accessible holiday in 2023." About National Forest EBike Holidays National Forest EBike Holidays offers luxury, self-guided EBike and walking holidays in and around the National Forest region of the UK. Guests can start their holiday any day of the week, all year. The holidays are designed to encourage slow travel. We keep mileage low, making our EBike and walking holidays perfect for gentle adventurers and leaving plenty of time to connect with nature and explore the many sights and experiences along the way. We love signposting some of the fabulous local woodland experiences, including bee keeping, Forest Bathing and woodland crafts. We move guests' luggage between hotels, leaving them free to explore the region at their own pace and in their own private group. Our guests can expect fabulous accommodation each night. We select the best possible small luxury B&Bs, delightful country inns and small boutique hotels. Often our accommodation providers have their own green tourism accreditations and awards. All have a love of locally-sourced, seasonal food – it will be home-grown, reared or baked in many cases. Unlike many cycling and walking holidays, our routes are circular to limit the need for additional transportation. In most instances, there is always a local pub or restaurant for guests to enjoy a delightful evening meal, without needing to take a taxi. As a small family company, we specialise in offering guests a very personal service, with holidays tailored to suit guest's specific needs or interests. The National Forest region Straddling Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire, The National Forest is one of England's most exciting and ambitious regeneration projects. The area was once full of of coal mines, opencast and clay pits. The last 30 years has seen 200 square miles transformed from black to green, completely changing the landscape and lives of local people. Miners have become forest guardians and forest schools are common place for children. Some of the UK's most productive mines are now filled with trees and wildlife. The 9 millionth tree was planted in 2021 and the region has gone from less than 6% to over 20% tree coverage. Choose your perfect EBike or walking holiday We would love to help find your perfect walking or EBike holiday. Contact us on info@ebikeholiday.co.uk or on 01530 417482 to discuss your requirements.

You might have seen comedian and actor Johnny Vegas on tv recently, talking about the 2023 location for his unique glamping experience, Field of Dreams. This year, lucky glampers will enjoy the glorious setting of historic Melbourne Hall, in the picturesque Derbyshire town of Melbourne. There are eight stunning glamping options, including an old fire truck, Puma the helicopter and a boat called Mahala! Located on the edge of the town, Grade II listed Melbourne Hall is currently a family home and has been described as “one of the finest examples of a small English country house.” The gardens are open to the public on Wednesday and weekend afternoons, from Spring until late autumn, whilst the house is open on limited afternoons in summer. The most noted previous owner of Melbourne Hall was William Lamb, 2nd Viscount Melbourne. William was twice the English prime minister in the 1830's and 1840's. The Australian city of Melbourne was named in his honour in 1835. The gardens at Melbourne Hall Guests to Vegas' Field of Dreams will want to make time for a leisurely explore of the beautiful gardens surrounding Melbourne Hall. Designed by Rt. Hon Thomas Coke, the Vice Chamberlain to Queen Anne, with assistance from landscape designers George London and Henry Wise, these gardens are considered by experts to be one of the best surviving English gardens in the style of le Notre. Sweeping avenues, framed by old yew hedges, give open views to the surrounding countryside. Visitors will find a number of statues in the gardens. A large urn statue, on a crossroad of paths, is known as Four Seasons. It was created by Jan van Nost, and is believed to be a gift from Queen Anne. The most striking focal point in the garden is the Bird Cage arbour. This guilded wrought ironwork was created by Robert Bakewell and cost £120 to make. It is said that it made him famous but he was left penniless from the cost of manufacture. Robert Bakewell also created ironwork for Derby Cathedral and National Trust owned, Staunton Harold Church. In spring, the air on the west side of the gardens is filled with the scent of wild garlic. The herbaceous beds alongside the stream are a more recent addition to the gardens and are in full bloom throughout the summer. Melbourne Hall Courtyard Step into the courtyard of Melbourne Hall for a unique shopping experience. The courtyard features fabulous small shops, a cafe, pop-up coffee shop, and even a microbrewery. Whether you're looking for a warm drink or meal by the cozy wood burners in the winter or taking advantage of the outdoor seating in the sheltered courtyard on a warmer day, there's something for everyone. Wine merchants Pierre Hourlier will be happy to recommend the perfect bottle of wine to enjoy as you take in the sunset from your glamping home. Around Melbourne Hall Just behind Melbourne Hall, a gated drive leads to Melbourne Pool, a popular spot for all ages to stroll or watch the birds on the water. (keen birdwatchers will want to ensure they have their binoculars with them). Walk to the end of the Pool and you will be treated to stunning views of the church, on the other side of the water. Look up and you may even see a heron here, perched on the branches of a tree overlooking the lake. As you walk, you'll notice the magnificent yew hedges of Melbourne Hall. The benches surrounding the Pool are always a popular spot to enjoy a picnic. Opposite Melbourne Hall is the parish church of St Michael with St Mary's. Dating back to the 12th century, the church is Grade 1 listed and is considered one of the best examples of a Norman church. The flags of Australia and Melbourne, Victoria hang in the church, in recognition of the town's association with Melbourne, Australia. It's just a few minutes walk from Melbourne Hall into the heart of the town. Here' guests will find narrow streets and alleyways with a wide range of independent shops, cafes, pubs and restaurants to suit all tastes. Fresh local produce Guests planning to cook their own meals will find plenty of delicious fresh ingredients in and around Melbourne. The area was once home to over 150 market gardens and it's still possible to buy fabulous fresh seasonal produce from both FM Heath and Sons and F Jackson and Son. There's even a selection of home grown produce, with an honesty box, outside a cottage in the heart of the town. Meat eaters will want to enjoy a walk or cycle from Melbourne Hall to the award winning Tori and Ben's butcher's, on the edge of the town. We recommend enjoying an alfresco coffee here, before starting your return journey. Be sure to stop into Melbourne Deli, as you pass, for some mouthwatering cheeses and treats. A market takes place every Thursday, where you will find a range of fresh food from local producers. Stay at Jonny Vegas Field of Dreams as part of a walking or EBike holiday For a truly unique and memorable holiday adventure, include a 2 or 3 night stay at the Johnny Vegas Field of Dreams as part of a longer self-guided EBike cycling or walking holiday holiday, exploring the National Forest. Choose to relax and enjoy the stunning surroundings or discover more of the countryside on a circular walk or cycle ride. We will take care of all the arrangements, leaving you free to relax and enjoy your holiday. Contact us on info@ebikeholiday.co.uk or on 01530 417482 to discuss your requirements. About National Forest EBike Holidays Award winning National Forest EBike Holidays offers luxury, self-guided EBike and walking holidays in and around the National Forest region of the UK. Guests can start their holiday any day of the week, all year. The holidays are designed to encourage slow travel. We keep mileage low, making our EBike and walking holidays perfect for gentle adventurers and leaving plenty of time to connect with nature and explore the many sights and experiences along the way. We love signposting some of the fabulous local woodland experiences, including bee keeping, Forest Bathing and woodland crafts. We move guests' luggage between hotels, leaving them free to explore the region at their own pace and in their own private group. Our guests can expect fabulous accommodation each night. We select the best possible small luxury B&Bs, delightful country inns and small boutique hotels. Often our accommodation providers have their own green tourism accreditations and awards. All have a love of locally-sourced, seasonal food – it will be home-grown, reared or baked in many cases. Unlike many cycling and walking holidays, our routes are circular to limit the need for additional transportation. In most instances, there is always a local pub or restaurant for guests to enjoy a delightful evening meal, without needing to take a taxi. As a small family company, we specialise in offering guests a very personal service, with holidays tailored to suit guest's specific needs or interests. The National Forest region Straddling Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire, The National Forest is one of England's most exciting and ambitious regeneration projects. The area was once full of of coal mines, opencast and clay pits. The last 30 years has seen 200 square miles transformed from black to green, completely changing the landscape and lives of local people. Miners have become forest guardians and forest schools are common place for children. Some of the UK's most productive mines are now filled with trees and wildlife. The 9 millionth tree was planted in 2021 and the region has gone from less than 6% to over 20% tree coverage. Choose your perfect EBike or walking holiday We would love to help find your perfect walking or EBike holiday. Contact us on info@ebikeholiday.co.uk or on 01530 417482 to discuss your requirements.

As seen on the BBC's "Make it at Market" Programme If you're a fan of the BBC's Make it at Market tv programme, you may have been struck by the beautiful and serene backdrop of the show. The location of the programme is none other than the National Trust-owned Stoneywell Cottage. This Arts and Crafts inspired cottage is located in the rugged Charnwood Forest region of Leicestershire, and is considered to be one of the most important works of designer and builder Ernest Gimson. The picturesque cottage was built in 1898 -99, by Ernest Gimson, for his elder brother Sydney, who wanted a summer countryside bolthole for his family, away from the growing city of Leicester. Ernest Gimson (1864-1919) was a leading member of the Arts and Crafts movement. He is known for his simple, rustic designs, with an emphasis on craftsmanship, functionality, and use of local materials. His traditional designs were considered to be a reaction against the mass-produced, Victorian-era furniture that was prevalent at the time. Gimson's work was highly respected by his contemporaries and continues to be admired by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Nestled into the hillside, the cottage features multiple levels. The design is simple and rustic, featuring local materials such as Charnwood stone and oak. Inside there are rough finishes, steep staircases and exposed beams. The living area features a large chimney, with inbuilt seating and many of Gimson's original furniture and fittings can still be seen in Stoneywell Cottage today. The cottage also boasts a beautiful English country garden, where Gimson and his friends experimented with different plants and flowers. The garden is a perfect complement to the cottage, and a great example of the Arts and Crafts style, with a mix of wild and formal elements. In spring the surrounding woodland is full of bluebells and the acidic soil allows colourful rhododendron to thrive here. There are around 150 different varieties in the grounds, ensuring a long and spectacular display. In autumn, the hillside surrounding the cottage is ablaze with flowering heathers. Stoneywell Cottage is situated in the Charnwood Forest region of Leicestershire. The area is known for its rugged beauty and is characterised by rocky outcrops, heaths and moorlands. When designing the cottage, Ernest Gimson was keen to nestle the cottage into the surrounding landscape and to design around it. National Trust at Stoneywell In the 1930's Stoneywell was upgraded by Humphrey Gimson and the cottage was lived in by members of the family until 2012. Following a funding appeal, the National Trust acquired Stoneywell from the Gimson family in 2015. They have undertaken significant works to preserve the character and original features at Stoneywell, whilst also making it accessible to the public. The cottage is perfect for those interested in architecture, design, and gardening, and is a peaceful retreat for all visitors. However, please note that Stoneywell is a small site with limited opening hours, and advanced booking is essential. All visits begin from a car park a short distance from the cottage, and there are no refreshment facilities available at present. However, the gardens are the perfect place to enjoy a picnic on a sunny day. The Charnwood Forest Ancient Charnwood Forest is an area of outstanding natural beauty in Leicestershire. It is known for its diverse landscape, including rocky outcrops, heaths, and moorlands, as well as its ancient woodlands and rich wildlife. Walking and cycling are the perfect ways to admire the far reaching views and geology of this peaceful region in the heart of England. Choose your perfect EBike or walking holiday We would love to help find your perfect walking or EBike holiday. Contact us on info@ebikeholiday.co.uk or on 01530 417482 to discuss your requirements.

Want to gift a loved one something really special this Christmas? Why not wow them with an EBike cycling or walking holiday voucher, towards a holiday in 2023? It's the perfect special treat for someone special, who has everything. Even better - you could enjoy the holiday with them! Gift vouchers are available for any amount over £50 and can be personalised with your message. They can be used towards any walking or EBike holiday. Alternatively, surprise them by pre-arranging an EBike or walking holiday and we will provide an unpriced voucher with details of the chosen holiday. Responsible walking and cycling holidays As a Green Tourism Gold Award business and winners of Leicestershire's Best Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award, we take our commitment to sustainable tourism seriously. We therefore offer a 5% discount to all guests arriving by train for their holiday. We also donate £10 from each booking to the National Forest. Choose your perfect EBike or walking holiday We would love to help find your perfect walking or EBike holiday. To purchase a voucher of for more information contact us on info@ebikeholiday.co.uk or on 01530 417482

National Forest EBike Holidays was thrilled to be named best Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism business at the recent Leicestershire Promotions Go Leicestershire 2022 Tourism and Hospitality Awards. The annual awards recognise the achievements of the county's tourism businesses. The business specialises in gentle, self guided electric bike and walking holidays around the National Forest region. The holidays are aimed at guests that want a low mileage, easy walking or cycling holiday, with lots to explore and all their creature comforts, including daily luggage transfer between hotels. A 5% discount is offered to all guests arriving by train. The judging panel said, “Our judges agreed that it would be hard to find a more ethical, responsible and sustainable business. The business offers a low carbon, sustainable experience totally in keeping with their natural surroundings.” Sue Jerham, founder and Managing Director, commented, “we're over the moon that our efforts to promote sustainable cycling and walking holidays have been recognised in 2022. It's been a great year, as in addition to winning the Leicestershire award for Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism, we achieved a Gold Award from Green Tourism Business Scheme, earlier this year. Sustainable, responsible cycling and walking holidays “From the beginning, our ethos has been to put sustainable tourism at the heart of the business. The National Forest is an inspiring example of regeneration and sustainability and it's important to us that we reflect this within our business. We donate £10 for every booking toward the upkeep the National Forest. “We chose Riese and Mueller electric bikes for quality, comfort and sustainability, with Bosch motors for maximum service life. A range of bike frames ensures a safe and comfortable ride for everyone, including step-throughs for the less agile. We've introduced a saddle selection service to maximise comfort and make cycling more attractive to everyone. Tyres are Schwalbe, the first company to manufacture high performing recycled tyres. We use few consumables and are paper-free where possible. Free loan picnic rucksacks, with reusable cutlery and glasses, are available, to discourage plastic throwaways. “The National Forest is still undiscovered by mass tourism and we're proud to help showcase just how much there is to experience in the area. We curate our routes to ensure that guests explore as much of the region as possible. In addition to including known larger attractions, such as National Trust and English Heritage properties, our routes also visit many lesser known hidden gems along the way. These include secret walled gardens, sculptures hidden in the woodland and ruined priories. Guests leave inspired by how quickly an industrial landscape can be changed and amazed at how much there is to do in the area. “Mileage is kept low on both our electric bike and walking holidays, to encourage guests to travel slowly and enjoy meandering through the varied countryside. Guests stay at different accommodation each night, allowing them to discover as much of the region as possible. Holidays are circular to eliminate the need for taxis back to the car and our walking holiday routes take guests directly from hotel to hotel, without needing additional transport. All of our routes are within 30 minutes of home, which helps reduce our vehicle travel. We further minimise car miles by planning our luggage transfers and other daily business carefully. “A great night's sleep and comfortable accommodation is very important to our guests. We're lucky to operate in a region with some fabulous, award winning inns and B&Bs. We only select the best small luxurious B&Bs, hotels and cosy inns and we ask about their sustainable credentials. “Most of our guests share our love of small local businesses and enjoy discovering the many local shops, pubs and cafes. We highlight local food heroes and retail therapy opportunities in our daily route guides and also email a list of recommended places to eat before each holiday. The list includes details of cafes offering a discount for using your own thermal mug. Retail therapy is strongly encouraged and we're always delighted to collect larger items for our guests and deliver them with their luggage! Past purchases have ranged from a ornate hand blown glass lamp to an entire autumn wardrobe, snapped up at a local fashion show. Future Plans “Whilst our walking and EBike holidays have minimum emissions, we feel it's still important to develop a baseline measure of our carbon footprint. This will help to ensure we can identify areas to further improve. Once we have this measure in place, we intend to explore adding carbon labels to our different holiday options, enabling guests to know the carbon footprint of their holiday. We also plan to look at ways to encourage even more guests to arrive by train.” About National Forest EBike Holidays National Forest Ebike Holidays is an award winning, family business, offering luxury, self-guided EBike and walking holidays in and around the National Forest region of the UK. Guests can start their holiday any day of the week, all year. The holidays are designed to encourage slow travel. We keep mileage low, making our EBike and walking holidays perfect for gentle adventurers and leaving plenty of time to connect with nature and explore the many sights and experiences along the way. We love signposting some of the fabulous local woodland experiences, including bee keeping, Forest Bathing and woodland crafts. We move guests' luggage between hotels, leaving them free to explore the region at their own pace and in their own private group. Our guests can expect fabulous accommodation each night. We select the best possible small luxury B&Bs, delightful country inns and small boutique hotels. Often our accommodation providers have their own green tourism accreditations and awards. All have a love of locally-sourced, seasonal food – it will be home-grown, reared or baked in many cases. Unlike many cycling and walking holidays, our routes are circular to limit the need for additional transportation. In most instances, there is always a local pub or restaurant for guests to enjoy a delightful evening meal, without needing to take a taxi. As a small family company, we specialise in offering guests a very personal service, with holidays tailored to suit guest's specific needs or interests. We meet every guest and personalise holidays to suit individual guest requirements. And of course, we're on hand should a guest need a helping hand during their holiday. Location – We are centrally located in the UK's National Forest, which spans the counties of Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire. The region is easily reached by both train and car. The National Forest recently celebrated the planting of the 9 millionth tree – a true success story for regeneration. The National Forest region Straddling Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire, The National Forest is one of England's most exciting and ambitious regeneration projects. The area was once full of of coal mines, opencast and clay pits. The last 30 years has seen 200 square miles transformed from black to green, completely changing the landscape and lives of local people. Miners have become forest guardians and forest schools are common place for children. Some of the UK's most productive mines are now filled with trees and wildlife. The 9 millionth tree was planted in 2021 and the region has gone from less than 6% to over 20% tree coverage. Choose your perfect EBike or walking holiday We would love to help find your perfect walking or EBike holiday. Contact us on info@ebikeholiday.co.uk or on 01530 417482 to discuss your requirements.

We are delighted to have achieved a Gold Award, under the prestigious Green Tourism Business Scheme. Gold is the highest possible accolade and demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that our EBike and walking holidays promote responsible tourism. We are currently the only UK cycling holiday business to hold the Gold Award. A Commitment to sustainable, responsible tourism To qualify for the award, the business had to demonstrate a commitment to sustainability, reducing our carbon footprint, protecting the natural environment and supporting the local environment and community. Sue Jerham, Managing Director of National Forest EBikes said, “having lived in the area for nearly 35 years, we are passionate about the creation of the National Forest and the ways it has transformed the local landscape and economy. We love sharing this undiscovered part of the UK with our guests, but feel it is importsnt thst we encourage them to explore in a sustainable and responsible manner. We keep mileage low and encourage guests to take the time to enjoy the journey and explore along the way. One of the things that makes our holidays special is that many of our attractions are small and community run, such as Ashby Museum, Elford Community Gardens or Grace Dieu Priory. Visitors will often be the only people there midweek. Even glorious gardens, such as Melbourne Hall (the namesake for Melbourne, Australia and former seat of Victorian Prime Minister William Lamb) remain blissfully undiscovered by crowds and large coach parties. “The Green Tourism assessor looked at all of our initiatives to encourage responsible tourism. These include offering a 5% discount to guests arriving by train, favouring accommodation with a sustainable policy, donating towards the upkeep of the National Forest, ethical buying, such as tyres that can be recycled and encouraging guests to visit small, local businesses in the region. We even offer reusable picnic crockery so guests can enjoy a picnic, without using disposable plates and cutlery.” Green Tourism Report The report said: National Forest Ebike Holidays have done an excellent job in achieving the Green Tourism Gold award following on from their first GreenCheck. The team have displayed an excellent understanding of sustainability and awareness of opportunities and challenges associated with running a responsible business. National Ebike Holidays have scored well across the board and have excelled in the Health & Wellbeing, Destination, Awareness, Food & Drink and Experiences goals. The team have shown a commitment to continual improvement and a willingness to implement change where required. Our priorty areas to further improve will be additional ways we can impact and measure carbon footprint, energy and biodiversity. We will also continue to ask our guests for their suggestions and ideas. About National Forest EBike Holidays National Forest EBike Holidays offers luxury, self-guided EBike and walking holidays in and around the National Forest region of the UK. Guests can start their holiday any day of the week, all year. The holidays are designed to encourage slow travel. We keep mileage low, making our EBike and walking holidays perfect for gentle adventurers and leaving plenty of time to connect with nature and explore the many sights and experiences along the way. We love signposting some of the fabulous local woodland experiences, including bee keeping, Forest Bathing and woodland crafts. We move guests' luggage between hotels, leaving them free to explore the region at their own pace and in their own private group. Our guests can expect fabulous accommodation each night. We select the best possible small luxury B&Bs, delightful country inns and small boutique hotels. Often our accommodation providers have their own green tourism accreditations and awards. All have a love of locally-sourced, seasonal food – it will be home-grown, reared or baked in many cases. Unlike many cycling and walking holidays, our routes are circular to limit the need for additional transportation. In most instances, there is always a local pub or restaurant for guests to enjoy a delightful evening meal, without needing to take a taxi. As a small family company, we specialise in offering guests a very personal service, with holidays tailored to suit guest's specific needs or interests. The National Forest region Straddling Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire, The National Forest is one of England's most exciting and ambitious regeneration projects. The area was once full of of coal mines, opencast and clay pits. The last 30 years has seen 200 square miles transformed from black to green, completely changing the landscape and lives of local people. Miners have become forest guardians and forest schools are common place for children. Some of the UK's most productive mines are now filled with trees and wildlife. The 9 millionth tree was planted in 2021 and the region has gone from less than 6% to over 20% tree coverage. This is a region still undiscovered by mass tourism, yet full of fabulous treasures, such as Calke Abbey, The National Memorial Arboretum, National Brewery Museum, National Trust Stoneywell and Ashby Castle. It's perfect for people wanting to explore somewhere new, that's full of things to see and experience. The region is surrounded by stations offering excellent access from across the country – most fitting for a region that was at the birth of rail travel! Choose your perfect EBike or walking holiday We would love to help find your perfect walking or EBike holiday. Contact us on info@ebikeholiday.co.uk or on 01530 417482 to discuss your requirements.

New for 2021, we are delighted to announce the launch of gentle self-guided walking holidays in and around the UK's National Forest. Owner, Sue Jerham, says, “we both love walking, as well as cycling. The National Forest area straddles Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire and is perfect for anyone seeking a gentle walking holiday in England, away from the crowds. The National Forest area benefits from glorious countryside and plenty to see and do, whilst still remaining undiscovered by mass tourism.” “Our self-guided walking holidays are perfect for fans of slow travel, who want to escape the everyday and enjoy the peaceful countryside, at their own pace. Daily mileages are kept low, allowing plenty of time to explore the many things to see and do along the way. Many of the attractions are outdoors and include 2 National Trust properties, 2 heritage steam railways, The National Brewery Museum, The National Memorial Arboretum, the Battle of Bosworth Heritage Centre, a castle and gorgeous gardens. There really is something for everyone. Nature lovers will find plenty of wildlife along the way. It's very special when you come across wild deer in the woodland or a kingfisher by a canal or river. We're even expecting beavers to be introduced to a Nature Reserve in the Trent Valley, later this year. “One of the things we love about walking in the area, is the huge variety in the countryside. We can walk through beautiful woodland, new plantations, across farmland and through glorious National Trust parkland, all in one morning. The next day we might walk along a towpath to a canalside cafe or follow a heritage trail, where once there were coal mines and open cast. There are plenty of places for a lazy picnic along the way, as well as some lovely outdoor cafes.” 2021 Walking Holidays Live The first walking holidays are now live on the website, with more in the planning. Walking holiday guests can expect the same high levels of service as EBike holiday guests, with bespoke routes, daily luggage transfer, hand picked accommodation and detailed route guides to follow each day. And of course, we are on hand locally, should guests need additional support along the way. Bespoke walking holidays The walking holidays range from 2 to 7 nights and can start any day of the week. “Our walking holidays are self guided and you only travel with your own private group.” This means that you can walk at your own pace, stopping as and when you wish along the way. There are lots of options to adapt the mileage and routes to suit individual requirements.” We can also arrange for walking holidays to start from a train station for guests wishing to enjoy a car-free holiday. National Forest Experiences Walking holiday guests also have the opportunity to incorporate a wide range of experiences whilst on holiday in the National Forest. Woodland craft courses, forest skills, bee keeping, traditional crafts, forest bathing and canoeing are just some of the many experiences available in the region. Choose your perfect walking holiday We would love to help find your perfect walking holiday. Contact us on info@ebikeholiday.co.uk or on 01530 417482 to discuss your requirements.

2020 is certainly proving to be different! Spring saw perfect weather for a relaxing EBike cycling holiday – and the UK in Lockdown! But fear not, you can now enjoy a relaxing cycling holiday exploring in and around the National Forest. We're thrilled by the strong demand and everything is in place for a fun EBike holiday. Our favourite accommodation providers, attractions and cafes are open and ready to welcome you. There's even a wonderful new brewery beer garden to discover, with fabulous views of the Derbyshire countryside and a BBQ with meat sourced from the neighbouring farm. As we open, we want our guests to feel confident that we have taken all possible actions and precautions to minimise the risks of exposure to or contraction of COVID19 during your holiday. This blog answers questions asked by guests and provides more information on what to expect on your 2020 EBike cycling holiday in the National Forest. You will also find more detail on our COVID 19 2020 Cycling Holidays page on our website. And of course, we're always here to answer any specific questions. How safe is a cycling holiday? Keeping active and healthy is more important than ever. Cycling has been recommended by governments worldwide, as an excellent mode of transport and exercise. The potential risk of transmission is much lower than indoors and social distancing is easy on a cycling holiday. All of our EBike cycling holidays are self-guided, meaning that you only cycle in your own group, rather than with others. Cycle through the beautiful English countryside at your own pace and discover a region that remains largely undiscovered by mass tourism, whilst also benefiting from some exercise and lots of fresh air. Typically, we use very comfortable small B&Bs and hotels. There will be few, if any, other guests and everyone has their own en suite facilities. Our accommodation providers are selected for their high levels of comfort and hygiene. They will have attained the Visit England or similar COVID 19 Standard. For guests preferring self-catering, we have some fabulous options available. Please ask for more information. What is open? Many of the attractions in the National Forest area are outdoors, with plenty of space to ensure that social distancing is easy. Visitors can enjoy glorious gardens, castles, mills, canals, marinas, parkland, nature and heritage. Advanced booking is required for some attractions. The region also has some fabulous smaller attractions, where often you will share the space with just a handful of other guests. A small number of attractions, such as the the heritage steam railways, are finalising their plans and procedures and expect to open very shortly. Experiences such as bee keeping, wood turning, rural crafts, canoeing and paddle boarding are all welcoming visitors again and can be added to your EBike cycling holiday. The area is full of wonderful cafes, pubs and restaurants with large outdoor areas, utilised for much of the year. We love an alfresco coffee or lunch and enjoying an outside coffee on a cycle ride or walk is the norm here. Naturally, we share all our favourites with our guests! Expect canal-side beers and woodland coffees! Bucking the trend, we are delighted to even have a new brewery beer garden to enjoy in the National Forest, with the most fabulous views. We're equally excited by a new takeaway ice cream parlour, situated on a barge on the beautiful Ashby Canal, close to the Battle of Bosworth Heritage Centre. The National Forest region has some lovely small market towns and retail attractions, where much of the retail is small independent shops. The little city of Lichfield is mainly pedestrianised and visitors will discover an excellent choice of independent shops, cafes and restaurants, spilling out onto traffic free streets around the cathedral. Visitors to the marinas at Mercia and Barton under Needwood will find a range of shops, cafes and bars to explore, with wide boardwalks around the canal marina. Courtyard craft centres in the region are also welcoming back guests looking for artisan treats to take home. What measures have you taken to keep guests safe? Looking after our guests is our number one concern and we have done everything possible to minimise potential risks caused by COVID19. Detailed information is available on our website and guests can be confident that we have considered their safety throughout their cycling holiday. We have attained the Visit England, “Good to Go” tourism industry standard mark. The standard gives tourism businesses a framework to use as they welcome back guests. To achieve this standard, we put in place all necessary measures to meet government and industry COVID-19 guidelines, inducing a thorough COVID 19 Risk Assessment and processes to maintain cleanliness and aid social distancing. We have looked at all parts of your cycling holiday journey, from before your arrive, to the point of departure and identified potential areas of risk. We have then considered what actions we can take, or ask you to take, to minimise risk. We confess to having a little bit of head start when it comes to cleaning protocols. I worked for a leading manufacturer of professional cleaning products, including Food products for over 25 years. Alan was also involved in the chemical cleaning industry for over 30 years. Not only do we have access to professional products, we also fully understand the methods and protocols required to clean a potentially contaminated surface. As part of our enhanced cleaning protocol: bikes will be disinfected before and after each holiday. Touch-points will be re-cleaned when the bike is removed from the van at handover and before being loaded back into the van locks and panniers will be left 48 hours before reuse our van will be sanitised before and after each luggage transfer, following standard protocol guests will be provided with an aerosol cleaning product to clean touch-points along the way and when taking bikes into guest accommodation. GPS screens will be cleaned with a suitable product Good hand hygiene will always be practiced, including the use of a professional grade hand sanitiser, when soap and water is unavailable. Guests asked to bring hand sanitiser to use along the way, as required. For the well being of our guests, accommodation providers, ourselves and other guests, we will be asking you to declare yourself fit to travel, before your cycling holiday. You will then be asked to monitor your health during your cycling holiday and to let ourselves and the accommodation provider know if you fall ill. Much of our wonderful accommodation is small independently owned B&Bs and hotels, run by passionate owners. The small size of the accommodation means that there will be less people working and staying in the accommodation, thus reducing the chances of transmission. We're ensuring that are accommodation providers have the Visit England "Good to Go" or similar standard in place and are ready to welcome guests safely. What do I need to bring on my cycling holiday? As always, our EBike cycling holiday prices include EBike hire, panniers and locks. This summer, we are asking guests to bring their own helmet if required and own water bottle. We also recommend that guests bring hand sanitiser to clean hands whilst out and about and don't forget to bring a selection of appropriate face coverings with you, for use in shops and other venues where this might be a condition of entry. Will the National Forest be busy? One of the many delights of the National Forest region is that it remains undiscovered by mass tourism. Unlike some UK regions, most of the countryside is extremely peaceful. Even large, well known attractions, such as the National Memorial Arboretum, have plenty of space to escape to, making special distancing easy. A few hot spots may be a little busier on a sunny weekend day. But don't worry – we know all the secret hidden treasures, which you can often enjoy all to yourself! Dry summer days are just perfect for picnics in the woodland or along side a river or canal. Pick up some delicious local produce from one of the villages or small market towns and enjoy a lovely picnic lunch. Your overnight stays will be at small B&Bs or hotels, in or close to one of the unspoiled market towns in the region. They all offer a choice of safe and delicious places to enjoy a drink and dinner, after your cycling adventures. Book your perfect EBike cycling holiday We would love to help find your perfect electric bike holiday and still have some availability for summer 2020. Choose from one of our EBike cycling holidays or contact us on info@ebikeholiday.co.uk or 01530 417482 to discuss your specific requirements. #UKcyclingholiday #EBikeholiday #EBikecyclingholiday #NationalForest