Get set, and go! The best UK sporting getaways

In a nation known for its rich sporting heritage, there's no denying the fervent passion that Brits have for all things sports-related. From the graceful elegance of a Wimbledon final to the energetic excitement for the Olympics, sport is ingrained in the fabric of British culture.

The good news is, there's no shortage of ways to indulge your passion for sport while exploring the beauty of the British countryside. Think cycling along scenic trails, serving up some aces on a tennis court or even embracing the tranquillity of a morning row along the Thames. But in a world where the allure of a staycation often beckons, is it possible to maintain an active lifestyle while enjoying the indulgence of a luxury British hotel? The answer, quite simply, is yes – and the new PoB Breaks sporting getaways are here to prove it. So, however you get your active fix, there's never been a better time to get out and get moving.

Ahead of an exhilarating summer of sport, Get Set, and Go! with PoB Hotels invites you to try your hand at a curated PoB Break, or to plan your own sports-themed break, inspired by Britain’s most loved athletic pursuits. Follow in a true Olympian’s footsteps with Victoria Pendleton’s bespoke itinerary, perfect your serve at tennis courts across the UK, or keep the wheels turning with a cycling adventure around the Sussex countryside. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or a newcomer to the sporting scene, there's something for everyone in this selection of sports-themed getaways.

Let’s dive into PoB Hotels’ new sporting getaways, now available around the UK…

Personally crafted by double-Gold-medallist Victoria Pendleton, this sporting getaway captures both sports for which Victoria is known best and pairs it with the charming beauty of the British countryside.

You will begin your journey at The Painswick in the Cotswolds, a picture-perfect country house boasting boutique bedrooms and delicious dining, where you’ll embark on an off-road trail cycling excursion through the picturesque countryside. Victoria, a former Olympic cycling champion, spent countless hours honing her skills on varying terrains, much like the ones you'll explore. As you pedal through the lush landscapes, imagine yourself following in her tyre tracks, striving for greatness with every turn of the pedal. While you’re here, visit Painswick Rococo Garden, a beautiful valley of flora and fauna perfect for snapping stunning photos and stretching your legs following a day of cycling.

After a day of adventure, retreat to the luxurious Calcot Hotel & Spa for some well-deserved relaxation. Victoria knows the importance of recovery, and Calcot allows you to do it in style; think Cotswold comfort food and a luxury spa with all of the bells and whistles, including a state-of-the-art fitness space, an impossibly luxurious treatment menu, and a fireside outdoor hot tub. And, if you’re still in the mood for a bike ride, the hotel offers complimentary bicycle use and organised cycling tours.

After winning gold at London 2012, Victoria retired from professional cycling and redirected her focus to horse riding, a sport she quickly grew passionate about. In 2015, she made her competitive debut, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her sporting journey. Your adventure continues with a short journey to Lucknam Park, one of the best riding hotels in the UK, renowned for its exceptional equestrian experiences: adult group rides and even a children’s pony trail for the little ones. With equestrian centre experiences, bicycle use and a tennis court on-site, active travellers will find no shortage of activities at this restored Palladian manor. Located just outside Bath, you can explore the stunning countryside on horseback before heading into the historic city for kayaking along the River Avon.

Next up, time for a rest day at The Royal Crescent, a luxury Georgian hotel and spa nestled amongst the iconic sweeping street in the heart of Bath city centre. Each room here is individually designed, combining modern touches with impressive historical features, the perfect place to rest up and regroup after a day of activities. Bath is the ultimate wellness destination and is among the few locations in the UK where you can enjoy the benefits of a natural hot spring. Whether you’re taking a breath of fresh air on a countryside walk, whiling away a few hours in one of the many independent cafés, or watching some live sport or theatre, some time in the spa capital of the UK is sure to leave you raring to go for your next activity.

To conclude the trip, your sports break will lead you to The Relais Henley, a boutique riverside hotel boasting rich history and classically British hospitality, where you'll immerse yourself in the quintessentially British sport of rowing. Nestled along the renowned route of the Thames, this experience offers more than just physical activity; it's an opportunity to connect with the timeless tradition of rowing while surrounded by stunning scenery.

Attention, Wimbledon fans! If you fancy an ace of a journey where you'll have the chance to play on tennis courts spanning from Cornwall to Scotland, this one’s for you. This isn't just any sporting getaway; it's designed to be a longer, leisurely journey, perfect for slow travel and delving deeper into the British Isles... However, if you're short on time, you may choose to use it as bucket-list inspiration to craft your very own tennis-inspired break.

Starting off on the Cornish coast, where dramatic headlands and picturesque coves await, stay at The Nare, a country house by the sea. With stunning seaside views and a tennis coach on speed dial, their all-weather En Tous Cas court doesn’t come to play. Here you can work on your backhand while enjoying the fresh sea breeze, or for those seeking a challenge, the coach can tailor sessions to your skill level, helping you refine your technique or learn new skills.

As you bid farewell to the coast, head north to the scenic South Downs, breaking up your journey with a stay at Bovey Castle on the edge of Dartmoor. As well as the many activities available, including falconry and fly fishing, don't forget to make time for tennis.

Swapping Dartmoor for the downs, plan a visit to the South Downs Way, offering a 100-mile path for hikers and bikers. At Park House Hotel in Midhurst, you can indulge in a game or two on their championship tennis courts, maintained by a dedicated team of gardeners. If you’re in need of a de-stress, you can break a sweat in the fully-equipped gym, or indulge in a treatment or two from the spa menu.

Now, it's time to head north as you warm up for a very special final tournament. Passing through Britain's heartland and Rutland Water, where the shimmering reservoir takes centre stage, take a break at Hambleton Hall for enchanting views and Michelin-starred cuisine.

From Hambleton, make your way to Dunblane, Scotland, where Andy Murray's hotel, Cromlix, awaits. The outdoor court here is painted in Wimbledon's iconic purple and green, and a professional coach is available for private or group lessons. Plus, you might even catch one of Judy Murray's pickleball clinics; a combination of tennis, ping pong, and badminton!

With stunning scenery, challenging routes, and luxurious accommodations along the way, the Sussex break is the perfect choice for cyclists looking to explore the best of what the UK has to offer. Designed to challenge cyclists of all abilities, this sporting getaway spans flat coastal paths and hilly South Downs routes and is a journey that promises breathtaking scenery and invigorating rides.

Kicking off in the picturesque county of West Sussex, with its rolling hills, verdant countryside, and charming villages, stay at the luxurious Ockenden Manor Hotel & Spa. Here you’ll find an Elizabethan house with an outstanding spa, award-winning restaurant, and glorious views towards Cuckfield Park and the South Downs. After a night of luxury, board your bike and warm up your legs on the picturesque routes surrounding this historic property, before taking on the cyclist’s paradise: the South Downs Way, a 100-mile path through some of England's most stunning landscapes. As you pedal along this scenic route, you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in nature and conquer challenging terrain. Along the way, pass Bramber Castle for a spot of English heritage, before kicking off your cycling shoes at Bailiffscourt Hotel & Spa for an evening of contemporary dining, Medieval-style hotel rooms and warm hospitality.

For the final leg of your journey, cycle to Park House Hotel in Midhurst, where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest in luxurious surroundings. Take advantage of the hotel's facilities, including its championship tennis courts and spa, to unwind after a day on wheels.

But the adventure doesn't stop there. Your final destination is stylish London retreat The Hari, where you can recharge your batteries after your cycling escapades. Here, swap countryside paths for city cycling with the hotel's very own bikes, or opt for a more relaxed workout on the Peloton. If you're craving a touch of indulgence, visit the hotel's neighbourhood Italian restaurant to refuel after a thrilling few days.

Fancy tailor-making your own itinerary or finding the perfect hotel pairing for your sporting fix? PoB Hotels partners with Routescape to offer tailored break planning, ensuring that every aspect of your journey is perfectly personalised to your preferences.

Or, if you’re feeling inspired by the upcoming summer Olympics and want to try your hand at one of Britain’s most beloved sports - whether it's rowing, sailing, equestrian, cycling, or tennis - PoB Hotels has carefully selected a range of the finest sporting hotels for you to meet your match. Experience the thrill of your favourite sport, while enjoying all that a luxury British staycation has to offer.