Our story

About HF Holidays

Walking holidays since 1913

The HF Holidays story starts with one man. In the late 19th century, country pastor turned social innovator Thomas Arthur Leonard, OBE sought to improve the lives of the factory workers. He offered them walking holidays as an alternative to the annual trend of spending a week at the seaside.

He founded the Co-operative Holiday Association in 1893 before establishing the Holiday Fellowship, now HF Holidays, in 1913.

He was also heavily involved in setting up the Youth Hostel Association, National Trust, and Ramblers Association.

On his memorial plaque on Cat Bells in the Lake District, he’s hailed as the "Father of the Open-Air Movement in this Country". And whilst, perhaps, not as recognised as other boundary-breaking holidaymaking luminaries, he still ranks as our hero.

Creating community, connection belonging through meaningful experiences

Today we are a 40,000-member-strong co-operative inspiring friendship, fun and an active enjoyment of the great outdoors

HF Holidays is proud to be a co-operative organisation committed to making the great outdoors accessible to all. Driven by a passion for the countryside and a desire to share its wonders with everyone, we believe walking together can boost both mental and physical health, foster long-lasting friendships, and create a strong sense of community.   

It takes every single one of our 40,000 loyal members, 500-strong team of employees, and over 600 volunteer leaders to make our holidays happen. Fuelled by an unwavering commitment to our mission statement, we work together to help over 55,000 guests enjoy fulfilling walking breaks and activity holidays every year. 

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY