From world-class tournaments to quirky contests, Britain adores its sports. Rugby, football, bog-snorkelling, cheese rolling: we embrace it all, hosting epic events year-round. But don’t just watch from the sidelines: get stuck in! Take your pick from water sports, outdoor adventures and active things to do: how will you discover Britain’s sporty side?
An adventure and sport showcase
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
Conquer a challenging hike up Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Wales’ highest mountain.
On a clear day, you can see Ireland from the summit and take in rare wildlife species such as Lili’r Wyddfa (the Snowdon Lily) in this designated National Nature Reserve.
Ben Nevis
Welcome to the highest mountain in Scotland. Sheer catnip for hikers, Ben Nevis’s summit has spectacular views of the Grampian range. It was once a volcano, and the rock at its peak still bears traces of explosions: there are two main routes to the top, of varying difficulties.
Brighton i360
Take flight on the world’s tallest moving observation tower. This is one smooth, spectacular ride: you’ll glide up to 450ft (137 metres) in a futuristic glass viewing pod, with breath-taking views of the city and coast.
Royal Ascot
This world-famous horse-racing event in June heralds the start of the summer social calendar. You are guaranteed to spot royalty over the week and note, there is a strict dress code depending on which of the enclosures you choose to watch the races from. Royal Ascot takes place in Ascot Racecourse, just outside of Windsor. And absolutely don’t forget your hat - it’s part of the culture here.
Football in Manchester
Manchester is the world-famous home of football – so why not go behind-the-scenes at its iconic stadiums? Both Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium and Manchester United’s Old Trafford offer guided tours of their grounds, and maybe you’ll even catch a match too.
Why Britain's best for adventure and sport
Britain’s sporting calendar is the envy of the world. From Premier League football matches in cutting-edge stadiums and mighty tennis on Wimbledon’s hallowed courts, to the Royal Ascot horse races, Six Nations rugby and Championship golf – there’s always an epic match or contest to enjoy. For legendary boating, head to Henley’s famous Regatta; for top-notch cricket, look to London’s Lord’s.
While catching a match or tournament is always a thrill, why not venture behind the scenes on a guided stadium tour? They’re full of surprises: from fine dining at Emirates Stadium’s Woolwich restaurant, to Tottenham Hotspur’s white-knuckle ‘Dare Skywalk’ – which offers a bird’s-eye view of the capital.
Some of our most hotly-contested trophies are unique to Britain: maybe you’ll head to Gloucestershire for Cooper’s Chase Cheese Rolling, or brave the murky waters of Wales’s World Bog Snorkelling Championships? Meanwhile, our coastlines, countryside and waterways are catnip for adventurous souls, with options for every ability. Wild swimming in the Lake District, moonlit kayaking through London, coasteering in Pembrokeshire, surfing at The Wave in Bristol: it’s all here for the taking.
Whether you’re cheering from the crowds or embracing a new challenge, here’s how to explore Britain like a champion.
Where to find the best sports and adventure experiences
Top sporting experiences
Top sporting destinations
Featured sports all year around
Rugby heroes
The Six Nations Championships sees Europe’s top rugby teams battle head-to-head every spring. Matches are held all over Britain, so which side will you choose?
Catch a match at the Six Nations
Making waves
Whether you’re kayaking on the River Wye, coasteering in Pembrokeshire or boating on Norfolk’s Broads – summer is the perfect season for making a splash.
Plan your trip to Cotswolds Water Park
Highland fling
For centuries, the Highland Games have celebrated Scottish heritage with contests such as the tug o’ war and hammer throw. Braemar’s event, in September, is one of the best.
Learn more about the Highland Games
Go below
When the weather cools, head into Snowdonia’s Zip World Slate Caverns, to discover underground zip lines, via ferrata, rope bridges, thrilling tightropes and more…
Explore Zip World Slate Caverns