HF Holidays

Who is HF Holidays?

HF Holidays are all about activities, from cooking in Puglia to painting in the Peak District, or even trekking in Peru. But the travel company’s bread and butter is its guided walking holidays throughout the UK – it even has 18 of its own country houses. When it comes to booking a break, either choose your holiday from the selection online or speak to one of the travel team.

Which? verdict

A top choice for guided group walking and activity holidays, and a Which? Recommended Provider for 2020.

HF Holidays customer ratings

If you want to see how HF Holidays measures up to its rivals, read our best and worst escorted tours page.

What's HF Holidays like?

Specialising in small-group guided walking holidays, this professional outfit – with 100 years’ experience – offers everything from a gentle amble to more challenging mountain treks. For those looking for something a little different, there are special-interest holidays – suitable for painters, bridge lovers and musicians – with plenty of sightseeing and wildlife watching thrown in.

This year, HF Holidays has managed to stroll away with a fantastic 89% customer score in our survey of escorted tour providers, sitting at the top of the table. The company was also scored  the full five stars for its customer service and the organisation of its holidays. 

Customers liked that it takes the walking itineraries seriously, providing three difficulty grades and multiple leaders to support its groups. The guides themselves were also praised as ‘exceptional’, ‘experienced’ and ‘friendly’. But, it wasn’t just the walks that pleased travellers. After a long day out on the hills, several people told us they enjoyed the evening entertainment and ‘superb’ hotels.

All round, customers are very satisfied: ‘HF is always well organised, has varied walks, great food (almost too much food), good guides and good walks in beautiful locations.’ Another enthused that their holiday had ‘exceeded expectations’. And at £128 a day, on average, with everything included, it’s very reasonably priced too.

Did HF Holidays refund customers during the coronavirus crisis?

Early on, HF Holidays was issuing credit notes that could not be exchanged for cash until 21 March 2021. While many of its loyal customers were happy to redeem this against a future holiday, others were furious to be denied a full refund. When we contacted HF Holidays, it admitted to poor communication and has promised to honour all refund requests as well as offering flexible risk-free future bookings.

Should I book with HF Holidays?

Travellers were very impressed by HF Holidays’ dedicated and well-organised approach to its walking itineraries. But it’s the tour provider’s excellent service and accommodation which ensures an all-round enjoyable trip. If you’re looking for a serious walking holiday, with some home comforts thrown in, HF Holidays is an excellent choice.