The only time I tried fly-fishing I finished up with soaked nether regions (leaky waders) and a tree-tangled line.
I caught nothing. But despite my humiliations it’s something I’d quite like to have another crack at. I can see the attraction in spending a sunny day in glorious surroundings splashing around and landing a whopping great salmon for dinner.
An opportunity to do just that arises at Ballathie House, a grand Scottish country house hotel set on the banks of the Tay in Perthshire. Until March 30 it offers an attractively-priced fly-fishing break which includes a day on the river with a boat and a ghillie.
Anglers also get a night’s accommodation with breakfast and dinner in the award-winning restaurant. The cost is £139 per person sharing.
Once the terrible storms and flooding ends – and surely things must improve soon? – I imagine there’ll be a rush to the country to enjoy an activity break in the spring sunshine.
A relaxing way to see more of the wonderful Derbyshire Peak District is by horseback and Losehill House has teamed up with a local equestrian centre to provide two days of riding. All abilities are catered for, with gentle trekking for novices and more adventurous fun for the experienced.
Located in the heart of the National Park, Losehill includes dinner, room and breakfast for two nights in a package priced from £350 per person.
Alternatively, make your break go with a bang on a one-day country sports escape at Brockencote Hall, set in the Worcestershire countryside on the edge of the pretty village of Chaddesley Corbett.
Guests can blast away with a shotgun at 30 clay pigeons in the morning and, after a soup and sandwich lunch, try rifle shooting and archery. An overnight stay with breakfast and dinner in the AA three-rosette restaurant is included in the price of £355 per person.
