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Hiking in United Kingdom

Hikes in United Kingdom

City walking
Hikes/United Kingdom

The United Kingdom has long been regarded as one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, offering historic cities, beautiful castles, quaint villages, and some really spectacular natural attractions. This beautiful country also has a lot to offer in terms of adventure travel, with more and more people coming to the UK each year to experience its magnificent mountains, valleys, and coastline.

The United Kingdom may be a small country, but it certainly packs a punch when it comes to outdoor activities! This small collection of islands offers a whole host of amazing things to do, from hiking and backpacking to climbing, scrambling, and cycling.

The UK is made up of four nations, England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, each with its own particular charm. Rugged Scotland has much to offer hikers and backpackers, with some of the highest mountains in the UK, and many multi-day backpacking treks, while England is a hub for cycling and road biking, in addition to boasting some fascinating city walks. Climbers flock to Wales and Northern Ireland every year to take advantage of the beautiful mountains and coastal cliffs.

To help you plan your next adventure holiday to the United Kingdom, we’ve put together all the information you’ll need. You’ll find helpful tips, recommendations for places to stay and visit, and our guide to all the best walks and adventure activities in the UK.

15 Greatest Hikes in the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom is perhaps one of the most idyllic settings for a walk, with rolling green hills, picturesque ponds and charming, quiet villages. Whether you’re looking for something short and sweet, or long and challenging, we’ve got you covered on your next adventure through the U.K. countryside.

  • Ravenscar and Robin Hood’s Bay: This incredible hike takes you from the tip of the Ravenscar cliffs to the charming town of Robin Hood’s Bay. With incredible views from start to end, follow the loop back to discover the historic old Scarborough-Whitby railway.
  • Scafell Pike: Walk along the road less travelled to explore the highest peak in England--Scafell Pike. This trail is decidedly more pretty than the popular Wasdale Head hike and far less crowded.
  • The Great Ridge and Win Hill: Considered the most walked ridge line in England, this hike makes all the bucket lists for a reason. It connects some of the most famed summits in the region, Lose Hill (476 m) and Mam Tor (517 m), while also conquering Win Hill.
  • Hole of Horcum: Featuring the already impressive Hole of Horcum, this walk is extra special as you hike through the magical moorlands and pass through the charming town of Levisham.
  • Mam Tor: This easy, circular route is perfect for families with young children and offers easy access to the Peak District’s most iconic view. At the top of the ascent, lookout over Vale of Edale, Peveril Castle and the Hope Valley for stunning landscapes.
  • Helvellyn Walk: This walk remains a classic and for good reason. This challenging trail takes in some of the most beautiful sections of England’s Lake District and the scenic town of Glenridding—which looks straight out of a postcard.
  • Kinder Scout: Prepare for an epic adventure on this hike conquering the most difficult terrain of the Dark Peak with peaty trails, craggy peaks and deep cloughs.
  • Ben Venue Walk from Loch Achray: The Ben Venue Walk tops our list as one of the best hikes out there! With exceptional stunning views across Scotland’s Loch Katrine, Ben Lomond and beyond, this hike should go to the top of your bucket list.
  • The Great Trossachs Path 1: This section of the famed Great Trossachs Path covers exceptional viewpoints over Loch Lomond to Trossachs Pier at the head of Loch Katrine. Pop into the local tea shop or unwind at the rustic Stronachlachar Lodge at the mid-way point in your two-day journey.
  • Ben Lomond: While an extremely popular mountain, we recommend taking the less popular route for the descent, which makes for an interesting return from the summit and a much quieter hike.
  • Loch Venachar Walk: Head out on this long, but relatively flat trail to take in the perimeter of Loch Venachar. Enjoy beautiful views of the waterfront and surrounding mountains as you walk through the countryside.
  • Dovedale: Enjoy a variety of quirky oddities on this Dovedale hike, as you wander past unique limestone features, like Lover's Leap, Tissington Spires and Dove Holes. Then, summit Bailey Hill for impressive views.
  • Snowdon Horseshoe: Be forewarned, this hike is best left to experienced hikers. Take in the incredible views of Crib Goch ridge—considered one of the best in Whales—for a memorable hike. Come prepared for crazy winds and snowy conditions at times.
  • CWM Idwal Walk: This short, but steep hike tempts with the promise of a stunning lake and multiple waterfalls just beyond the peak. Plus, there is a shop for a sweet treat to enjoy at the end of the trail.
  • Barmouth Panorama Hike: Be dazzled by panoramic views from the tip top of Barmouth on this spectacular hike. Lookout over the Afon Mawddach estuary, up and down the Welsh coast, and out to Cardigan Bay from the top of the ridge.

When is the Best Time to Hike in the United Kingdom

The summer is a particularly fantastic time to hike in the United Kingdom, with the most amount of days promising sunshine and warmth. As a bonus, it never gets overly hot in the U.K. throughout the summer, so you don’t have to worry about heat exhaustion or planning the timing of your hike just right. The spring also offers pleasant weather, but be prepared with an umbrella and wellies in the case it rains (which it often does!).

Best Regions to Hike in the United Kingdom

There is no shortage of breathtaking spots to hike across the United Kingdom. With multiple countries under one umbrella, you’re sure to be delighted with the options for an adventurous hiking holiday. In England, discover the natural beauty of Chiltern Hills, the famed pools of the Lake District, the stunning, rugged landscape of the North York Moors, the rolling, unexpected hills of South Downs, or the oldest national park in the U.K.--the Peak District. In Scotland, the gorgeous Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park awaits exploration. And in Wales, the magic of hiking in Snowdonia continues to delight hikers each year.

Other Activities in the United Kingdom

While most don’t first and foremost think of the United Kingdom as an outdoor adventure paradise, let us assure you, they’re wrong. The U.K. offers a fantastic vacation to those seeking epic hiking adventures, as well as fascinating and historic city walks. It’s also revered by cyclists to be one of the best and most beautiful destinations for a cycling holiday, where you’ll work up a sweat peddling from pub to pub. For more remote adventures, there are plenty of options for mountain biking, trekking and climbing--regardless of skill level.

United Kingdom's Adventure Tours

If you’d rather skip the headache of planning your own trip, why not let 10Adventures help? With our wide-range of tours in the United Kingdom, check out England or Scotland for fantastic options. All you have to do is pack your bag—the rest is taken care of! From walking the Cotswold Way in its entirety to cycling the Scottish Isles of Arran, Islay, and Jura, our 10Adventure tour options are guaranteed to be epic and worry-free.

How to Plan a Trip to the United Kingdom

Ready to pack your bags and hit the trails across the United Kingdom? We’ve got you covered with our complete, local guides! From the Chiltern Hills, to the Lake District, to North York Moors National Park, to South Downs National Park, to the Peak District, to Loch Lomond & the Trossachs National Park, to Snowdonia—we took out all the guesswork, leaving more time for hitting the trails.

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Displaying 20 of 1884 routes

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Snowdonia

Snowdon Horseshoe

This ridge hike is not for inexperienced hill walkers or those afraid of heights. Crib Goch is a phenomenal ridgeline - one of the best in Wales - but, it should not be underestimated. Be prepared, and avoid it in high winds and wintery conditions unless well equipped. Having said that, it is exceptional!
Hard
12.2 km
1,072 m
5-7h
9.9 overall rating
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Loch Lomond and The Trossachs

The Great Trossachs Path 1

The Great Trossachs Path is a fantastic walk that we have split up into two long days. This first section can be done as one long day or broken into two shorter days. The TGTP provides instant access to the wonderful wilds of Scotland. From the bonny banks of Loch Lomond to Trossachs Pier at the head of Loch Katrine this is the first section of the Great Trossachs Path, the whole of which can be walked comfortably in two days.
Very Hard
28.5 km
693 m
7-10h
9.9 overall rating
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Lake District

Helvellyn Walk

The Helvellyn walk is one of the classics in the beautiful Lake District. To complete this challenging walk, you will have to use your hands and to be comfortable with heights, but this route offers some of the best rewards in the Lakes. The ascent to Helvellyn will take you scrambling up the Striding Edge and to go down, you will descend the Swirral Edge. Helvellyn was named Britain's best walk in 2018!
Hard
13.6 km
842 m
4.5-6.5h
9.7 overall rating
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North York Moors

Roseberry Topping Walk via Captain Cook’s Monument

Though short in distance, the Roseberry Topping Walk is a bit of a challenge with a sharp incline for most of the ascent up Cleveland’s most photographed hill. With a unique, half-cone shape, this hill is perhaps the most notable in the area, offering rewarding views over all of the Cleveland plains on a sunny day. Continue onto Captain Cook’s Monument, which stands proudly in the land the famous explorer once grew up. The Roseberry Topping Walk via Captain Cook’s Monument is a superb hike – taking you to two distinct peaks of the North York Moors. Though likely to be busy, especially on a summer day, it’s definitely worth the climb!
Easy
8.3 km
324 m
2.5-3.5h
9.6 overall rating
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Peak District

Padley Gorge

A fantastic hike starting from the beautiful Longshaw estate, following a bustling brook through the Burbage Valley to the village of Grindleford, and finally walking you back through the Yarncliffe Wood. Family friendly.
Easy
6.0 km
196 m
1.5-2h
9.6 overall rating
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South Downs

Temple of the Winds

The Temple of the Winds walk is a short, relatively flat walk in the South Downs. This hike is an absolute must do for all walkers in the Sussex area, regardless of ability. From the stone bench seat halfway through the walk, you’re rewarded with some of the best views the South Downs have to offer. Lord Tennyson himself was said to have spent hours in this spot composing his poems, and once you reach the bench you’ll want to stay too.
Very Easy
3.2 km
21 m
0.5-1h
9.2 overall rating
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Chiltern Hills

Pegsdon and Deacon Hill

This wonderful walk in the Chilterns follows an undulating path through rolling fields until you reach the stunning views at the peak at Deacon Hill.  Be sure to bring your camera!
Easy
7.9 km
127 m
1.5-2.5h
8 overall rating
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The Cotswolds

Rollright Stones Circular Walk

The Rollright Stones Circular Walk is a great outdoor activity in the northeastern part of The Cotswolds AONB that will lead you through a lovely stretch of English countryside to visit an interesting historical site. The trail sets out from the charming village of Salford and traverses the open farmland and rolling hills to the northeast before arriving at the Rollright Stones, a series of Neolithic and Bronze Age limestone monuments. This is a fantastic day-walk for anyone that is interested in local history.
Easy
8.5 km
268 m
2-3h
No Ratings
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Brecon Beacons National Park

Pen y Fan and Corn Du Short Walk

The Pen-y-Fan and Corn Du Short Walk is an amazing outdoor adventure in Brecon Beacons National Park that will take you uphill to the summit of a mountain with unbeatable views overlooking South Wales. While out walking the trail, you will work your way up the steep and rugged mountainside to reach the summits of Corn Du and Pen-y-Fan, the highest peak in South Wales and Southern Britain. Although steep, this path follows one of the more direct routes into the central beacons and will hopefully allow you to avoid some of the crowds.
Moderate
6.3 km
491 m
2.5-3.5h
No Ratings
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Northumberland National Park

Bamburgh Castle and Budle Point Walk

The Bamburgh Castle and Budle Point Walk is a fantastic adventure in Northumberland that will take you to explore a scenic coastal path with views of an iconic Norman Era castle. While out walking the trail, you will pass by the imposing Bamburgh Castle to walk along a rocky and sandy trail along the coast, before looping around the countryside on the return leg through the village of Bamburgh. This is an amazing walking route that can be enjoyed by a wide variety of age and skill levels.
Moderate
6.3 km
74 m
1.5-2h
No Ratings
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New Forest National Park

Calshot Beach Walk

When you want a change from the woods of New Forest, head down to Calshot Beach for a lovely coastal walk. Head east along the beach, and explore the fascinating history of the Calshot Castle, which guards the entrance to Southampton. Walk north among the rich marshes home to plenty of wildlife, then return along the coast. Don’t be afraid to stop for a swim if the weather is pleasant! There’s plenty of opportunities to customize your day on Calshot Beach and enjoy some time by the sea.
Very Easy
9.0 km
56 m
2-2.5h
No Ratings
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Cairngorms National Park

Ben Macdui and Cairngorm Walk

Strive to reach the summit (3058ft) of Scotland’s second-highest mountain on the gripping Ben Macdui and Cairngorm Walk in Aviemore, Scotland. The 10.9mi hillwalk is certainly not your average walk in the park, but for those seeking to conquer one of the more challenging hillwalks in Cairngorm National Park, this walk is for you! Featuring incredible views from the Cairngorm Plateau, wild river crossings and a triumphant final ascent across Ben Macdui’s northern flanks to reach the summit, this was packs a punch and if up for the challenge, you won’t want to miss it.
Very Hard
17.5 km
932 m
5.5-8h
No Ratings
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Nidderdale AONB

Swinsty and Fewston Reservoir Walk

The Swinsty and Fewston Reservoir Walk is a relatively flat walk, making it perfect for a family outing. Enjoy the fresh air as you wander along this path and take in the captivating views of Nidderdale AONB. The path is full of stone, so it is great most of the year as it doesn’t get too muddy during the wetter months.
Moderate
11.4 km
335 m
3-4h
No Ratings
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Yorkshire Dales National Park

Malham Tarn Walk

The Malham Tarn Walk is a stunning adventure that showcases many gorgeous features of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Immerse yourself in nature and check out the cascading waterfalls, limestone ravines and natural coves that make up this area. This is a challenging path, so it is not for the faint of heart.
Moderate
12.2 km
416 m
3.5-4.5h
No Ratings
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Dartmoor National Park

Castle Drogo and Cod Wood Circular Walk

The Castle Drogo and Cod Wood Circular Walk is one of the most amazing routes in all of Dartmoor National Park, due in part to its wealth of historic sites, but also because of its breathtaking scenery. While out on the trail, you will pass by the extravagant 20th Century grounds of Castle Drogo before making your way through a steep-sloped valley along the River Teign. There may be a few ups and downs along the trail, but the scenic highlights are well worth the small amount of required effort
Moderate
12.1 km
491 m
3.5-5h
No Ratings
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Devon

Arlington Court Loop

The Arlington Court Loop is a fairly laid-back walking route in Devon that will take you through a variety of terrain set within the grounds of the Chichester family’s ancestral home, Arlington Court. While out walking the trail, you will pass by the house itself that was built between 1820-1823 before looping through the countryside along the banks of the River Yeo. This is a lovely adventure for anyone that enjoys scenic landscapes and historical buildings.
Moderate
5.1 km
83 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
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Exmoor National Park

Valley of the Rocks and Lynton Walk

Walking the Valley of the Rocks and Lynton Trail is a spectacular experience along the North Devon Coast that will produce some exceptional views overlooking the Bristol Channel for a minimal amount of required effort. While out on the trail, you will pass through the Valley of the Rocks and take in the stunning views of the rugged coastal landscape before looping around Hollerday Hill to pass through the charming town of Lynton. Whether you are on vacation or are local to the Lynton area, this is a fantastic walk to explore the picturesque landscape of the North Devon Coast.
Moderate
4.0 km
111 m
1-1.5h
No Ratings
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Cornwall

South West Coast Path: Bude to Crackington Haven

Walking the South West Coast Path: Bude to Crackington Haven is a fun and beautifully scenic adventure that will allow you to experience the coastal areas of Cornwall. While out on the trail, you will traverse the rugged coastal landscape and make your way through the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There are a few steep climbs along the route; however, these are short lived, making the walk suitable for beginners and casuals that are after a bit of a challenge.
Moderate
16.1 km
511 m
4.5-6h
No Ratings
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Northern Ireland

Slieve Donard Trail

The Slieve Donard Trail is a breathtaking adventure in Northern Ireland that will take you across varied terrain to reach the summit of the country’s highest mountain. While out on the trail, you will traverse a serene stretch of woodland terrain, before climbing uphill along a stone track for views overlooking the Irish Sea from the summit of Slieve Donard. There may be a well-maintained pathway up to the summit, but don’t underestimate the difficulty of this spectacular route!
Moderate
9.5 km
833 m
4-5.5h
10 overall rating
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Loch Lomond and The Trossachs

The Great Trossachs Path 2

The Great Trossachs Path is best experienced as a 2-day trip, a long-distance path that can be reached easily from Edinburgh and Glasgow, this is a great option for a quick fix of the wild! The second section takes you walking from Trossachs Pier to Callander and can be done as a day walk or as part of the exceptional Great Trossach Path.
Hard
20.3 km
474 m
5-7h

1-20 of 1884 routes

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