7 Breathtaking Walking Holiday Locations In The UK
The UK is an excellent place for walking: not too hot, manageable with stunning landscapes.
From rugged coastlines and rolling hills to serene forests and majestic mountains. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or prefer leisurely strolls, these seven locations provide the perfect setting for a walking holiday to remember.
Walking is among the best kinds of exercise available. It’s low-intensity, available to nearly everyone, and will allow you to access some of the more secluded, beautiful parts of the world.
Let’s take a look at some of the best parts of the UK for this kind of break.
Lake District National Park, Cumbria
Arguably the most famous national park in the country, the Lake District is home to some stunning lakeside walks, amazing wildlife, and soaring peaks like Scafell Pike. When you’re finished hiking for the day, you might retire to one of the many villages and picturesque little towns scattered across the region.
South West Coast Path, Cornwall and Devon
If you’d like to embark on a long adventure, then the 630-mile South West Coast Path, which bridges Cornwall and Devon, is difficult to beat. Of course, you don’t have to tackle the entire length of the trail in a single trip. Depending on your priorities, you might consider the rugged, remote section between St. Ives and Penzance – or the more approachable section near Salcombe.
The Cotswolds, Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire
The Cotswolds is almost synonymous with the idyllic English countryside. Here, you’ll find stone villages, gorgeous canal paths, and plenty of farmland to explore. The route between Chipping Norton and Bath is particularly noteworthy. Called ‘The Cotswold Way’, it will take you through stately homes, castles, and countless villages. The path is well-maintained and well-signposted, meaning that you’ll rarely get lost.
Snowdonia National Park, North Wales
Hikers with a sense of adventure might prefer to travel to Snowdonia, where the tallest peak in Wales looms over the surrounding highlands. While you’re in the region, you might want to ascend the mountain itself – but there are other excellent places to walk in the area, including the trail to Aber Falls and the Glyderau range. If you’re looking for accommodation in the region, it might be worth checking out the static caravans North Wales has to offer.
The Peak District, Derbyshire
The Peak District holds the distinction of being the first national park in the country. It’s home to plenty of iconic natural landmarks. White Peak is a limestone plateau that’s covered with farmland; Dark Peak is rougher and wilder. Visitors tend to flock to the Kinder Scout Plateau, and the Monsal Trail. The park itself is in the middle of the country, which means that just about everyone can reach it.
Scottish Highlands
The Highlands are synonymous with wilderness, offering some of the UK’s most dramatic landscapes. Highlights include:
Ben Nevis, the UK’s tallest mountain. The enchanting Glen Coe valley. Coastal trails on the Isle of Skye, known for its rugged beauty and the iconic Old Man of Storr. The Highlands promise a mix of challenging hikes and scenic strolls, perfect for those seeking adventure.
Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland
For a coastal walk with geological wonders, the Causeway Coast is unparalleled. Highlights include:
The famous Giant’s Causeway, with its unique basalt columns. The scenic Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, offering spectacular sea views. Trails around Ballintoy Harbour, known for its Game of Thrones filming locations. This area blends stunning coastal scenery with fascinating history and culture.
