The Best Places to Hike in the UK: Where to Go for Unforgettable Walks

There’s something timeless about hiking in the United Kingdom. Rolling green hills, charming stone villages, rugged mountain peaks, and dramatic coastlines; every step feels like a storybook come to life. For outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the best hiking in the UK, there are endless opportunities to lace up your boots and set out on a trail that blends natural beauty with history and culture.

If you’re considering a trip to the UK and want to thoroughly explore a region on foot, here are some of the top hiking destinations that will leave you captivated.

The Cotswolds: Idyllic English Countryside

If your idea of hiking in England involves meandering through golden-stone villages, sheep-dotted meadows, and gently rolling hills, the Cotswolds will steal your heart. This region is known for its postcard-worthy scenery, with trails that take you past old market towns, cozy pubs, and stretches of unspoiled countryside.

• Best for: Walkers who enjoy a slower pace and love soaking in quintessential English charm.
• Don’t miss: The Cotswold Way, a 102-mile National Trail with shorter sections ideal for day hikes.

The Peak District: Rugged Landscapes and Wide Vistas

As the UK’s first designated National Park, the Peak District has long been a hiker’s haven. The scenery here is wonderfully varied - you’ll find dramatic gritstone edges, windswept moorland, and lush valleys with sparkling streams. The region is also dotted with welcoming villages, making it a perfect spot for those who enjoy combining outdoor adventure with cultural exploration.

• Best for: Hikers who want diverse terrain and rewarding views without extreme elevation.
• Don’t miss: Mam Tor and the Great Ridge - one of the most iconic walks in the UK.

The Lake District: England’s Mountain Paradise

If you want a more challenging hiking experience, the Lake District is unbeatable. Home to England’s highest peak (Scafell Pike), as well as dozens of serene lakes and valleys, this UNESCO World Heritage site is perfect for those seeking both adventure and tranquility. Trails range from gentle lakeside strolls to heart-pumping climbs, all with scenery that inspired poets like Wordsworth.

• Best for: Active hikers who want a mix of serious mountain walking and scenic, peaceful paths.
• Don’t miss: Helvellyn via Striding Edge, a thrilling ridge walk for confident hikers.

Snowdonia (Eryri), Wales: Wild and Majestic

Outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy dramatic landscapes can set out hiking in Wales, where they’ll find Snowdonia National Park, where jagged peaks, glacial valleys, and sparkling lakes dominate the terrain. It’s a paradise for hikers looking for stunning views and a taste of wild, untamed beauty. While summiting Snowdon (the highest mountain in Wales) is a popular goal, there are countless lesser-known trails that feel wonderfully remote.

• Best for: Adventurers seeking dramatic mountain scenery and a variety of trails.
• Don’t miss: The Miners’ Track for a more accessible climb, or try the quieter Cadair Idris for sweeping views.

The Scottish Highlands: Remote and Awe-Inspiring

Few experiences capture the imagination like hiking in the Scottish Highlands. Vast, rugged, and deeply atmospheric, this is hiking on a grand scale. You’ll encounter shimmering lochs, glens cloaked in mist, and some of the UK’s most iconic peaks. Multi-day hikes like the West Highland Way are legendary, but even shorter trails offer an incredible sense of wilderness.

• Best for: Hikers craving solitude, big landscapes, and a touch of wild romance.
• Don’t miss: Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain, or Glen Coe for unforgettable scenery.

Why the UK is Perfect for a Hiking Holiday

What makes hiking in the UK so special is the combination of natural beauty, accessibility, and cultural richness. Trails are well-marked, villages are never too far away, and there’s always the promise of a cozy pub at the end of the day. For travelers over 45 who want to immerse themselves in a region, hiking offers not just exercise, but a deeper connection to the landscape, history, and people.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Whether you’re strolling through the storybook Cotswolds, climbing rugged peaks in the Lake District, or seeking solitude in the Scottish Highlands, the best hiking in the UK offers something for everyone. It’s more than just a walk, it’s a way to truly experience the character of this incredible country. If you need help planning a walking adventure in the UK, be sure to contact a travel advisor and take the first step on your next incredible journey.