Walks In England
Looking for great places to go walking in England? You’ll be spoilt for choice! Steeped in history, myth and ancient lore, England’s timeless landscapes offer the perfect backdrop for avid walkers. This small country offers a tremendous diversity of scenery, including blustery coastal trails, epic mountain lakeside paths, charming river valleys, and dense woodland. Whether you’re looking for a challenging mountain trek or a gentle valley walk, England has a trail for you.
For such a small, densely populated country, England has a surprising number of national parks and beautiful regions where it’s still possible to escape the crowds and get lost. While the Lake District is still the number one attraction for walkers, there’s also plenty to see and do in the Peak District or the North York Moors. Each region has its own unique character and you’ll find plenty of variety, including rugged, open fells, ancient woodland, and green, rolling hills. There are so many incredible regions for walking in England; the only problem you’ll have is deciding where to start!
To give you a little inspiration, we’ve put together our top tips for walking in England. You’ll find suggested walking routes, regional guides, and advice for planning your trip. So what are you waiting for? Start your adventure and go walking in England today!
Types Of Walking In England
One of the best features of walking in England is that there really is something for everyone, from easy, flat trails to imposing, rocky mountains and everything between. Many low-level trails in the national parks offer wheelchair and buggy-friendly paths, meaning that there are many routes that the entire family can enjoy. You’ll find gentle valley walks, short coastal trails, and canal routes, all of which offer an easy walk if you’re looking for something a little less strenuous.
However, if you’re a keen walker and seeking a challenge, head to the Lake District for a more vigorous trek. Here, amidst the wild, open fells, you’ll find some of the highest mountains in England. The ascents may be strenuous, but you’ll be rewarded with some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country.
Easy Walks In England
Temple of the Winds Walk: The enigmatically named Temple of the Winds walk is one of the most beautiful easy walks in England, and a must for visitors to the South Downs. The poet Lord Tennyson passed much of his time contemplating the magnificence of the scenery near the Bronze Age bank known as the Temple of the Winds, which served as inspiration for some of his most beloved poems. You can do the same from the stone bench at the mid-point of the walk. This walk is a wonderful introduction to the beautiful South Downs.
Langstrath Valley Walk: The Lake District boasts some spectacular scenery, but it often comes at a cost – some very steep hills! This low-level walk combines the best of both worlds, allowing you to admire the stunning views without expending too much energy. The walk to this beautiful hidden valley will take you past bubbling streams, along riverside paths, and through picturesque villages, and is one of our favorite easy walks in England.
Family Walks In England
Hambledon Lock Walk: If you’re looking for a fun walk in the Chilterns for all the family, head to Hambledon Lock, just a stone’s throw from Henley-on-Thames. Kids will love the experience of watching the boats navigate the lock, and parents will appreciate a pit stop at the friendly Flower Pot Pub.
Farndale Daffodil Walk: Looking for an easy walk in England that is buggy-friendly? This beautiful walk through the villages of Low Mill and Church Houses is perfect for families, especially those with small children. If you’re pushing a buggy or need wheelchair access, take the linear route there and back to the car park. Alternatively, complete the small loop through open farmland and forest. Either way, this delightful stroll makes for a lovely day out.
Mam Tor Circular Walk: Mam Tor is the Peak District’s ‘mother hill’, and this relatively easy walk is a great option for families. The top of the hill may be windswept, but the views are magnificent, showcasing some of the best parts of the Peak District. This is a region steeped in ancient history, and kids will love searching out the carved stones and historical landmarks.
Day Walks In England
Brush Hill and White Leaf Nature Reserve Walk: The Chilterns is one of England’s designated Areas Of Natural Beauty, and this lovely hike through Brush Hill and White Leaf Nature Reserve is one of the best day walks in England. You’ll enjoy dense woodland, sweeping views from the Ridgeway, and even a glimpse of the Prime Minister’s weekend home at Chequers! There’s an abundance of wildlife to see on the way, including many rare birds and butterflies. Come in autumn when the woods erupt in a festival of color.
East Dean, Beachy Head and Birling Gap Walk: Beachy Head is one of the most iconic sights in the South Downs – a towering white chalk cliff that dominates the headland near Eastbourne. This lovely walk from East Dean takes you over Beachy Head and up to Birling Gap, offering amazing cliff-top views. This makes for a wonderful day out in the South Downs.
Challenging Walks In England
Newlands Horseshoe Walk: If you’re looking for a dramatic ridge walk and one of the most challenging walks in England, head to the Lake District. The Newlands Horseshoe walk will take you over six summits, including the steep fell of Catbells, providing you with some of the best views in the Lake District. This is a challenging hike and a long day, but we think it’s one of the best walks in the United Kingdom.
Kinder Scout Walk: Kinder Scout, the most famous of the Dark Peaks, holds a particular charm for adventure travelers. This challenging walk is also one of the region’s most rewarding, with breathtaking views, varied terrain, and some sections that require a satisfying scramble over the rocks. Kinder Scout is an epic Peak District trail and a must for more adventurous walkers.
Best Walks In England
Helvellyn Walk: Regularly topping the list of the best walks in England, this route up Helvellyn via Striding Edge is a Lake District classic. You’ll need a head for heights and to be prepared for a bit of a scramble, but the views from the iconic Striding Edge ridge make it all worth the effort. For a slightly easier route, ascend Helvellyn via Swirral Edge, which is a little less strenuous but no less spectacular.
Glynde and Mount Caburn Walk: Beginning in the quaint village of Glynde, this fantastic walk through the South Downs offers a perfect afternoon out in the English countryside. The gentle, undulating terrain of the South Downs is ideal walking territory, and the views over the rolling hills down to the ocean are incomparable.
Ravenscar and Robin Hood’s Bay Walk: Robin Hood’s Bay is a picturesque village in the north east of England, offering access to some of the best coastal walks in the UK. This route, which begins high up on the cliffs of Ravenscar, will take you along the Cleveland Way and the coastal path all the way to the village, where you can stop for an hour or two of exploration before continuing the trail. This popular trek offers incredible views of the bay and plenty of variety along the way.
The Great Ridge and Win Hill Walk: Connecting the famous Peak District summits of Mam Tor and Lose Hill, the Great Ridge stretches for 3km above the Hope Valley. This is one of the best ridge walks in England, and perhaps the most popular route in the Peak District, with a challenging climb, diverse scenery, and breathtaking views. Don’t miss the Old Hall at the end of the trail – an atmospheric pub dating from 1508.
Fairfield Horseshoe Walk: The walk around the Fairfield Horseshoe begins and ends in the pretty Lake District town of Ambleside, and offers some of the finest views in the region. It’s a pretty stiff climb to ascend the horseshoe, but once you’re up, you can enjoy a superb ridge walk with a stunning vista.
Ashridge Boundary Trail: The Chilterns are simply teeming with wildlife, and this long day walk along the Ashridge Boundary Trail is one of the best ways to experience it. Watch out for soaring red kites and herds of small deer, and enjoy remarkable views from Beacon Hill. Make sure to leave plenty of time to finish the route, and enjoy the fabulous, ever-changing scenery of the beautiful Chiltern Hills!
Dovedale Walk: Dovedale is one of the most popular hills in the Peak District, and this trail from Ilam is the best way to experience it. This incredible Dovedale walk follows the River Dove to Milldale, tracing the path of medieval trade routes and ascending high up to Bailey Hill. The views here are simply fabulous, and the unique limestone features of the Peak District provide plenty of variety.
Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey Walk: North Yorkshire is dotted with eerie skeletons of medieval abbeys and monasteries, once-great centers of wealth and learning that were destroyed in the aftermath of the English Reformation. Their towering remains form a beautiful backdrop for a hike in the North York Moors, and this route to Rievaulx Abbey is one of the finest. A relatively easy hike, this walk is a fantastic way to learn more about England’s fascinating history whilst enjoying its beautiful scenery.
Scafell Pike Walk: The quickest route up Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain, runs from Wasdale Head, and is a straightforward scramble up to the top. However, this wonderful walk via Ill Crag offers much more variety, and has to be one of the best walks in England. You’ll pass mountain tarns, bubbling streams, and beautiful gorges, all while enjoying some of the finest views the Lake District has to offer.
Sutton Bank, White Horse of Kilburn and Gormire Lake Walk: This stunning, challenging walk is our favorite way to experience the North York Moors and the popular Cleveland Way. It includes a dramatic cliff walk, cool, dense forest, rolling green hills, and a glimpse of the beautiful Gormire Lake; all of England’s best features packed into one wonderful day hike! The locals claim that the views at Sutton Bank are the best in England. You can be the judge – add this gorgeous walk to your England walking itinerary!
When Is The Best Time To Walk In England?
England’s temperate climate means that you can go walking at any time of the year, although you should be prepared for rain, even in summer! To experience the forests and fells at their best, come in spring when the woods are carpeted with bluebells and daffodils. Alternatively, plan your trip in autumn when the leaves start to turn and the trees put on a dazzling display of orange, red, and gold.
Summer is the best season for warm weather, and it’s never too hot to go walking in England. This is the season when the countryside is at its best, with vibrant green foliage and plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting. However, popular regions like the Lake District and Peak District are likely to be very busy, especially in the school holidays. Avoid the crowds by planning your visit in late spring or early autumn instead.
England also offers many walking opportunities in winter and this can be a lovely time to see the fells in the north, covered in a glistening coat of frost. However, be careful if you’re walking on higher ground in winter as the weather can change rapidly and conditions in the mountains may become dangerous. Avoid ridge walks in winter weather, and always consult local information before you set off on a trek. If in doubt, hire a local guide who will be able to help you plan your ideal walking holiday in England. Check out our recommended tours in England for more ideas!
Best Regions For Walking in England
The Lake District is regularly cited as one of the best regions for walking in England, and it’s certainly easy to see why. This gorgeous national park, recently awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, offers some of the most beautiful, distinctive, and un-spoilt scenery in the whole of the country. Any England walking itinerary should include a tour of the Lakes.
However, there’s much more to England beyond the charms of the Lake District. The Peak District National Park covers parts of Derbyshire, Yorkshire, Staffordshire, and Cheshire, and offers a huge expanse of walking trails in some pretty spectacular scenery. Further south, the Chilterns cover a smaller band of hills south of Oxford, and it’s here you’ll find quintessential English landscapes, with rolling hills, delightful villages, and serene rivers.
The South Downs, located in the south east of England, boast beautiful green hills and dramatic coastal paths, perfect for a day trip from London. Finally, all the way up in the north east of the country, the North York Moors provide an epic vista, with rugged fells, beautiful cliffs, and picturesque fishing villages. Whatever your preference, England offers a casket of wonders for walkers and you’re sure to fall in love with the landscape, whichever region you choose!
How To Plan A Trip To England
If this list of epic trails has you reaching for your walking boots, don’t worry. We’ve got all the information you’ll need on how to plan a trip to England. You’ll find advice for planning your trip, suggested hikes, transport tips, and lots more in our Chilterns guide, Lake District guide, North York Moors guide, and South Downs guide. We’ve done the hard work – all you need to do is pick a destination!
Hiking regions in England
- Chiltern Hills (110)
- Cornwall (136)
- Dartmoor National Park (67)
- Devon (85)
- Dorset (15)
- Exmoor National Park (21)
- Howardian Hills AONB (16)
- Lake District (195)
- New Forest National Park (63)
- Nidderdale AONB (20)
- North York Moors (91)
- Northumberland National Park (107)
- Peak District (158)
- South Downs (124)
- The Cotswolds (83)
- Yorkshire Dales National Park (91)
Best Hikes in England
Marsden Moor Walk
The Marsden Moor Walk is a 13.5km circuit that sets out from the town of Marsden and traverses the nearby moorland to the west. Along the walk, you will experience amazingly scenic views across the rolling green landscape and hike uphill along the rugged escarpment known as Standedge. This route isn’t overly challenging, but it does feature several bigger climbs that will keep things interesting for both casual and seasoned walkers alike.
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Wastwater Extended Loop
The Wastwater Extended Loop is an easy-going walking route in the Lake DIstrict that will take you through the picturesque terrain of Wasdale for some elevated views of Wastwater. While out on the trail, you will trek through beautiful stretches of open farmland and serene forests before traversing the terrain along the foot of Whin Rigg on the way to the edge of the lake. This route features a small amount of elevation gain, but it is easy enough for walkers of most skill levels to complete.
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White Lady Waterfall and Lydford Gorge Walk
The White Lady Waterfall and Lydford Gorge Walk is a fantastic excursion in Dartmoor National Park that will take you to several natural and historic points of interest. While out walking the trail, you will take in views of the plunging White Lady Waterfall and visit the churning waters of the Devil’s Cauldron, before climbing uphill to the 13th Century remains of Lydford Castle. With a wealth of amazing highlights, there is no reason to put off exploring the terrain around Lydford Gorge.
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South West Coast Path: Salcombe to Kingswear
The South West Coast Path: Salcombe to Kingswear is an exhaustingly long, yet wonderfully scenic walking route that will reveal the natural and historical beauty of Devon. While out on the trail, you will explore the rugged coastal terrain while experiencing beautiful views across the English Channel and historical sites such as the Salcombe and Dartmouth Castles. This route is often split up into multi-day adventures that utilize campsites along the trail.
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Higger Tor Circular Walk
The Higger Tor Circular Walk is a fun, family-friendly outing just west of Sheffield that will take you on an 8.2 km trek through the Hathersage Moor for some amazing views of the surrounding countryside. Along the walk, you will be able to visit several unique historical sites and summit Higger Tor, a rock promontory that was featured in The Princess Bride (1987). The trails here are easy to follow and suitable for walkers of most skill levels, including families with children. The route is also dog friendly.
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Langdale Pikes Circular Walk
Walking the Langdale Pikes Circular is a challenging adventure in the Lake District that will take you uphill through some rugged terrain for amazing views overlooking the valley of Great Langdale. While out on the trail, you will traverse the summits of Blea Rigg, Sergeant Man, Thunacar Knott, Pavey Ark, Harrison Stickle, Pike of Stickle, and Loft Crag. If that doesn’t sound like enough of an exciting adventure for you, then the picturesque sights from these elevated positions will be sure to take your breath away.
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The Templer Way
Walking the Templer Way is a scenic but lengthy adventure that will lead you from Dartmoor National Park to Teignmouth to a position overlooking the English Channel. This one-way route will see you traverse points of interest like the Haytor Rocks, the Great Plantation, and Stover Park; as you work your way along the River Teign towards the ferry that will take you across the water to Teignmouth. What a fantastic way to see the eastern part of Dartmoor and the surrounding Devon landscape - just be sure to arrange a pick up at the end-point of your walk.
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South West Coast Path: Kingswear to Paignton
Kingswear to Paignton is a fantastic adventure along the South Devon coast that will offer some stunning views across the English Channel. While out on the trail, you will walk along the rugged coastline before passing through the seaside areas of Brixham and Paignton. There are quite a few ups and downs along this route, so be prepared for a bit of a leg burn.
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Walla Crag Walk
The Walla Crag Walk is a fantastic outdoor experience immediately south of Keswick that will take you to a summit vantage point atop Walla Crag. While out on the trail, you will walk along the edge of the lake and climb uphill through some steep and rugged terrain for breathtaking views overlooking the deep blue surface of Derwent Water. Portions of this walk are a bit steep, but overall the trail is an amazing experience that can be completed by casual and seasoned walkers alike.
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Bamford and Stanage Edge Circular Walk
The Bamford and Stanage Edge Circular Walk will take you along the edge of these two rugged escarpments for some amazing views across the surrounding valleys and moorland. Relatively easy to navigate, the route passes through a variety of terrain and will allow you to explore the rugged landscape that is home to some of the Peak District’s most challenging and alluring rock climbing routes. Get set for an awesome day of exploring the outdoors along a route that is suitable for casual and seasoned walkers alike.
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South West Coast Path: Paignton to Exmouth
Walking the South West Coast Path: Paignton to Exmouth is a lengthy adventure in Devon that will lead you along the coast for beautiful views of the English Channel; however, the difficulty and overall distance of the route make it only appropriate for seasoned walkers. While out on the trail, you will traverse the rugged terrain of the coast and take a ferry across Teignmouth to reach the end point of the walk at the Starcross ferry to Exmouth. Be sure to plan travel arrangements, as this is a one-way walk.
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Tegg’s Nose and Macclesfield Forest
Walking the Tegg’s Nose and Macclesfield Forest Trail will take you on an amazing journey through breathtaking forests and up to the top of one of the most iconic hills in the area. Along the walk, you will traverse a variety of terrain, including stretches of woodland, rugged hilltops, and meadow, as you take in some spectacular views across the Cheshire countryside. While the route does feature a bit of uphill walking, it is not overly difficult and can be completed by casual and seasoned walkers alike.
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The Crinkle Crags Walk
The Crinkle Crags Walk is a 14.2 km lollipop route that will see you set out from the valley of Great Langdale and climb uphill to the summit of the fell. While out on the trail, you will traverse some rocky and rugged terrain to gain an amazing vantage point overlooking the valley and surrounding mountains of the Lake District. The views along the walk are a great reward, but make no mistake, your body will let you know when you’ve reached the end of this tough trail.
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South West Coast Path: Exmouth to Sidmouth
The South West Coast Path: Sidmouth to Exmouth is a beautifully scenic portion of a much longer route that leads you along the Devon coast to experience the gorgeous landscapes that can be found in the region. While out on this one-way trail, you will travel between the towns of Sidmouth and Exmouth, experiencing the beautiful scenery of the English Channel and rugged coastal terrain that can be found along the way. There is a bit of elevation gain on the route; however, the trail is very easy to follow, making it suitable for a wide variety of outdoor enthusiasts.
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Shining Tor Circular Walk
The Shining Tor Circular Walk is a fantastic walking route on the border of Cheshire and Derbyshire that climbs uphill through the forest to summit the two peaks of Shining Tor and Cats Tor. While out on the trail, walkers will pass by several interesting features including the ruin of Errwood hall and the Shrine of St. Joseph. Although the beginning of the walk is steep, the latter half is all downhill, making for a not-so-difficult route with some amazing points of interest.
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Helvellyn via Swirl Edge
Walking to Helvellyn via the Swirral Edge is a beautiful but rewarding route in the Lake District that will take you uphill to visit the summit of the third-highest point in England. While out on the trail, you will experience some breathtaking views overlooking a number of nearby fells, as well as the snaking expanse of Ullswater to the east. Portions of this trail might be a bit tricky and weather can change rapidly, but if you catch it on a good day you will be wowed by the amazing scenery.
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South West Coast Path: Sidmouth to Seaton
Walking the South West Coast Path: Sidmouth to Seaton is a spectacular way to experience the natural beauty and challenging terrain that can be found along the South Devon coast. While out walking the trail, you will make your way in between these two towns, all while taking in some stunning views across the English Channel and traversing some relatively steep climbs that will definitely make you sweat! As this is a point-to-point trail, you will need to make travel arrangements for the return to your vehicle at the trailhead.
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Dovehead and Three Shires Head Circular Walk
The Dovehead and Three Shires Head Circular Walk is a fantastic outdoor adventure that will take you across Axe Head Moor to visit the spot where Derbyshire, Cheshire, and Staffordshire all converge along the River Dane. While out on this walk, you will pass through the scenic English countryside, complete with quaint cottages, stone bridges, and cascading waterfalls. The terrain along the trail is fairly easy to traverse, making this hike suitable for most skill levels.
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Thirlmere Way
The Thirlmere Way is a fun Lake District adventure that will see you cut across the Cumbria countryside from the village of Grasmere to the northern end of Thirlmere. This walk is only a small portion of the much longer trail that spans 209.2 km from Manchester to Thirlmere along one of the water sources for the city. While out on this walk, you will experience some spectacular scenery of the surrounding peaks and deep blue waters of Thirlmere.
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South West Coast Path: Seaton/Axmouth to West Bay
The South West Coast Path: Seaton/Axmouth to West Bay is a wonderfully scenic journey along the South Devon coast that offers a variety of terrain and stunning views across the English Channel. While out walking the trail, you will head through the Axmouth to Lyme Regis Undercliffs NNR before walking the coastline into Dorset above beautiful beaches that border the ocean. While this lengthy walk can be done year-round, certain parts of it can be fairly muddy/slippery during the winter season, so make sure to exercise caution during this time.