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
Cave Dale Walk
The walk through Cave Dale is a fun outdoor experience in the Peak District that will take you uphill through a limestone gulley for some amazing views across the Derbyshire landscape. While out on the trail, you will make your way through a picturesque setting with vibrant green hills and limestone walls before taking in some amazing views of Peveril Castle, an 11th Century Castle overlooking Castleton. This is a great family-friendly walk that you won’t want to miss out on.
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Chee Dale Walk
The Chee Dale walk is a 16.1 km circuit in Derbyshire that will take you through the picturesque English countryside on a loop from Miller’s Dale across the Taddington Moor and back. While out on the trail, walkers will cross vast stretches of farmland and pass through the dale to walk alongside the banks of the winding River Wye. This is a fairly easy walk in the Peak District that features beautiful scenery and easy-to-navigate trails.
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River Dove Circular Walk
The River Dove Circular is a fantastic walking route that will take you through the Staffordshire countryside to visit several unique sites, such as Thor’s Cave. While out on the trail, you will pass through scenic villages and beautiful stretches of farmland before making your way along the serene River Dove as it cuts through Wolfscote Dale. There is a good variation in terrain along this route, so strap on your boots and get ready to set out on this amazing adventure in the Peak District.
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Kinder Reservoir Walk
The Kinder Reservoir Walk is an intermediate length journey that will take you from the town of Glossop to cross the moor and eventually arrive at the edge of the reservoir. While out on the trail, you will enjoy scenic views across the rugged landscape of the moor and take in some nice sights across the water. Although the trail will likely be a bit boggy in certain areas, the fun uphill climb across the sometimes challenging terrain will make for a memorable experience outdoors in the Peak District.
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Dovestone Rocks Walk
The Dovestone Rocks Walk is a tough but rewarding adventure that will take you up to some of the high points along Saddleworth Moor for some amazing views overlooking the Peak District. While out on the trail, you will climb the smaller Dick and Alderman’s hills, before making your way up the Dovestone Edge for some breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. There is a lot of uphill climbing on this long route, but the views and sense of achievement will be well worth the effort.
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Agden & Dale Dike Reservoirs Circular Walk
The Agden & Dale Dike Reservoirs Circular Walk is a 10.6 km circuit that will take you from the village of Low Bradfield to traverse the terrain along the shores of these two scenic bodies of water. While out on the trail, you will experience views of some of the beautiful landscapes that the Peak District is known for and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere along the water’s edge. With scenic views over the water and the opportunity to end your journey at The Plough for some post-walk drinks, this is an excellent weekend adventure for casual and experienced walkers alike.
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Cromford Mill and Black Rocks Circular Walk
The Cromford Mill and Black Rocks Circular Walk is a scenic walking route that features beautiful views of the woodlands and farms that make up the Derbyshire countryside, as well as the chance to experience the industrial past of Cromford. A large part of the village infrastructure was commissioned to provide the workers at the Cromford Mill with their daily needs, such as schools, chapels, and shops. Along the walk, you will pass by some of these historic sites, in addition to visiting an ashover grit outcrop known as the Black Rocks.
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Burbage Edge Circular Walk
Walking the Burbage Edge Circular is a fun day-walk in Peak District National Park that will take you to several unique highlights including the summit of Higger Tor, the Iron Age fort at Carl Wark, and the Burbage Edge. While out on the walk, you will have some amazing views looking out across the rugged terrain of the Burbage Valley. For those with an interest in the outdoors, as well as local history, this walk is the perfect combination of both.
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Litton Mill and Cressbrook Circular Walk
Walking the Litton Mill and Cressbrook Circular is a fun adventure in the Peak District that will allow you to explore a peaceful dale set in the Derbyshire countryside and take in some beautiful views of the surrounding farmland. While out on the trail, you will make your way along the winding River Wye and pass by the Litton Mill before heading into the Cressbrook Dale on your way to the Derbyshire Dales National nature Reserve. This is a quaint walk in a peaceful setting that can be enjoyed by walkers of most skill levels.
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Derwent Reservoir Circular Walk
Walking the Derwent Reservoir Circular is a fun experience in Derbyshire that will take you through the Upper Derwent Valley for views across the water and surrounding hillscape. While out on the trail, you will walk the edge of both the Derwent and Howden reservoirs and be flanked by the tall moorland hills of the Peak District on either side. Elevation gain along this walk is spread throughout the trail, making for an easy-going adventure through the beautiful Derbyshire countryside.
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Beeley Moor Short Circular Walk
The Beeley Moor Short Circular Walk is a great walking route in Derbyshire that will allow you to explore the desolate, yet beautiful terrain of the moor. This trail is relatively short and easy, although areas are sure to be bogged down with mud. Make sure to wear some decent walking footwear for this rugged adventure in the wonderful Peak District.
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Bleaklow Head via Torside Clough
The Bleaklow Head via Torside Clough walk is a tough but rewarding route that will take you up a steep hill with scenic views that sweep across the valley below. Walkers will also need to use their route finding skills to traverse the moorland terrain in search of the memorial crash site of a B29 Superfortress that went down in the area in 1948. This route is physically demanding, but the beautiful views and sense of personal satisfaction at having completed the trek are well worth the effort.
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Bottoms to Torside Reservoir Walk
The Bottoms to Torside Reservoir Walk will take you through the picturesque Derbyshire countryside along the edge of four charming reservoirs before climbing uphill along the moor. While out on the trail, you will have some spectacular views looking out across the water that include a nice backdrop of the Peak District landscape. With a good mix of terrain and spectacular views, this walk is perfect for a weekend stroll in the Peak District.
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Lover’s Leap and Dove Hole Walk
The Lover’s Leap and Dove Hole Walk is a fantastic trek through Dovedale National Nature Reserve that will take you from the foot of Thorpe Cloud to the village of Milldale and back. While out on the trail, you will pass several highlights in the area, including the Stepping Stones across the River Dove, Lover’s Leap, the massive Ilam Rock, and of course the Dove Holes. If you find yourself exploring the Derbyshire/Staffordshire border, this walk should definitely be on your list.
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Hartington to Wolfscote Dale
The walk from Hartington to Wolfscote Dale is a great adventure in the Peak District that will take you through two charming dales that flank Wolfscote Hill on either side. While out on the trail, you will have some scenic views of the beautiful Derbyshire countryside, as you walk through the valley alongside the River Dove. This scenic stroll is the perfect option if you enjoy quaint riverside views.
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Tideswell Dale Circular
The Tideswell Dale Circular is a moderate-length adventure in the Peak District that will take you through the beautiful Derbyshire countryside along the edge of the River Wye. While out on the trail, you will trek through open fields and charming dales before wrapping up the walk with a stroll through Tideswell village. This is a great route for anyone that enjoys serene settings and the sound of rushing water by the river bank.
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Ladybower and Lead Hill Walk
The Ladybower and Lead Hill Walk is a relatively short adventure in the Derwent Valley that will lead you uphill for some nice views overlooking the reservoir. While out on the trail, you will climb up Lead Hill along its steep western slope before circling around the hilltop to descend along the tranquil forests of the Priddock and Ladybower woods. This trail is well-maintained and easy to navigate, making for a pleasant stroll in the beautiful Peak District.
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Grindleford to Hathersage Walk
The walk from Grindleford to Hathersage is a 10.1 km circuit that will take you across the charming Peak District terrain that separates these two historic villages. While out on the trail, you will make your way through serene stretches of woodland and the wonderful waterside setting along the edge of the River Derwent. This easy-going walk is perfect for a pleasant weekend stroll through the Derbyshire countryside.
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Matlock to Heights of Abraham
The Matlock to Heights of Abraham Walk is an amazing route filled with a good variety of terrain and beautifully scenic views of the Derbyshire countryside. The trail heads through the village of Matlock along the River Derwent before climbing uphill to the heights for some amazing views of the surrounding Peak District. Well-marked and maintained, this walking route offers the perfect opportunity for a great workout with killer views.
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Longshaw Estate Burbage Brook Trail
Walking the Longshaw Estate Burbage Brook Trail is a fun adventure in the Peak District that the entire family will be able to enjoy due to the scenic terrain and short overall distance of the walk. While out on the trail, you will pass through the grounds of the estate and take in some charming views across the waterside setting along Burbage Brook. Trails here are well-maintained and easy to navigate, meaning there is nothing to do but enjoy nature while out on this scenic walk.