Hikes in 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.
Hiking regions in United Kingdom
Best Hikes in United Kingdom
Beinn Narnain and Beinn Ìme Walk
Beinn Narnain (926 m) and Beinn Ìme (1,011 m) are two Scottish Munros that form part of the Arrochar Alps in the Argyll and Bute region. The Beinn Narnain and Beinn Ìme Walk involves a tenacious pursuit of both mountain summits on a steep and rugged trail. Vistas from both summits are spellbinding and include Ben Lomond, The Cobbler, the Narnain Boulders and the infinite rolling hills of the Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.
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Helm Crag Circular Walk
The Helm Crag Circular Walk is a fun and at times rugged adventure in the Lake District that will take you to the summit nicknamed “The Lion and the Lamb” due to its unique rock formations. While out on the trail, you will walk through the village of Grasmere and traverse forest and farmland terrain before arriving at the summit for amazing views overlooking the Cumbria landscape. This is a great walk that features a good variety of terrain, making it suitable for a variety of walkers.
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Stonesfield Stroll
The Stonesfield Stroll is a fantastic outdoor experience that will take you through the Oxfordshire countryside for some beautiful views of the surrounding Cotswolds terrain. The trail sets out from the charming village of Stonesfield next to the Church of Saint James the Great and passes by two Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) as you work your way through the picturesque terrain that can be found in the region. The walk largely follows along field pathways and country roads, with only one notable steep section near the start/end point of the route.
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Hunter’s and Fisherman’s Path to Castle Drogo
The Hunter’s and Fisherman’s Path to Castle Drogo is a fantastic walking route that will allow you to take in the local history and natural beauty of Dartmoor National Park. While out walking the trail, you will wind your way through the Teign Gorge and visit the historic Fingle Bridge before returning along the riverside to climb uphill on the return to Castle Drogo. This is definitely a route geared towards history lovers.
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South West Coast Path: Plymouth to Wembury
The South West Coast Path: Plymouth to Wembury is an amazing walking route that will take you along the South Devon Coast for some spectacular views across the blue expanse of the English Channel. While out walking the trail, you will make your way through the city and open countryside along the water’s edge, until you reach the end point of the trail near Wembury Beach. This is a point-to-point trail, so make sure to pre-arrange a pick up at the end of the route.
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South West Coast Path: Mevagissey to Fowey
Walking the South West Coast Path: Mevagissey to Fowey is a great experience that will allow you to take in the beauty of Cornwall and its coastal areas. While out on the trail, you will traverse the rugged shoreline and climb uphill for breathtaking views that sweep across St Austell Bay. This is a fantastic long distance route if you are looking to explore the Cornish Riviera.
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Derry City Walls and Peace Bridge Walk
The Derry City Walls and Peace Bridge Walk is an exceptional city walk in Northern Ireland that will take you to a variety of interesting historical sites. While out walking the trail, you will make your way along the city fortifications that date back to 1613, before crossing over the Peace Bridge that spans the River Foyle. This is an excellent family-friendly walk, especially for those with an interest in history, as you will be able to explore the only walled city in Ireland.
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Chrome Hill Walk
The Chrome Hill Walk is an exciting adventure in Derbyshire that will take you uphill along two distinctive peaks for some amazing views across the rolling hills that make up the county. Due to the prominent nature of both the Chrome and Parkhouse hills, the trail can be fairly steep and rocky in places, making for a thrilling climb up to the vantage points. This route is a bit of a tough grind, but the views from the summit are well worth the effort.
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Pucks Glen Walk
Due to its suitability for all ages and skill levels, the Pucks Glen Walk is the most popular trail in the region. The atmospheric, rainforest-like glen features a rushing burn, waterfalls, several arched bridges, and rocky slopes draped in heavy, lush moss. If you’re looking to spend an hour or so immersed in serene nature, this is the walk for you!
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Moel Eilio Circular Walk
The Moel Eilio Circular Walk is an excellent choice for a countryside climb. The route is long enough to provide plenty of exercise but not overly strenuous. With its main summit flanked by the two smaller peaks of Foel Gron and Foel Goch, there are plenty of viewpoints to stop and admire the gorgeous Snowdonia scenery.
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Orrest Head Circular Walk
The Orrest Head Circular Walk is a fairly quick adventure in the Lake District that will take you uphill through the forest to the lookout point atop Orrest Head. While out on the trail, you will experience a relaxing woodland atmosphere before arriving at the summit for breathtaking views overlooking Windermere and the surrounding forests. This walk is made up of well-maintained and easy to navigate paths that are suitable for walkers or all ages.
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Tavy Cleave and Hare Tor Circular Walk
The Tavy Cleave and Hare Tor Circular Walk is a perfect route if you enjoy relaxing strolls in picturesque riverside settings. While out on the trail, you will make your way upstream along the winding banks of the River Tavy before climbing uphill to traverse several tors with charming views of Dartmoor national Park. There is a bit of an elevation gain on this route, but the spectacular views and peaceful settings are well worth the minimal effort.
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South West Coast Path: Wembury to Challaborough
The South West Coast Path: Wembury to Challaborough is an amazing long distance walking route that will allow you to experience the beauty of the South Devon coast. While out on the trail, you will explore the Yealm Estuary and meander along the beautiful coastal terrain before crossing the River Erme by foot at low tide on the way to Challaborough Bay. This route does involve a ferry crossing over the Yealm Estuary that is only serviceable from April to September, as well as a foot crossing over the River Erme that will need to be timed for low tide, so be sure to plan your walk accordingly.
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South West Coast Path: Fowey to Downderry
The South West Coast Path: Fowey to Downderry is a beautifully scenic, but long and challenging walk along the gorgeous coast of Cornwall. While out on the trail, you will climb uphill and traverse the rugged coastal terrain, passing through charming villages as you enjoy stunning views that sweep across the English Channel. This route will take a fair amount of physical fitness to complete in one day; however, the beautiful views and sense of achievement are incomparable.
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Gosford Forest Park Circular Walk
The Gosford Forest Park Circular Walk is a great family-friendly adventure in County Armagh, Northern Ireland that will take you on a beautiful forest trail through the grounds of a former country house. While out walking this route, you will meander past charming ponds and lovely gardens, before taking in the views of the historic 19th Century Gosford Castle set in an idyllic woodland setting. This is a great walk if you are looking to disconnect and relax amongst nature.
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Callander Crags
The Callander Crags walk is a great walk for those staying in or around Callander. This short loop climbs quickly to provide far-reaching views over Callander and the Trossachs beyond. There is an option to extend your hike and visit Bracklinn Falls as well as the Jubilee Cairn.
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Wyming Brook and Rivelin Reservoir Walk
The Wyming Brook and Rivelin Reservoir Walk is a 6.3km lollipop route that takes you through the dense woodland terrain surrounding the upper and lower Rivelin Reservoirs. Along the trail, walkers will experience a tranquil forest atmosphere filled with moss-covered trees and small, trickling waterfalls that give this former hunting ground an almost magical feel. This is a perfect walk for the entire family to get out and explore the natural beauty of the forest.
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Dinas Emrys Trail
The Dinas Emrys Trail is a lovely short walk that combines beautiful scenery with ancient Welsh lore. A dragon is said to sleep under the hill, so tread carefully! With lush green woods, splendid lake views, and even waterfalls, there’s much to enjoy on this route.
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The Great Gable Round
The Great Gable Round is a spectacular Lake District walk that will take you on a steep uphill climb for some amazing views over the rugged landscape. The trail sets out from Seathwaite, following closely along several winding streams and passing by a waterfall before beginning the tough slog to the summit. You’ll likely get a bit of a leg burn on this challenging walk, but the gorgeous views are certainly worth the effort.
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Hembury Woods Walk
Walking the Hembury Woods Trail is a fantastic adventure in Dartmoor National Park that will lead you through a lovely stretch of forest along the River Dart. While out on the trail, you will traverse the serene woodland terrain along the water’s edge before climbing uphill around the Iron Age hillfort site of Hemsbury Castle. This is a great route if you appreciate beautiful natural settings and ancient history.