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
Hole of Horcum Walk
So superbly beautiful from start to finish, the Hole of Horcum Walk is a popular, yet peaceful hike through the varied countryside. Begin high above a great ravine and continue along the rim towards the village of Levisham. From there, head into the heart of the Hole of Horcum - not to be missed!
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Stanage Edge Walk
The Stanage Edge Walk takes you through a beautiful valley landscape, which inspired many of Charlotte Bronte’s classics, and up onto the iconic Stanage escarpment where you can marvel at the ambitious crag climbers below you. The best place to start this walk is from the historic village of Hathersage.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Amberley and the River Arun
Walking along the River Arun and then through Amberley is one of our favourite walks in the South Downs. This fantastically varied hike starts by walking alongside the river Arun, before trekking through the historic village of Amberley. It then hikes steeply uphill near Amberley Mount, for incredible views of the surrounding South Downs.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Wendover Loop
This interesting Chiltern walk enjoys ever changing scenery, from the initial ascent along the Ridgeway to ancient woodland, farmers’ fields and a 4.8 km stretch along the lazy river like canal to finish.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Brecon Beacons Horseshoe Circular Walk
The Brecon Beacons Horseshoe Circular Walk is a beautifully scenic outdoor excursion in Wales that will lead you to the highest point in Brecon Beacons National Park (and southern Britain as a whole) for some breathtaking views. While out walking the trail, you will climb up into the mountains to explore the central beacons, traversing the summits of Corn Du, Pen-y-Fan, Cribyn, and Fan-y-Big, before descending back into the valley below. This is a great alternate route from which you can explore the rugged terrain of the Brecon Beacons.
User Ratings
Lyndhurst Circular Walk
The Lyndhurst Circular Walk begins and ends at one of Lyndhurst’s most notable landmarks, Bolton’s Bench, a lovely knoll where legend has it a brave knight and a fearsome dragon perished during battle. From here the trail takes you through the grassy plains where ponies graze, along lovely footpaths in the woods, across rivers and past a golf course. Along the way you’ll get to enjoy some interesting sights and the great scenery the New Forest is renowned for.
User Ratings
Cleeve Hill – Winchcombe Circular Walk
Take a beautiful walk through the Cotswolds countryside on the Cleeve Hill – Winchcombe Circular trail. This scenic walk begins in the picturesque town of Winchcombe and takes you along the Cotswold Way National Trail into tranquil farmland. Follow the trail to discover an ancient burial monument and the panoramic views from the top of Cleeve Hill.
User Ratings
Loch an Eilein Walk
Escape to walk among the towering pines of the Rothiemurchus Forest and see their reflection on the dazzling waters of Loch an Eilein on the Loch an Eilein Walk. The 7.0 km trail is one of Scotland’s most popular, and for a good reason! Unfolding around the entire perimeter of the loch, this route also features a lovely extension to take in neighbouring Loch Gamhna, a quieter and less travelled shoreline. Great paths and lack of ascent make this a top choice for families looking to experience the beauty of Cairngorms National Park.
User Ratings
Brimham Rocks and Moor Walk
The Brimham Rocks and Moor Walk is a natural phenomenon that was created over 320 years ago, where rocks were sculpted by ice, wind and continental shifts. Along the path, you will have the chance to see formations such as the Turtle, Dancing Bear, the Writing Desk, the Mushroom and the Sphinx. Past the rock formations lie incredible views that span as far as the eye can see.
User Ratings
Swaledale Meadows to East Gill Force and Kisdon Force Walk
The Swaledale Meadows to East Gill Force and Kisdon Force Walk is a beautiful rendition of the English countryside and encompasses many aspects of nature. Explore the cascading waterfalls and views of the Pennine Way. In the summer months, this area is filled with vibrantly coloured wildflowers!
User Ratings
Burrator Reservoir Circular Walk
Walking the Burrator Reservoir Circular is a lovely adventure in the southwest corner of Dartmoor National Park that will take you on a laidback route for some wonderfully scenic views. While out on the trail, you will walk across two separate dams and traverse the edge of the reservoir, enjoying scenic views across the water and surrounding hills. The relatively flat and well-maintained pathways here make this a great adventure for the entire family.
User Ratings
The Harbour Inn and Axmouth Walk
Walking the Harbour Inn and Axmouth Trail is a fun excursion along the southern coast of Devon that will produce some beautiful views overlooking the water. While out on the trail, you will make your way south along the banks of the River Axe and climb uphill for breathtaking views of the Axe Estuary and English Channel. This is a fantastic walk for a weekend afternoon that is made even better by the presence of The Harbour Inn and The Ship Inn near the trailhead.
User Ratings
Lynton, Watersmeet, and Valley oF the Rocks Walk
Walking the Lynton, Watersmeet, and Valley of the Rocks Trail is a fun, if challenging at times, walk that will take you through the coastal landscapes of Dartmoor National Park. While out on the trail, you will explore the undulating terrain along the East Lyn River before trekking through the town of Lynton to reach the Valley of the Rocks, all the while enjoying scenic views of the Bristol Channel. Sections of it may be steep and tough, but the spectacular views are well worth the effort.
User Ratings
South West Coast Path: Pentireglaze to Padstow
Walking the South West Coast Path: Pentireglaze to Padstow is a beautifully scenic adventure along the Cornish coast that is only one small segment of a much longer journey around the southwestern tip of the country. While out on the trail, you will pass through charming seaside villages and enjoy beautiful views across the Atlantic Ocean. Be sure to pre-arrange a pick up at the end of your walk, as this is a one-way trail.
User Ratings
Mount Stewart Lake Walk
The Mount Stewart Lake Walk is a quick and easy adventure in County Down that offers an amazing look at the architecture and gardens of a 19th Century house. While out on the trail, you will be in awe of the extravagant buildings that make up Mount Stewart House and feel as though you are in a fairytale as you walk through the well-manicured gardens. Terrain along the route is easy as well, making this walk perfectly suitable for all ages and skill levels.
User Ratings
Newlands Horseshoe
This is a wonderful walk close to Keswick. With spectacular views all along the route, especially the end walking down from Catbells, we love this hike!
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Snowdon via the Watkin Path
Avoid the crowds and head for this less used hike to the summit of Snowdon. In good weather the views from the Bwlch Ciliau down across the horseshoe are phenomenal. Often quoted as the most scenic route up Snowdon, the Watkin Path will leave you feeling smug when you meet the masses at the summit.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Hambleden Lock Walk
The short, mostly paved Hambleden Lock walk is a great trail that the whole family will be sure to enjoy! Take your time exploring this unique river crossing, and watch the boats as they pass you by while navigating the locks!
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
Goathland, Mallyan Spout and the Roman Road
Although a challenging hike – both lengthy and requiring steady legs for the negotiation of some uneven and craggy terrain through West Beck – it’s most definitely worth it! You’ll be rewarded with beautiful wooded valleys, a spectacular waterfall, open moorland and the well-preserved Roman Road.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty
The Roaches Walk and Lud’s Church
The Roaches Walk to Lud’s Church offers something different to the other Peak District walks and is usually quieter than popular parts of the Dark Peaks in holiday periods. With an unusual sandstone landscape, timeless woodlands and breathtaking views, it is no wonder it has inspired many famous tales and British climbing legends.
User Ratings
- Technical Difficulty
- Physical Difficulty