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
East Meon Walk
The east Meon Walk circles the idyllic village of East Meon, starting at the historic 13th-century All Saints church. The hike ends with great views of Butser Hill, the highest point in the South Downs National Park, for some sensational views.
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Parc Bryn Bach Circular Walk
The Parc Bryn Bach Circular Walk is a charming lakeside adventure in Wales that will take you through a 340 acre nature reserve. While out walking the trail, you will follow closely around the shores of a 36 acre lake that features beautiful views of the surrounding grassland and forest. This is a lovely walking route near Brecon Beacons National Park that is perfectly suited for a fun family adventure.
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Brockenhurst Village Walk
Located in the heart of the New Forest, Brockenhurst is blessed with lots of natural beauty and scenic spots, including wide open grassy plains where ponies, pigs and donkeys nibble and graze. Follow the circular Brockenhurst Village Walk route to explore this charming town and head off on paths along the rivers, bridges, water splashes and woodlands that surround it. The Brockenhurst Village Walk is the perfect day trip that combines a foray into the quaint village of Brockenhurst and the famed landscapes of the New Forest.
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Ben Vorlich Walk
In the most northerly area of the Arrochar Alps, a craggy, rugged mountain towers 985 m towards the sky, and the Ben Vorlich Walk invites hillwalkers to experience it for themselves. This challenging walk is best reserved for those looking for a formidable opponent to take on in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, and the broad rocky ridge is sure to put you to the test. Views of the surrounding Arrochar Alps make this an incredibly scenic hike, most notably, spectacular views of Ben Lui rising majestically in the north from the summit.
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Great Barrington Circular Walk
The Great Barrington Circular Walk explores the beautiful Gloucestershire countryside above the village of Great Barrington. The rolling hills and easy paths allow you to focus your full attention on the splendid views that surround you. You’re likely to see Skylarks and other birds, as well as sheep and cattle along your trail.
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Mount Keen from Glen Esk Walk
The Mount Keen (939 m) From Glen Esk Walk invites you to tackle the most easterly Munro with a thrilling ascent from Glen Esk. The 17.5 km walk unfolds on tracks and a well-worn hill path leading to the trig point at the summit, where you’ll uncover atypical views of sprawling moorlands instead of peaks. The route features some steep sections, a few river crossings, and a dose of history with a look at the Queen’s Well, where Queen Victoria stopped during one of her treks in the Angus glens by pony.
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Pateley Bridge Walk
The Pateley Bridge Walk takes you on a lovely stroll in Nidderdale. Explore Glasshouses and wander along the Pateley Bridge that hangs over the river. You will also pass through market town and the endless open fields in this area.
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Grimwith Reservoir Walk
The Grimwith Reservoir Walk is a wonderful family and dog-friendly stroll. The reservoir boasts beautiful views of the water and rolling countryside hills. This walk is also suitable for pushchairs and strollers due to its flat track throughout.
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Burrator Reservoir and Princetown Walk
The Burrator Reservoir and Princetown Walk is a difficult adventure in Dartmoor National park that will see you traverse a lengthy stretch of trail across several rugged tors. Covering an area that stretches north from the Burrator Reservoir to King’s Tor and east across the moor to Princetown, you will have a fair amount of ground to cover on this beautifully scenic walk through the Devon countryside. Don’t forget to bring some pocket change, as there just might be an ice cream truck near the end of the walk at Norsworthy bridge to reward you for your hard efforts.
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Baggy Point Walk
The Baggy Point Walk is a great route for anyone that loves taking in wonderful views of the ocean or visiting historical sites. While out on this relaxing walk, you will make your way along the edge of a scenic cliff that overlooks the blue expanse of the Bristol Channel before looping back along the coast to pass by several bunkers from the Second World War. The terrain here is fairly easy to navigate, making this route perfect for walkers of every skill level.
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South West Coast Path: Padstow to Mawgan Porth
Walking the South West Coast Path: Padstow to Mawgan Porth is a lengthy adventure that will allow you to fully experience the natural beauty of the Cornish coast. While out on the trail, you will explore the various bays, coves, and beaches that can be found within the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Make no doubt about it, this is a long and tiring walk that is often split up into two days.
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Glenariff Gorge Circular Walk
The Glenariff Gorge Circular Walk is a lovely family-friendly adventure in the Antrim Coast and Glens AONB that will expose you to beautiful views of waterfalls and the surrounding forest landscape. While out on the trail, you will explore the peaceful woodland terrain within the park and visit a number of equally stunning waterfalls that add to the almost magical atmosphere of the forest. As it takes place largely within the cover of the trees, this is an exceptional walking route no matter the season or weather.
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Amberley to Shoreham-by-Sea
The walk from Amberley to Shoreham-by-Sea is another wonderful walk in the South Downs. Starting at the Amberley railway station, this long and clearly marked trail follows a highly rewarding section of the South Downs Way. It may be a long walk, but it’s unique in that it has only a couple of steep climbs. The trail passes the prehistoric hill fort of Chanctonbury Ring, with magnificent 360-degree views of the surrounding downs, before finally descending into to the small coastal town of Shoreham-by-sea.
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Cwm Idwal Walk
Cwm Idwal is a short and super family-friendly walk that will challenge and delight everyone! A short climb unveils a spectacular hidden lake and multiple waterfalls. This feels like a wild and remote adventure despite the quick walk in. This is an excellent option for a mixed ability group. No one will be disappointed.
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Hayburn Wyke Walk
The Hayburn Wyke Walk is an undulating but not overly challenging route. It links the Wyke’s of Cloughton and Hayburn along an intriguing stretch of the Cleveland Way. Highlights include the waterfall at Hayburn Wyke and stunning views out to the North Sea and along the coastline to Scarborough.
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Aston Rowant Walk
The Aston Rowant walk boasts beautiful views high above the surrounding Chiltern countryside. This is a great place to bring the family for a pleasant afternoon walk or pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the views!
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Dovestone Reservoir Circular Walk
The Dovestone Reservoir Circular Walk is a 13.5 km walking circuit that will take you around Saddleworth Moor to provide scenic views of the surrounding area. Along the trail, you will pass by a number of unique highlights including a cascading waterfall, the Trinnacle rock formation, and the Dovestone Memorial Forest before arriving back at the trailhead. The amazing scenery and well-maintained trails make this route a must-walk if you are looking to explore the western portion of the Peak District.
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Torpantau, Corn Du, and Pen-y-Fan Circular Walk
The Torpantau, Corn Du, and Pen-y-Fan Circular Walk is a long and challenging outdoor excursion in Brecon Beacons National Park that is utilized by special forces for training in rugged mountain terrain. While out walking this 22.0 km trail, you will traverse the undulating terrain of the mountains to visit the summit viewpoints of Corn Du and Pen-y-Fan, before making the return along an elevated position above the valley. This is a very challenging trail that should only be undertaken by seasoned walkers.
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Blackwater Arboretum Circular Walk
The Blackwater Arboretum Circular Walk is a short and easy forest stroll suitable for New Forest visitors of all ages and abilities, including kids and pets. With just over 1.0 km to walk, it’s a nice little outing through a curated collection of trees from all over the world, including some of the oldest fir trees in the UK and a pair of impressive giant redwoods. You’ll also spot some notable wood carvings of giant acorns and pine cones that dot the trail. The Blackwater Arboretum Circular Walk is popular with horseback riders, though you also have a good chance to spot wild New Forest ponies.
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Chedworth Roman Villa Walk
Chedworth is a charming quintessential Cotswold village, and it’s also the gateway to an even older settlement. The Chedworth Roman Villa Walk leaves the village behind, so you can enjoy walking through the lush countryside and woodlands in search of the remains of one of Britain’s largest Roman villas. Take a break from your walk to explore this incredible ancient site that is operated by the National Trust.
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Other Activities in United Kingdom
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