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    Hiking in United Kingdom

    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.

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    Hiking regions in United Kingdom

    Best Hikes in United Kingdom

    Showing 121 to 140 of 1,000+
      Open details for Buckden Pike and Lead Mine Walk

      Buckden Pike and Lead Mine Walk

      Hard
      12.6 km
      651 m
      4-5.5h

      The Buckden Pike and Lead Mine Walk is an amazing stroll that gives adventure seekers a challenge. Climbing up the side of the highest peak in Yorkshire Dales National Park, the majority of this walk is uphill and some scrambling may be necessary. It provides beautiful views of the surrounding area and takes you to beautiful views of the waterfall.

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      Open details for Craigendarroch Walk

      Craigendarroch Walk

      Easy
      4.0 km
      315 m
      1.5-2h

      The 4km Craigendarroch Walk in Ballater Scotland is a popular, small hillwalk that features fantastic views of the surrounding hills, most notably Lochnagar, whose corrie and cliffs are guaranteed to steal the show on a clear day! At 402 m high, Craigendarroch may not be one of the tallest hills in the Cairngorms National Park, but it’s a challenging little hillwalk nonetheless, with some steep sections that are bound to get your heart rate going. This walk is an excellent choice for those looking to work towards tackling some of the park’s higher peaks and also for those walking with older children who are ready to take on a summit climb.

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      Open details for Meldon Reservoir and Black Tor Walk

      Meldon Reservoir and Black Tor Walk

      Moderate
      7.4 km
      269 m
      2-3h

      The Meldon Reservoir and Black Tor Walk is a spectacular adventure in Dartmoor National Park that will expose you to some breathtaking views of the rugged landscape that can be found here. The trail sets out from the car park and travels along the edge of the charming reservoir before climbing uphill through some rugged terrain along the West Okement River to traverse Black Tor and Longstone Hill. This is an arduous journey, but the epic views are more than worth the trouble.

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      Open details for Woodbury Common Loop

      Woodbury Common Loop

      Easy
      7.7 km
      197 m
      2-2.5h

      The Woodbury Common Loop is a great adventure in Devon that will take you across a variety of terrain to view the picturesque countryside. Along the trail, you will make your way along rolling hills, charming lakes, and through serene stretches of forest; all of which make for a relaxing day on the trails. This is a multi-use trail that is often populated with mountain bikers, so be sure to keep an eye out and share the trail.

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      Open details for South West Coast Path: Perranporth to Portreath

      South West Coast Path: Perranporth to Portreath

      Moderate
      19.3 km
      473 m
      4.5-6.5h

      The South West Coast Path: Perranporth to Portreath is a lovely adventure on the Cornish coast that will allow you to experience the beautiful seaside atmosphere here. While out walking the trail, you will meander along the water’s edge, climbing up hillsides and passing through charming villages as you take in the views across the Atlantic Ocean. As this is a one-way trail and the area is poorly served by buses, you will want to arrange a pick up at the end of your walk.

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      Open details for Blackhead Walk

      Blackhead Walk

      Easy
      4.2 km
      96 m
      1-1.5h

      The Blackhead Walk is a fantastic journey along the coast of Northern Ireland that will produce lovely seaside views and the chance to visit historical sites. While out on the trail, you will traverse the coastal Blackhead Path and take in views of the Belfast Lough, before visiting Blackhead Lighthouse that was built at the turn of the 20th Century. While this is a short and fairly easy route, it features terrain that will make it unsuitable for less-mobile walkers.

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      Open details for Mam Tor Walk – A Family-Friendly Circular Route

      Mam Tor Walk – A Family-Friendly Circular Route

      Easy
      4.5 km
      200 m
      1.5-2h

      Mam Tor Walk is a short and family-friendly trail that is steeped in ancient history and takes in one of the Peak District’s most iconic views. Mam Tor Circular trail is great for nearly any level of hiker.

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      Overall Rating
      9.8
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Arundel Castle and Pubs Walk

      Arundel Castle and Pubs Walk

      Moderate
      13.5 km
      187 m
      3-4h

      A great walk in the South Downs taking in history and some great pubs. This varied hike starts in the delightful town of Arundel and Arundel Castle, before meandering alongside the River Arun and then heading uphill into beautiful woodland and countryside. Stop at wonderful pubs and cafes during this walk, perfect for those who want to rest a little or take their time absorbing the views.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.8
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Kilburn White Horse and Gormire Lake Walk

      Kilburn White Horse and Gormire Lake Walk

      Hard
      13.5 km
      313 m
      3.5-4.5h

      Starting at the top of Sutton Bank, the Kilburn White Horse and Gormire Lake walk follows the cliff top Cleveland Way, meanders along forest tracks, through rolling farmland and catches glimpses of Gormire Lake. This makes for an energetic and varied hike with many fantastic views along the way.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.8
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Open details for Pyg Track to Snowdon and Miner’s Track

      Pyg Track to Snowdon and Miner’s Track

      Moderate
      12.1 km
      841 m
      4.5-6.5h

      The Pyg Track is the shortest walk up Snowdon; however, it’s not the easiest one. Although busy, the trail will give you some exceptional views of the mountain and the pass below the tremendous Crib Goch Ridge. The Miner’s track is a taxing initial descent, but it provides a long, interesting, and gentle return to the start point.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.4
      Technical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Open details for Conic Hill Walk

      Conic Hill Walk

      Easy
      4.0 km
      324 m
      1.5-2.5h

      The Conic Hill walk is a short, but steep hike from Balmaha, which takes you to the summit of Conic Hill. From the top the views out across Loch Lomond and its many islands are truly incredible. This is a great walk, especially if looking for something a little bit shorter.

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.3
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Open details for Brush Hill & White Leaf Nature Reserve

      Brush Hill & White Leaf Nature Reserve

      Moderate
      10.8 km
      201 m
      2.5-3.5h

      A perfect Chiltern walk, with stunning views, soaring birds, dense woodland, and a glimpse of the Prime Ministers Country retreat, this trail really does have something for everyone!

      User Ratings
      Overall Rating
      9.3
      Technical Difficulty
      Easy (Circle)
      Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
      Physical Difficulty
      Intermediate (Square)
      Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
      Open details for Llanfrynach and Fan-y-Big Walk

      Llanfrynach and Fan-y-Big Walk

      Hard
      16.3 km
      757 m
      5-7h

      The Llanfrynach and Fan-y-Big Walk is a challenging adventure in Wales that will take you up into the Brecon Beacons for stunning views from the ‘diving board’ rock formation at Fan-y-Big. While tout on the walk, you will pass through the village of Llanfrynach to traverse the open countryside, climbing uphill to the summit of Fan-y-Big before descending along Cefn Cyff. Walkers should take note that this route is best done in favourable weather conditions, as navigation will be easier and the views will be far more scenic.

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      Open details for Knightwood Oak Walk

      Knightwood Oak Walk

      Very Easy
      0.6 km
      16 m
      0.5h

      A visit to the Knightwood Oak is a short but sweet walk that makes for a great addition to a day in the woods. This monumental tree is known as the “Queen of the Forest,” and for a good reason: it's quite a sight as the largest in New Forest! A straightforward gravel path leads to, from, and around the tree, making this walk suitable for outdoor lovers of all ages and abilities.

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      Open details for Westonbirt Arboretum Walk

      Westonbirt Arboretum Walk

      Easy
      7.8 km
      97 m
      1.5-2.5h

      The Westonbirt National Arboretum features trails through a fantastic collection of over 2500 species of trees and plants. Take the circular Westonbirt Arboretum Walk to explore the perimeter trails and the old arboretum. This beautiful nature walk includes the new aerial walkway through the Silk Wood section of the park.

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      Open details for Cairn Gorm and the Northern Corries Walk

      Cairn Gorm and the Northern Corries Walk

      Hard
      11.0 km
      775 m
      4-5.5h

      The Cairn Gorm and the Northern Corries Walk is a thrilling 11.0 km hillwalk, beginning at the Cairngorm Ski Centre in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park near Aviemore, Scotland. With an elevation of 1,244 m (1,245 m), Cairn Gorm is a classified Scottish Munro and is the most popular and most often-walked mountain in the Cairngorms range. Climbing Cairn Gorm is no small feat, and this walk is best reserved for experienced hillwalkers with a good set of navigational skills due to a significant pathless section.

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      Open details for Honister Pass Circular Walk

      Honister Pass Circular Walk

      Moderate
      13.4 km
      794 m
      4.5-6.5h

      The Honister Pass Circular Walk is a rugged adventure in the Lake District that will take you on a long climb through the pass before circling around Fleetwith Pike and Black Star. The route features some dramatic scenery, including the imposing sight of Fleetwith Pike that dominates the landscape surrounding the pass and nearby Buttermere. There is a bit of rugged terrain along this walk, but the spectacular views across the undulating terrain are well worth the effort.

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      Open details for Greenhow Walk

      Greenhow Walk

      Moderate
      10.5 km
      353 m
      3-4h

      The Greenhow Walk is a wonderful option for adventure seekers who want a bit of a challenge. The strenuous route boasts views of the surrounding bleak moorland, where you can discover ancient lead mines. Keep your eyes peeled for different bird species that frequent this area, such as lapwings, snipes and curlews.

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      Open details for Aysgarth Falls Circular Walk

      Aysgarth Falls Circular Walk

      Easy
      4.2 km
      79 m
      1-1.5h

      Exploring the Aysgarth Falls Circular Walk will take you on a magical adventure full of surprises. Wandering along the path, you will see cascading waterfalls, such as the Aysgarth Falls and quiet woodlands. Also, along this path, you will see the ancient Bolton Castle and get to walk along the River Ure.

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      Open details for Hound Tor Walk

      Hound Tor Walk

      Very Easy
      1.0 km
      35 m
      0.5h

      The Hound Tor Walk is a quick and easy adventure in Dartmoor National Park that will lead you uphill for stunning views of the surrounding countryside. While out on the trail, you will climb up the grassy and rock-covered hillside in relatively short order to eventually be subjected to some lovely views that sweep across the undulating terrain of the park. Whether you are a beginner walker or seasoned outdoor enthusiast looking for a short adventure, the Hound Tor Walk is a great option that provides a quick rush.

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