Top recommended places to hike in the UK
The UK might not have the in highest mountains the world or even in Europe, but it sure has breathtaking views. The UK, the birthplace of Shakespeare and The Beatles, has more to it than culture, music, and extraordinary nature. Ranging from mountain hikes to historical walking routes along coastal cliffs or just a scenic detour, the UK will have you fall in love with Mother Nature.
Hiking is the ultimate outdoor exercise, putting nature and fitness together to bring out a whole different meaning to the term workout. Those who have a fitness app and are counting your calories burning (like myself): one mile of hiking burns approximately over 500 calories (which is pretty awesome).
As we know, England is known for its rainy days, so packaging good and checking the weather prior is always a good idea! This post will give you the best places to go hiking in the UK, whether you’re looking for something challenging or a stroll to make unforgettable memories and take great photos. Now the question is, which hike would you choose?
St Ives to Zennor, Cornwall, South West England
Timing: 4 hours Distance: 7 mile
A beautiful walk down the coastal path of St Ives to Zennor. This beautiful route for hikers or those looking for a lovely walk can be tricky with some parts climbing over rocks. This route provided extraordinary views of the sea the entire way along; you would think you’re in the Caribbean! This section of the South Coast follows the ins and outs of the inlands and headlands, having you experience life on the edge.
Starting your route from the west side of Porthmeor Beach, St Ives. You can start the walk by climbing up rocks from the beach or by simply following the path around; further down the route, you might have to tackle some up and down but don’t let this distract you from the view. As you approach Zennor, you’ll be tackled by large boulders but once passed, it will be smooth sailing to where you’ll find a local pub making the journey worthwhile. There are busses from Zennor back to St Ive’s for those considering a more relaxed journey back.
I recommend a bite to eat before the journey from any of the lovely pasty shops downtown, or even better, grab a takeaway and enjoy it somewhere up the coast overseeing the sea. If lucky, you might get the opportunity to see a shark!
Scafell Pike, Lake District, Cumbria, North England
Timing: 3-5 hours. Distance: 7 miles
The highest mountain in England, at 978m, makes this a must climb mountain on most hikers “to-do list”. It also has extraordinary views and is known as a war memorial, cared for by the National Trust. Scafell Pike is very popular with charity events and is part of the famous Three Peaks Challenge Snowdown (1085m) and Ben Nevis (1345m).
Scafell Pike is located at Lake District, North West of England, an area well known for its stunning scenery and wonderful hikes. I recommend setting out in the morning (a little before 10 am) to give yourself enough time to arrive back down for lunch.
There are a few different routes up the mountain, but the shortest and most popular one is from Wasdale Head, a path that the majority take – not just for the free parking available. The walk starts with a wander alongside the river (therefore it’s near enough impossible you’ll make it with dry feet, so a good pair of walking shoes goes a long way!) leading to views of stunning valleys, lakes and mountains.
Scafell Pike is a popular climb, so that I would recommend the following:
- Starting early to avoid the crowd and finding car parking space.
- Climbing during the summer for good weather and avoiding the atmospheric fog
- Travel light with minimal people (hard to keep track of a large group when ascending).
- Stick to the recommended paths provided to avoid getting lost and damaging the landscape
Mam Tor, Peak District, North England
Timing: 1-2 hours. Distance 5mile
Those travelling from London with limited time on their hands might prefer travelling to Peak District rather than Lake District due to the nearer distance. Don’t let this sadden you; Peak District is the first national park created in the UK and stretches to more than 1,800miles, providing unique hiking locations for those looking for a hilly adventure or scenic walking destinations.
Those looking for stunning views and a good old-fashioned walk would enjoy the 5mile stretch to the top of Mam Tor (which originated from the term Mother Hill) and known by the locals as the “The Shivering Mountain”, one of the most popular walks in the region. This iconic mountain standing tall at 517m, sits on the edge of the Dark Peak and the White Peak and the gorge at Winnats Pass.
This well-organised path with solid foundations makes it easy to navigate your way around. Keeping in mind works within this vicinity has been going on since the Bronze Age! solid foundations make the climb more doable during the warmer and colder days. Time can be of the essence, so if you happen to have some free time, you can take a detour from Mam Tor to enjoy Castleton and visit the caves such as Cliff Cavern, Blue John Cavern, and Peak Cavern.
Snowdon, Snowdonia, Wales
Timing: 5-7hours. Distance 8miles.
Snowdonia National Park may not be the largest National Park in the UK, but it sure has the largest lake in Wales, and it has Snowdon, which is the largest mountain in both England and Wales. Snowdonia, where you can find paths to lead you towards mountains, lakes, rivers, estuaries, ancient woodland, historical built villages, and so much more.
It’s no surprise that the 1,085m mountain has several paths for you to reach the top: the Watkin Path, Miners’ Track, Llanberis path(that follows the railway line), Pyg Track, Rhyd-Ddu Path or the Snowdon Ranger Path.
The Miners track was initially built to carry copper is the most popular route. The 8-mile trail starts by Pen-y-Pass car park and eases its way up through the gravel path, providing a scenic journey of Snowdonia’s nature. The route starts with views of lakes and carefully laid out stones to eventually a more challenging course of larger rocks and a higher gradient but no need to worry as no hands are required!
Interesting fact: You can find a rare flower on Snowdon, known as “The Snowdon Lily“. Classified as London rarest plant is an Arctic–alpine flower of the lily family.
Yorkshire Three Peaks, Pennine Range
Distance: 24miles Time: 11-12 hours
If you’re looking for a challenge, look no further than the three peaks of Yorkshire, taking on Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough (usually in that order), located in Yorkshire Dales National Park, includes a walk that ascents over 1600m, classifying it as a challenging hike.
Hadrian's Wall Path (Chollerford to Birdoswald), Northumberland and Cumbria
Distance: 23miles Time: 6-8 hours.
One of Britain’s ancient and spectacular monuments, spanning approximately 84miles! Originally built by the Romans to separate them from the “barbarian” Scottish Picts. Now classified as part of UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The most popular (and best section) to walk in this path is the 20-mile stretch between Chollerford to Birdoswald Fort. This path is hilly, with high gradients, but the outcome is surreal, leading to views of Pennines and Lake District. This path is worth doing over a weekend, and make sure to visit (if you have the time) the Roman Army Museum at Carvoran.
Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door Hike
Timing: 2hours. Distance: 1.5miles
Durdle Door a beautiful rock formation and one of Dorset’s iconic landmarks. It is part of the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lulworth Cove, a stunning horseshoe-shaped beach caused over time by the sea forces and part of the Jurassic Coast.
A weekend away to Lulworth Cove makes it a perfect gateway; the 1.3mile walk commences from Lulworth Cove car park, rising gradually to the top of the cliffs to Durdle Door. During the walk, you’ll be able to view beautiful limestone cliffs from a distance, secret beaches within coves and field with stretch for miles, making it a unique walk like no other.
Within 30-45mins you’ll find yourself emerging over the five-star image of the natural arch of the Jurassic Coast, formed from erosion by the sea and winds over time. Then you can decide whether you want to stay on top of the cliffs or head down to Durdle Door Beach to look upon the cliffs, or if you’re feeling spontaneous, you can take a jump in the water!
West Highland Way – Scotland
Distance: 96miles. Time: 5-10days (averaging seven days for most)
The West Highland Way is well recognised as not only one of the best hikes in Scotland, but in the UK, the beauty of the West Highland Way is on a different kind of level. It goes through some of the most iconic landscapes in the Scottish Highlands, from Milngavie, north of Glasgow, to Fort William.
The West Highland Way is a serious hike that runs at 96mile so it’s good to have hiking experience under your belt as you will most likely experience rough weather on rocky terrain.
The hike usually takes a max of 10 days, although most people tend to finish it in a week. This hike can be split into sections for ease. The most rewarding route within the areas is the most challenging route, this being Kingshouse to Fort William at 22miles, finishing by stunning mountain Ben Nevis. Those interested in breaking the trips into segments can follow the guide here; Hiking in Glasgow.
