Best Walking Holidays in the UK
Walking has so many health benefits and is a great way to discover new destinations. I love walking and being outside in the elements, surrounded by nature. After a long day of hiking there’s nothing better than bedding down in a charming local pub or hotel, eating good food and having a drink or two. I’ve done lots of research into the best places to walk in the UK and some of my favourite places are the South Downs, Snowdonia, the South West Coast Path, the marshes and fenlands of Norfolk and the Surrey Hills. But there are so many beautiful walking routes in the UK to choose from. Where would you like to go?
South Downs National Park
At 100 miles long, the South Downs Way has something for everyone, with pathways running from Winchester in Hampshire to Eastbourne in East Sussex. Expect dramatic chalk downland, rolling hills, farmland, pretty villages and exhilarating sea views.
If you’re finishing the walk in Eastbourne you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the Seven Sisters, one of the UK’s best natural wonders. Rising to around 200 metres above sea level, it’s an awe-inspiring walk that’s well worth the effort. It’s steep in parts and the cliffs are prone to erosion so remember to stay well away from the edge. There are plenty of accommodation and eating options along the way – contact me to plan your ideal itinerary.
Snowdonia National Park
It can be tricky to know where to start looking for the best walks in Snowdonia National Park, so let me help you decide. Base yourself in the national park itself or maybe you’d prefer to stay in the whimsical, Italian-inspired village of Portmeirion or Betws-y-Coed, a pretty village that’s surrounded by Gwydir Forest Park. Staying here feels like staying in an alpine hideaway and there are plenty of walking trails right on your doorstep if you don’t want to venture too far.
Of course, most people come here to climb Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa), Wales’ highest mountain standing at 1,085 meters. You could also climb Wales’ second highest peak, Cader Idris, or take a wild and windy walk to The Devil’s Kitchen. Located in the Ogwen Valley beside Llyn Idwal, the two-hour walk takes you through the nature reserve, around the lake and up into the boulder fields near the top of Glyder Fawr and Y Garn. It’s one of the best walks in Snowdonia and suits all levels of walkers.
South West Coast Path
If you like a walking route that hugs England’s rugged coastline, walks don’t get much better than the South West Coast Path. The longest of England’s National Trails, the path offers 630 miles of the best coastal walks in the UK. Trace the footsteps of tin miners, smugglers and fisherman on this UK walking route that has history, culture, intrigue, nature and some of the best views in the UK.
The path starts in Minehead in Somerset, takes you to Land’s End – right at the tip of the UK – and along the south coast to Poole in Dorset. My favourite section of the walk is near Zennor in Cornwall. Along this dramatic stretch of the path you’ll be rewarded with unrivalled views of the mighty Atlantic, discover hidden coves and beaches and find yourself immersed in wildlife. Make sure you stop at The Tinners Arms, Zennor’s ancient village pub that’s like stepping back in time. If you want to discover more about Cornwall’s rich mining heritage and see some of the county’s oldest surviving tin mines, walk the Tin Coast, located between Pendeen and St Just.
Discover our travel concierge service
If you’d like to discover the best walking holidays in the UK, get in touch today. I can advise you on the best routes, areas, walking guides, places to stay, pubs and restaurants, just email info@travelyoutopia.com. I’ll ask you to complete a detailed briefing form then get to work creating a unique itinerary for a holiday to remember.