Helvellyn
In the heart of the Lake District lies Helvellyn, voted Britain's most popular walk. Formed by glaciers during the last ice age, Helvellyn is made up of distinctive formations including ridges and corries, adding to the stunning beauty of this peak. Along this walk, keep an eye out for the Lake District’s Herdwick Sheep and a range of birds of prey.
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)
As the highest mountain in Wales, Yr Wyddfa (formerly known as Snowdon) is one of the most popular andscenic peaks to tackle in the UK. Once conquered, have a rest at the cafe and gift shop located at the top of the summit before making your way down. Fancy a challenge? Join the Râs Yr Wyddfa, an annual race to the summit held every July.
Malham & Gordale Scar
Situated in the North Yorkshire Dales National Park along the Craven Fault, this walk is full of natural beauty. You’ll pass the magical Janet’s Foss waterfall and wander through the rugged rocks of Gordale Scar. The route continues alongside the peaceful Malham Tarn, Britain’s highest lake, and circles back around the limestone cliffs of Malham Cove.
Cat Bells
Dubbed ‘The Lair of the Wildcat’, Cat Bells is one of the most popular walks in the Lake District. This walk can be completed at a leisurely pace within a couple of hours, making it a popular trail for families. Following the circular path, you’ll be met with stunning views looking out across Derwent Water and the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Scafell Pike
With around 250,000 hikers ascending the peak every year, Scafell Pike stands as England’s highest mountain and makes up one third of the National Three Peaks Challenge. While making your way along the circular hike path, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views across Wasdale Valley, Borrowdale, and the surrounding Lake District landscape.
Tryfan
Even for experienced hikers, Tryfan is still a challenge. If you’re going to take on this challenge, you need to have lots of experience, the right kit, and be prepared to scramble on your hands and knees along narrow ridges to reach the top. We should also mention that you may come face to face with a feral goat or two. But it’s worth it for the Snowdonia views.
Buttermere
One of the shortest walks on our list, Buttermere is a favourite for families with children and anyone looking for a gentle, leisurely stroll in the picturesque Lake District. The easy, flat footpath circles the entirety of Lake Buttermere, offering views of idyllic woodland, charming farms, and towering dramatic fells.
Old Man of Coniston
The Old Man of Coniston, the highest point in Lancashire and part of the Furness Fells, offers a rewarding hike filled with history and stunning views. The route takes you past the remains of historic copper mines, offering a glimpse into the area’s industrial heritage. Once you’ve reached the summit, you’ll be greeted by the sweeping views of Coniston Water.
Dunstanburgh Castle
The Dunstanburgh Castle walk takes you on a gentle stroll from the fishing village of Craster, along the rugged cliffs of the coast to the historic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle and back. Throughout the entirety of this walk you’ll have stunning scenery to soak in, from the vast North Sea to the impressive Dunstanburgh Castle ruins, visible throughout the whole walk.
Mam Tor
Starting in the quaint village of Castleton, this circular hike will take you up and over Mam Tor. One of the most loved hikes in the Peak District, Mam Tor provides impressive views across Hope Valley, Winnats Pass, Kinder Scout, and the Derwent Moors. For a truly breathtaking experience, ascend to the top of Mam Tor in time to watch the sunrise.
Pen Y Fan
Roughly translated from Welsh as “The Mountain’s Peak” or “Top of the Summit”, Pen Y Fan is the highest peak in the Brecon Beacons National Park. The circular hike takes you from the Storey Arms Car Park, up to the top of Pen Y Fan via Corn Du, with spectacular sweeping views stretching across the surrounding moorland.
Ben Macdui
Imagine standing on top of one of the highest peaks in the UK, fully surrounded by nature with mountain views in every direction. Sounds idyllic right? This is what Ben Macdui offers to the hikers skilled and determined enough to conquer its summit. Located in the Cairngorm National Park in the Highlands of Scotland, Ben Macdui is worth the challenging climb.
South Downs Way
The South Downs Way stretches the length of the South Downs National Park, following the high ground path from Winchester in Hampshire to Eastbourne on the Sussex coast. This walk will take you on a journey past many points of interest including Chanctonbury Ring, Ditchling Beacon, Devil’s Dyke, The Seven Sisters, and Beachy Head.
West Highland Way
West Highland Way was the first designated long distance footpath in Scotland with this hike taking you from Milngavie in Glasgow all the way to Fort William in the Scottish Highlands. Winding past some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes, you’ll get to enjoy views of Loch Lomond, Glen Nevis, Buachaille Etive Mor, and so much more.
Ben Nevis
Ben Nevis is the highest peak in Britain, attracting around 130,000 climbers every year. Located in the Scottish Highlands near Fort William, this challenging hike will take you all the way up to the mountain summit, created by a collapsed dome of an ancient volcano. Are you experienced and brave enough to tackle ‘The Ben’?
Solva
Fancy a gentle walk along the unspoilt Welsh coastline? Starting in the pretty little fishing village of Solva, this walk will take you out past the harbour to the Pembrokeshire coastal path. You’ll follow the coastal path leading to the village of St Davids, making the most of the stunning views across St Bride’s Bay along the way.
Whitby
Beginning in the heart of Whitby Old Town, this walk will take you up past St Mary’s Church and the ruin of Whitby Abbey, famously featured in Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Continue your walk along the coastal path, following the trail south until you reach the charming fishing village of Robin Hood’s Bay. Be warned that this path may get muddy in the winter.
Hadrian's Wall
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hadrian’s Wall is a must when it comes to Britain’s best walks. Constructed in the 2nd century AD and marking the North Western frontier of the Roman Empire, this walk is full of history. The circular walk follows the wall along from Housesteads Roman fort, past Sycamore Gap and back.
Old Harry Rocks
Old Harry Rocks, marking the easternmost point of the Jurassic Coast UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a striking series of three chalk formations jutting out from Handfast Point. On a clear day, walk along this scenic coastal trail for a chance to spot seals, pods of bottlenose dolphins, and a variety of seabirds like Cormorants and Black-backed Gulls.
Lizard Peninsula
Head down to Cornwall and take a walk around the most southern part of mainland Britain. This coastal path will take you past quaint fishing harbours, pretty sandy bays, and fascinating historical sights. Also popular with wildlife enthusiasts, you’ll often be able to spot rare birds taking a break after flying for miles at sea.
Kinder Scout
Located in the heart of the Peak District, the circular Kinder Scout walk starts and ends in the village of Edale. Along this walk you can enjoy birdwatching across the restored peatlands, wander through ancient woodland, hike past the stunning rock formations along Kinder Edge, and take in the wide views across the Vale of Edale.
Stac Pollaidh
If breathtaking, picturesque landscapes are what you’re after, Stac Pollaidh won’t disappoint. Nestled in the Northwest Highlands of Scotland, this circular hike ascends the unique rocky peak of Stac Pollaidh, rewarding you with sweeping views over the Assynt Coigach area, nearby lochs, and the distant Summer Isles.
Roseberry Topping
To kick off this circular walk, you’ll visit Captain Cook’s Monument before circling round to climb Roseberry Topping. Sometimes referred to as the mini-Matterhorn, this isn’t your average hill. Its half cone shape forms a distinctive cliffedge across the top of the hill and is surrounded by beautiful woodland and moorland.
St Ives to Zennor
Starting in the historic harbour village of St Ives, this walk takes you on an adventure along the dramatic Cornish coastline to Zennor. The path follows the rocky shore, regularly interrupted by sandy bays and a little fishing harbour. Once at Zennor Head, enjoy the panoramic coastal views before heading back to St Ives through the idyllic countryside.
Ingleborough
Ingleborough is the second-highest peak in the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, offering views as far as Manod Mawr in Snowdonia on very clear days. Forming part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, this trail leads you through the Ingleborough National Nature Reserve, passing by the impressive Gaping Gill cave and waterfall.
Dovedale to Milldale
Winding its way through the limescale gorge along the River Dove, this walk includes a range of magical features. From the gentle flow of water and stepping stones across the river to hidden caves and views of Thorpe Cloud, this walk really allows you to connect with the tranquillity and peacefulness of nature.
Coffin Route, Ambleside
One of the shorter walks on our list, this walk is full of history. Coffin Route starts in Ambleside and takes you along the route coffins were carried on their final journey to St Oswald’s Church, hence the name. Along this walk, you’ll also pass two of the former homes of poet William Wordsworth and be met with some pretty views across Rydal Water.
Rhossili
Nestled in the Gower Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the south coast of Wales, the quaint village of Rhossili marks the start of this circular walk. The path leads along the seafront before turning inland and ascending to reveal breathtaking views of endless blue water and sandy beaches. The trail then loops back toward the seafront and Rhossili.
The Needles
The Needles, a row of three chalk stacks rising 30 metres out of the sea, lie on the west coast of the Isle of Wight. Take the cliffside coastal path past scenic and historic sites like the Headon Warren, Tennyson Monument, and the viewpoint for The Needles. You could even take a break from your walk to go down the chairlift for a different viewpoint of The Needles.
High Cup Nick
Hidden on the western side of the North Pennines lies a U shaped valley, nicknamed The Grand Canyon of the Pennines. Officially called High Cup Nick, this valley is thought to have formed from ice age glaciers. Today you can take the circular hike up to Dufton Fell, and enjoy the views as you climb down through High Cup Nick on the way back to Dufton.
Beddgelert
Situated just south of Yr Wyddfa, the charming Welsh village of Beddgelert is the starting point for this scenic walk. The Beddgelert trail leads you through dramatic valleys and alongside the idyllic Afon Glaslyn. Near the walk’s end, take a moment to visit the monument for the village’s namesake, the beloved dog Bedd Gelert from Welsh legend.
Anglesey Coastal Walk
The Anglesey Coastal Walk offers something for everyone, winding through diverse landscapes including woodlands, farmland, sand dunes, salt marshes, and cliffs. As the second-longest walk on our list, this trail takes an average of 12 days to complete. The 20 towns and villages along the way are perfect for some much-needed rest before continuing the journey.
The Fairy Pools
On the Isle of Skye in the Highlands of Scotland, you’ll find tranquillity at The Fairy Pools at the foot of the Black Cuillin Mountains. Attracting walkers and open water swimming enthusiasts, these pools and waterfalls along the Allt Coir’ a’ Mhadaidh (Burn of the Dog) are popular for taking a dip in the clear icy waters.
Brimham Rocks
Starting in Bedlam, this walk takes you through woodlands and moors, leading to the impressive Brimham Rocks. Designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest, these massive gritstone formations were sculpted by an immense river that flowed through what is now the Nidderdale National Landscape roughly 100 million years before the first dinosaurs inhabited Earth.
Bempton Cliffs
The Yorkshire coast is known for its dramatic cliffs and charming seaside towns. This circular trail will take you along these towering chalk cliffs up to Flamborough Head and back through the town of Flamborough. Along the way you’ll pass the remains of a RAF radio station, a lighthouse, and the largest mainland seabird colony.
High Force
High Force is England’s biggest waterfall with a drop of 21 metres into the plunge pool below. Located in the heart of the Durham Dales in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the circular route from the village of Bowlees leads you through scenic countryside and along the River Tees, passing both High Force and Low Force Falls.
Stanage Edge
The Peak District is full of dramatic landscapes including the rugged gritstone escarpment of Stanage Edge, near the historical village of Hathersage. With its panoramic views stretching across the Dark Peak moorland, Hope Valley, and out into the Derbyshire countryside, it’s not hard to see why this trail is so popular with walkers and rock climbers.
Ingleton Falls
The Ingleton Falls trail first opened in 1885 and is full of charm. Along the first half of the walk, you’ll follow the River Twiss upstream passing The Money Tree and Thornton Force Waterfall. You’ll then circle across to the River Doe. Following the river downstream, you’ll have the joy of walking past Beezley Falls and the wooded Baxenghyll Gorge.
The Malvern Hills
Located near the western border of Worcestershire, The Malvern Hills boast stunning views across the Cotswolds. The trail path explores the northern Malverns by taking you on a journey from Great Malvern, up and over Summer Hill, before snaking around Sugarloaf Hill, Table Hill, North Hill, and back to Great Malvern.
Pitlochry to Blair Atholl
Starting in Pitlochry, if visiting between April and August, check out the Pitlochry Dam and salmon leaping up the Fish Ladder. Once on the trail, you’ll walk alongside the River Tummel through Faskally Forest, then follow the River Garry upstream, entering The Cairngorms National Park before arriving at the Highland village of Blair Atholl.
Pitlochry to Blair Atholl Route
Grosmont
You’ll begin this adventure next to the Harry Potter and Heartbeat filming location, Goathland Railway Station. Meandering around the village sheep and out into the Yorkshire countryside, you’ll pass many farms before entering Craig Cliff Wood. The walk ends in Grosmont with the option to take the North York Moors Heritage Railway back to Goathland.
Four Waterfalls Walk
Best enjoyed in spring and autumn, the Four Waterfalls walk in the Brecon Beacons National Park takes you on a magical journey. Wander along tree-lined paths beside the Afon Hepste, where you'll discover four of Wales’ most picturesque waterfalls: Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd Isaf Clun-Gwyn, Sgwd y Pannwr, and Sgwd yr Eira.
Offa's Dyke
Stretching from the Sedbury Cliffs near Chepstow on the southern England-Wales border to the seaside town of Prestatyn in North Wales, this trail spans almost the whole length of Wales. Passing through eight counties, three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and crossing between England and Wales over 20 times, it offers a rich variety of landscapes and terrains.
Wells-next-the-Sea
As a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, it’s no surprise that this circular walk is rich in natural beauty. From the sandy shores of Holkham Beach and pathways through pine woodlands to bird hides and protected wildlife habitats, Wells-next-the-Sea offers one of the prettiest walks on the North Norfolk coast.
Arthur's Seat
In the centre of the Scottish capital, Edinburgh, lies the plug of an ancient volcano. Starting next to Holyrood Abbey and the Scottish Parliament Building, this walk will take you along Salisbury Crags, and up Crow Hill before reaching the top of Arthur’s Seat. Once you’ve finished admiring the views, follow the path back down through Holyrood Park.
Carding Mill Valley
Situated in the Shropshire Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Carding Mill Valley circular trail takes you past heather-covered hills, through quaint hamlets, and along babbling streams. This area is a treasure for geologists, archaeologists, and wildlife lovers alike, so take your time and enjoy the rich birdlife and sweeping views.
Derry City Walls Walk
Taking you out of the countryside and into the city, the Derry City Walls walk is stuffed full of history and unique charm. Derry is the only walled city in Ireland, with its walls dating back around 400 years and varying from 12 to 35 feet wide. As the shortest walk on this list, it offers plenty of time to take in the scenic views of Derry and the River Foyle.
The Ridgeway
Join the many adventurers who came before you by walking the 5000 year old Ridgeway trail. Snaking through two designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (North Wessex Downs and Chilterns), you’ll pass many interesting landmarks and archaeological monuments including Hackpen White Horse, Wayland’s Smithy, and Uffington Castle.
Mawgan Porth to Harlyn
Take a trip back in time to walk in the footsteps of smugglers and pirates on the North Cornish coast. This trail offers every element of coastal walking, from sandy beaches and hidden coves to towering cliffs and the rock stacks of Bedruthan. Along the way, keep an eye out for sea life and birdlife including razorbills and guillemots.
The Cheviot
Located in Northumberland National Park on the border between England and Scotland, The Cheviot emerges from Harthope Valley as the highest hill in Northumberland. Formed millions of years ago, this extinct volcanic trail can be challenging. Ensure you come prepared for steep climbs, sharp descents, and wet, boggy terrain along the way.