Best walking trails in Britain
Now is the perfect time to get on your feet and go out walking.
Whether you’re planning a long-distance trek or a one-day adventure, these gorgeous walking trails won’t disappoint.
The Cotswolds Way
This iconic walking route stretches more than 100 miles along the Cotswold Edge, from Chipping Campden and Bath. Perhaps the most quintessentially British walking path of all, it showcases the region’s rolling green hills, picturesque market towns and historic sites, including Neolithic burial mound Belas Knap.
Whether you choose to walk the entire path, staying at village inns and B&Bs along the way, or plan a day trip along a certain leg of the route, it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Hadrian’s Wall Path
In addition to being Northern England’s most visited attraction, Hadrian’s Wall is also home to one of the country’s best walking paths. The famous Roman ruin, built in AD 122 during the rule of emperor Hadrian, is flanked by a scenic walking trail stretching from Wallsend in the east to Bowness-on-Solway in the west.
The 84-mile footpath is popular with long-distance walkers and day-hikers alike. It’s relatively flat and very well sign-posted. In addition to the wall itself and several Roman forts, the trail also takes you through the scenic Solway salt marshes, known for their wildlife.
The West Highland Way
Scotland’s premier long-distance footpath runs 96 miles from Milngavie to Fort William through, as the name implies, the country’s scenic western highlands. Among its many stunning views are the valleys and hills of Glen Coe.
The path finishes at the foot of Britain’s tallest peak, Ben Nevis, with the route’s more ambitious trekkers summiting the mountain as a grand finale. However, for a less arduous journey, many choose to only walk a portion of the route (there are 13 main legs, which vary in length and difficulty).
Lizard Peninsula
The three sides of ‘The Lizard’, mainland Britain’s most southerly point, comprise one of the most spectacular portions of the massive 360-mile route known as the South West Coast Path. The 3.9-mile Lizard coastal loop begins and ends at Lizard Village Green and takes you along the peninsula’s stunning perimeter, with plenty of wildflowers, seabirds and ocean views to keep you entertained.
In addition to the incredible natural scenery, the journey takes you past the famous Lizard Lifeboat Station and the historic Lizard Lighthouse.
Which scenic walks would you recommend?
