10 Incredible Hiking Trails | The Wild Side of Britain

Are you looking for a unique way to explore the vast beauty of Britain? Then why not try out one of the incredible hiking trails in the UK? From mountain peaks to hidden valleys, there’s something for everyone, no matter your level of fitness. Read on to discover ten amazing places to hike and explore in Great Britain!

Introduction

If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and explore the wild side of Britain, there are plenty of incredible hiking trails to choose from. Whether you want to tackle a challenging mountain hike or stroll through picturesque countryside, there’s a trail for everyone.

To help you plan your next hiking adventure, we’ve put together a list of some of the best hiking trails in the UK. From Scotland’s stunning West Highland Way to England’s classic Coast to Coast walk, there’s something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Grab your walking boots and explore the great outdoors!

The Peak District, Derbyshire

The Peak District is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the United Kingdom. Located in Derbyshire, this area is known for its dramatic landscapes and stunning views. There are a variety of trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. No matter what your fitness level, you can find a hike that’s right for you.

One of the most popular trails in the Peak District is the Monsal Trail. This 6-mile (10km) trail follows an old railway line through picturesque countryside. Along the way, you’ll pass through tunnels and over viaducts with breathtaking views. The Monsal Trail is perfect for a leisurely day hike or a longer bike ride.

For something a little more challenging, try the Edale Skyline hike. This 9-mile (14km) route takes you to the top of some of the highest peaks in the Peak District, including Kinder Scout. The Edale Skyline is a strenuous hike with some steep sections, but it’s worth it for the incredible views at the top.

If you’re looking for an even bigger challenge, attempt all 282 miles (455km) of the Pennine Way. This long-distance trail runs from Derbyshire all the way up to Scotland, crossing moorland, valleys, and mountains along the way. It’s one of Britain’s most popular hiking trails and takes around two weeks to complete.

The South West Coast Path, Devon and Cornwall

The South West Coast Path is a 630-mile (1,014 km) long-distance footpath in England. It stretches from Minehead in Somerset, along the coasts of Devon and Cornwall, to Poole Harbour in Dorset. The path is waymarked with a series of acorn symbols.

The South West Coast Path National Trail was created in 1971 as one of Britain’s first ever coastal walks. It has since been extended and improved and is now England’s longest National Trail.

The trail follows the coast for almost its entire length, with only a few inland detours. This means that walkers are never far from stunning sea views, whether they are walking along cliff tops, through sheltered coves or along vast stretches of golden sand.

There are also plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. Seals can often be seen basking on rocks or swimming in the waves, while dolphins and porpoises are sometimes seen offshore. Birdwatchers will be rewarded with sightings of seabirds such as gannets, kittiwakes and guillemots, as well as rarer birds such as peregrine falcons and red kites.

With so much to see and enjoy, it’s no wonder that the South West Coast Path is one of Britain’s most popular walking trails.

The Pennine Way, Yorkshire and Cumbria

The Pennine Way is a long-distance footpath in England that runs for 268 miles (431 km) from Derbyshire in the Peak District to Cumbria in the Lake District. The route was conceived by Tom Stephenson in 1935, and officially opened in 1965. It is one of the UK’s National Trails, and has been voted Britain’s favourite walk.

The Pennine Way passes through some of Britain’s most spectacular scenery, including the Peak District, Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland National Park. The highest point on the trail is Cross Fell at 2,929 ft (893 m). Along the way, there are many opportunities to enjoy traditional English countryside pursuits such as fishing, shooting and bird watching.

The Pennine Way is a challenging hike, but well worth the effort for those who love the outdoors. With its stunning scenery and rich wildlife, it is an unforgettable experience.

Snowdonia National Park, Wales

Snowdonia National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Wales. The park covers 823 square miles and includes Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales. The park has a wide range of activities for visitors including hiking, climbing, camping, and water sports.

The Lake District, Cumbria

The Lake District is a stunning region of the UK and one of the best places to go for a hike. With its beautiful lakes, picturesque villages and incredible scenery, it’s no wonder that it’s such a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

There are plenty of great hiking trails to explore in the Lake District, so you’ll never be short on options. Whether you want to tackle a challenging mountain hike or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the countryside, there’s something for everyone.

Here are just a few of the best hiking trails in the Lake District:

1. Helvellyn via Striding Edge – This classic Lake District hike takes you up England’s third highest mountain, Helvellyn. The route takes you along Striding Edge, a narrow ridge with impressive views on either side. It’s not for the faint-hearted but it’s definitely worth it for the views from the top!

2. Orrest Head – This short but sweet hike takes you to the summit of Orrest Head, one of the best viewpoints in the Lake District. The trail is easy to follow and relatively gentle, making it perfect for families or those looking for an easy walk.

3. Langdale Pikes – For breathtaking views of some of the Lake District’s most iconic mountains, head to Langdale Pikes.

Ben Nevis, Scotland

If you’re looking for an incredible hiking trail in the UK, look no further than Ben Nevis in Scotland. Standing at a whopping 1,346 metres (4,411 feet), Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The hike to the summit of Ben Nevis is not for the faint-hearted, but it’s definitely worth it. The trail winds its way up through rocky terrain and takes around 4-5 hours to complete. However, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can always try your hand at climbing one of the many routes up the mountain.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a complete beginner, Ben Nevis is definitely worth adding to your bucket list.

Hadrian’s Wall Path, Northumberland and Cumbria

If you’re looking for an adventure in the UK, look no further than Hadrian’s Wall Path. This 84-mile trail will take you through some of the most stunning scenery in England, from the rugged coastline of Northumberland to the beautiful Lake District.

The trail is named after Hadrian’s Wall, a Roman fortification that once stretched across the width of England. Today, the wall is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for hikers and history buffs alike.

Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or a leisurely stroll, Hadrian’s Wall Path has something for everyone. So pack your hiking boots and get ready to explore the wild side of Britain!

Coastal Path

If you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, there’s no better place to find it than on the coast. Britain is home to some of the most stunning coastline in the world, and what better way to appreciate it than by taking a hike along one of its many coastal paths?

There are hundreds of miles of coastal path to explore in the UK, so you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to finding the perfect route for you. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike with breathtaking views, or a gentle stroll along a sheltered beach, there’s sure to be a coastal path that’s perfect for you.