Summer in the United Kingdom provides the ideal time to get out and explore on a hike, but there are undoubtedly more routes than time in the day. We hope you’ll have your own bucket list of places and areas to explore, but we’re helping narrow down the choice with our Gear Guru guide to the Top 5 Summer Walking Destinations featuring alternative spots we think everyone should explore.
Cornwall
Cornwall is one of the UK’s most popular holiday destinations, with the mild climate and picturesque landscapes providing ideal backdrops for a number of walking routes. Casual strolls through harbour towns and villages such as Boscastle and Mevagissey are ideal for family walks, but there are plenty of longer hikes for experienced walkers. The 6 mile Land’s End walk is ideal for bucket list views and we’d recommend the 6 mile coastal walk between Mousehole and Lamorna Valley with the mix of picturesque harbour towns, meadows, woodlands and coastal paths.
Pembrokeshire
This coastal county in the Southwest of Wales is an ideal destination for an active break, with surf and kayak spots as well as plenty of walking routes. St Davids, the UK’s smallest city, is an ideal place to stay, providing opportunities all around the county. The Green Bridge of Wales is an iconic landmark, Tenby is a pretty walled harbour town, and Skomer Island is famous for their puffin colony. A hike from Stackpole to St Govan’s Head features some incredible natural views aside from the Green Bridge of Wales, including Stack Rocks and coastal cliffs.
Northumberland
Bracing and beautiful, Northumberland is filled with ancient castles, picturesque islands and rugged moorland. With Northumberland National Park, Hadrian’s Wall and Cheviot Hills, there’s even more than just the coast to explore in this area. However, the Craster to Low Newton coastal walk gives you a taste of the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, whilst passing along Embleton bay.
Peak District
The Peak District National Park is packed with incredible walking routes along a diverse range of landscapes. Whether you’re looking for the quaint town of Matlock, a trip to Chatsworth or through some iconic landscapes, there’s something for everyone. We love the 6 mile walk from Bakewell to Chatsworth House. Don’t forget a traditional Bakewell tart!
Cambridgeshire
Aside from walking tours in historic Cambridge, this area of the UK features some incredibly unique walking spots. A favourite walk is named after Octavia Hill, one of the founders of the National Trust. The Wicken Fen Octavia Hill trail was created as a part of a nature reserve that protects the original fen, creating more space for people and wildlife. As a result, the 6 mile walk features lots of birds of prey, horses, a unique bridge and ponds.