There are undoubtedly more routes for walking in the United Kingdom than you can explore in a lifetime and many experienced walkers will have their own favourites and never-ending bucket lists of places to visit. So to help narrow down the choices here at Gear Guru we have put together a guide for our Top 5 Walking Destinations in the UK that we think everyone should see at least once in their life.
The Lake District
The Lakes are the largest National Park in England and home to not only a great number of fells and pikes, but as the name suggests; lakes as well. England’s highest peak; Scafell pike is here along with Windermere, the largest lake, and Wastwater; the deepest, so at least these should be experienced. You can hike Scafell Pike in a few hours and there are a number of walking trails that incorporate a few different fells in one go if you like a challenge. On the lakes you can take part in varying watersports, plus there are quite a number of cycle routes across the Lakes as well, both of which are great ways of exploring the area.
Snowdonia
Snowdonia National Park in North Wales is filled with plenty of challenging hikes and climbs to undertake. Mount Snowdon has the highest peak to reach and has more than one route around the summit to explore that takes in the historic Snowdon Mountain Railway via the Llanberis Path, plus for a real challenge hiking the Miner’s and Pyg tracks are a must. Of course there are many other peaks to explore all offering unique adventures of their own with stunning views as you climb. Alternatively the Llyn Coast section of the Wales Coast Path offers an easier walk with breathtaking coastal views but makes up for it in distance.
The Peak District
Featuring hikes and walks for any ability, the Peak District really does have something for everyone. Casual strolls that take in the numerous villages and towns along the way are ideal for families, whereas there are plenty of longer distance walking trails along with the hikes and climbs up the various crags, hills and peaks for the more experienced walker. The Peak District has a number of guided walks that can be undertaken throughout the year and you’ll often find other outdoor lovers making their way along them. For other activities there are plenty of lakes for watersports, cycle routes and an extensive cave system to explore as well.
Scottish Highlands
Even more so than the Peaks, the Scottish Highlands have an abundance of walking options that range from a casual afternoon stroll to a multi-day expedition experience so there really is something for all abilities. There are stunning views everywhere you turn and much to explore in regard to a rich history and heritage of the area. There are regular Walking Festivals in the Highlands and even dedicated holiday packages for walking as well so you can have all routes planned out before you arrive. Certain areas allow wild camping as well so you can spend days walking a trail and relax of an evening surrounded by nature.
Dartmoor
Often described as the image of an idyllic English countryside, the Dartmoor National Park has been used for a number of filming locations throughout the years and was famously the inspiration by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s ‘The Hound of The Baskervilles’. There are around 450 miles of walks here to explore, some of which have disabled access, others bus stops nearby and many are guided that take you through the rich heritage of the area. As Dartmoor is much lower in elevation that our other Top 5 UK Walking Destinations there are less strenuous climbs, but quite long routes that are perfect if you want more of a challenge. Dartmoor also offers a lot of cycling, riding and climbing opportunities, plus is the only place in England where you can go wild camping.
Any of our Top 5 Walking Destinations in the UK will have enough to cater towards any walker, hiker or rambler in terms of a challenge and unmissable scenery to take in.