Best Hikes in the UK: 16 Scenic Walking Trails

Are you looking for the best hikes in the UK? Here are 16 scenic routes suitable for beginners, including short and circular trails. No matter where you are on your hiking journey, this guide has something for everyone!

Embarking on a hiking adventure in the United Kingdom is like stepping into a living tapestry with diverse landscapes, ancient history and breathtaking views.

From the imposing peaks of the Scottish Highlands to the coastal charms of Cornwall, the UK boasts a wide range of hiking trails catering to the abilities of every adventurer.

Whether you are a seasoned trekker seeking the challenge of remote wilderness or a casual walker eager for picturesque strolls, the United Kingdom has something extraordinary to offer.

Join us as we reveal the 16 best hiking trails in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, where each step becomes a journey through nature and every summit reveals a new chapter in the story of the British outdoors.

So lace up your boots, breathe in the fresh air and let the exploration begin! 🥾

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Overview: 16 epic hikes in the UK

1- Hadrian’s Wall Path, Northumberland
2- The Lizard Coastal Walk, Cornwall
3- Scafell Pike Corridor Route, Lake District
4- Mam Tor Circular Walk, Peak District
5- South Downs Way, South England
6- Snowdon Llanberis Path, Wales
7- Cheddar Gorge Trail, Somerset
8- Coast to Coast Path, North England

9- Malham Landscape Trail, Yorkshire Dales
10- Causeway Coast Way, Northern Ireland
11- The Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye
12- Cotswold Way, Gloucestershire
13- Pembrokeshire Coast Path, Wales
14- West Highland Way, Scotland
15- Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge
16- Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland

Want more inspiration for your UK trip? Check out this article:
The 15 UK National Parks: Complete Guide

Most scenic UK hikes – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

16 breathtaking hiking trails in the UK

Put on your hiking boots and discover the 16 most scenic hikes in the UK. Some may be considered moderate and challenging, but all are relatively easy to complete, even for less experienced walkers. And remember, you can always personalise your walk or retrace your steps to make it shorter.

1- Hadrian’s Wall Path, Northumberland

Start: Wallsend, Tyne and Wear
End: Bowness-on-Solway, Cumbria
Length: 84 miles (135 km)
Difficulty: moderate

The Hadrian’s Wall path is a long-distance hiking trail in northern England that follows the route of Hadrian’s Wall, a historic Roman fortification built in the 2nd century AD.

The route stretches for around 84 miles from Wallsend in the east to Bowness-on-Solway in the west, passing through varied landscapes such as rolling countryside, rugged moorland and picturesque villages.

This moderate trail offers a rewarding experience for those interested in Roman history and scenic landscapes, as you can explore well-preserved sections of the ancient wall, forts and castles along the way whilst enjoying breathtaking views.

HADRIAN’S WALL HIKING TRAIL – MAP

2- The Lizard Coastal Walk, Cornwall

Start: Kynance Cove
End: Same as starting point
Length: 7 miles (11.2 km)
Difficulty: easy

The Lizard Coastal Walk is a scenic coastal path on the Lizard Peninsula in Cornwall, England. This picturesque trail offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, sandy coves and the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

The hike takes you along the South West Coast Path, passing landmarks such as the Lizard Point, the southernmost tip of mainland Britain. Along the way, enjoy the diversity of flora and fauna, including wildflowers and seabirds, and charming fishing villages like Cadgwith.

The Lizard Coastal Walk provides a rejuvenating experience with its dramatic coastal scenery and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this unique Cornish landscape – where you can also spot some cute seals!

THE LIZARD HIKING TRAIL – MAP

3- Scafell Pike, Lake District

Start: Wasdale Head
End: Same as starting point
Length: 8 miles (12.8 km)
Difficulty: challenging

Climbing Scafell Pike via the Corridor Route is a popular and challenging hiking experience in the Lake District, England. Starting from Wasdale Head, the trail traverses various terrain, including rocky paths, grassy slopes and a mountain corridor with impressive views.

You will navigate past Styhead Tarn and ascend through the corridor flanked by Great End and Lingmell, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding mountains.

This hiking route provides a less-travelled but rewarding approach to the summit of Scafell Pike, the highest peak in England, offering a mix of challenging terrain and breathtaking scenery for those seeking an adventure in the Lake District.

SCAFELL PIKE HIKING TRAIL – MAP

4- Mam Tor, Peak District

Start: Mam Nick car park
End: Same as starting point
Length: 3 miles (4.8 km)
Difficulty: moderate

The Mam Tor circular walk is a captivating hiking route in the Peak District National Park, England. Starting near Castleton, the trail takes you to the iconic Mam Tor, a hill known for its panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

The trail includes the Great Ridge, offering stunning vistas of the Hope Valley and the Edale Valley. And along the way, you will traverse a mixture of grassy paths and rocky terrain, passing ancient hill forts and the spectacular Winnats Pass.

This moderate hike completes a short loop, providing a rewarding journey through the distinctive and picturesque scenery of the Peak District for all, even beginner walkers.

MAM TOR HIKING TRAIL – MAP

5- South Downs Way, England

Start: Winchester
End: Eastbourne
Length: 100 miles (160 km)
Difficulty: moderate

The South Downs Way is a long-distance trail that stretches for around 100 miles along the chalk hills of the South Downs in southern England. It is the perfect way to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, either by walking or riding, as the path follows a bridleway route.

Starting from Winchester and ending in Eastbourne, the trail offers varied scenery, including sweeping hills, picturesque villages and stunning coastal views. You will also have the chance to explore historic sites like Old Winchester Hill and the Iron Age hillfort at Devil’s Dyke.

The South Downs Way provides a diverse and rewarding hiking experience, showcasing the natural beauty and cultural richness of the South Downs region whilst offering opportunities for both day hikes and long-distance walks.

SOUTH DOWNS HIKING TRAIL – MAP

6- Snowdon – Llanberis Path, Wales

Start: Victoria Terrace, Llanberis
End: Same as starting point
Length: 9 miles (14.5 km)
Difficulty: moderate

Climbing Snowdon via the Llanberis Path is a popular and the most accessible route to the summit of the highest peak in Wales. The route offers a rewarding and less strenuous option for those seeking to conquer the Mount whilst enjoying the scenic beauty of Snowdonia – perfect for beginners hiking it for the first time.

Starting from Llanberis, the path follows a well-maintained track that gradually ascends through the mountains. It also provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the picturesque Llyn Padarn and the Snowdonia National Park.

As you ascend, you will pass through a landscape of rocky outcrops and meandering paths (but not too challenging), eventually reaching the summit of Snowdon, where breathtaking vistas of the Welsh mountains unfold.

MOUNT SNOWDON HIKING TRAIL – MAP

7- Cheddar Gorge, Somerset

Start: Cheddar Visitor Information Centre
End: Same as starting point
Length: 4 miles (6.4 km)
Difficulty: moderate

The Cheddar Gorge trail is a captivating and moderately challenging walk that takes you through spectacular limestone gorges in Somerset, England. The route also passes by the largest gorge cave in Britain, Gough’s Cave, adding a historical and geological dimension to the journey.

Starting from the village of Cheddar, the trail winds through the gorge, with imposing limestone cliffs on either side. You can explore the rugged terrain, marvel at the stunning rock formations and enjoy panoramic views of the Mendip Hills.

The Cheddar Gorge trail offers a unique and picturesque hiking experience for outdoor enthusiasts, combining natural beauty, geological wonders and a touch of history in this iconic landscape.

CHEDDAR GORGE HIKING TRAIL – MAP

8- Coast to Coast, England

Start: St Bees
End: Robin Hood’s Bay
Length: 190 miles (305 km)
Difficulty: moderate

The Coast to Coast Path is an iconic long-distance trail in England that stretches approximately 190 miles from the Irish Sea in St Bees, Cumbria, to the North Sea in Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire.

Designed by Alfred Wainwright, the route traverses 3 national parks: the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. You will have the opportunity to experience diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, picturesque villages and rugged terrain.

The Coast to Coast path provides a challenging yet rewarding journey, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of northern England as you cross the country from west to east.

COAST TO COAST HIKING TRAIL – MAP

9- Malham Landscape Trail, Yorkshire Dales

Start: Malham National Park Centre
End: Same as starting point
Length: 4 miles (6.3 km)
Difficulty: easy

The Malham Landscape Trail is a captivating and easy walk that explores the stunning limestone scenery around Malham in the Yorkshire Dales National Park, England. It is the perfect way to stretch your legs without too much effort.

Starting from the picturesque village of Malham, the trail takes you to iconic natural sites such as Malham Cove, Gordale Scar and Janet’s Foss waterfall. You will follow well-marked paths through lush meadows, limestone pavements and alongside streams, offering a diversity of landscapes.

The route also provides breathtaking views of the dramatic geological formations and showcases the unique flora and fauna of the area, making it an ideal immersive hiking experience for all to appreciate the natural beauty and wonders of the enchanting Yorkshire Dales landscape.

A short detour can be made to include a visit to Gordale Scar.

MALHAM COVE HIKING TRAIL – MAP

10- Causeway Coast Way, Northern Ireland

Start: Portstewart
End: Ballycastle
Length: 33 miles (53 km)
Difficulty: moderate

The Causeway Coast Way is a stunning coastal trail that winds along the wild and picturesque coastline of Northern Ireland. Stretching approximately 33 miles, the route begins in Portstewart and meanders its way to the iconic Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Along the way, you will be treated to breathtaking views of cliffs, sandy beaches and the Atlantic Ocean, passing notable landmarks like Dunluce Castle and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.

This hiking trail provides a diverse and exhilarating easy-to-moderate walking experience, combining natural beauty, cultural heritage and the enchanting cultural wonders of the Causeway Coast.

CAUSEWAY COAST HIKING TRAIL – MAP

11- The Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye

Start: Storr car park
End: Same as starting point
Length: 3 miles (4.8 km)
Difficulty: moderate

The walk to the Old Man of Storr is a renowned hiking trail on the Isle of Skye in Scotland. Starting from the car park, the path ascends through a landscape of rocky terrain, heather-covered hills and unique rock formations.

The highlight of the hike is the iconic Old Man of Storr, an imposing rock peak that stands majestically against the backdrop of the Trotternish Ridge. You will also be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Sound of Raasay and the Isle of Rona.

The Old Man of Storr hike offers both a challenging climb and a chance to immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Scottish Highlands.

OLD MAN OF STORR HIKING TRAIL – MAP

12- Cotswold Way, Gloucestershire

Start: Chipping Campden
End: Bath
Length: 102 miles (164 km)
Difficulty: easy

The Cotswold Way is a picturesque long-distance hiking trail in England that spans about 102 miles from Chipping Campden to Bath. Crossing the scenic Cotswold Hills, the route offers a delightful blend of charming villages, rolling countryside and historic sites.

You will pass through meadows, woodlands and limestone escarpments, enjoying panoramic views of the Cotswold landscape along the way. Highlights also include Broadway Tower, the medieval town of Winchcombe and the Roman heritage in Bath.

The Cotswold Way provides a classic English trekking experience for all abilities, combining natural beauty, cultural heritage and peaceful countryside along this well-established and well-marked trail.

COTSWOLD WAY HIKING TRAIL – MAP

13- Pembrokeshire Coast Path, Wales

Start: St Dogmaels
End: Amroth
Length: 186 miles (299 km)
Difficulty: moderate

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a captivating long-distance trail that follows the rugged and stunning coastline of Pembrokeshire in southwest Wales. Stretching approximately 186 miles, the path offers breathtaking sea views, dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches and picturesque harbours.

The route encompasses the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and passes through charming coastal villages like Tenby and St Davids. You will also have the chance to explore diverse landscapes, including wildflower-covered headlands and secluded coves.

With its ever-changing scenery and abundant wildlife, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path provides a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this coastal wonderland.

PEMBROKESHIRE COAST HIKING TRAIL – MAP

14- West Highland Way, Scotland

Start: Milngavie
End: Fort William
Length: 96 miles (154 km)
Difficulty: moderate

The West Highland Way is a well-known long-distance hiking trail in Scotland, stretching approximately 96 miles from Milngavie, just outside Glasgow, to Fort William.

The route passed through diverse landscapes, including lush lowland moors, picturesque lochs and the spectacular mountain scenery of the Scottish Highlands.

You will also traverse charming villages, woodlands and open moorland, with highlights including the iconic Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moor and the challenging climb of Devil’s Staircase.

The West Highland Way offers a memorable trekking journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of Scotland, providing the perfect mix of cultural, historical and natural experiences along the way.

WEST HIGHLAND HIKING TRAIL – MAP

15- Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge

Start: Horton-in Ribblesdale
End: Same as starting point
Length: 24 miles (38.6 km)
Difficulty: challenging

The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is a demanding but popular hiking route in northern England, encompassing the summits of 3 prominent peaks: Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough.

The challenge typically covers a distance of around 24 miles and involves climbing each peak in 12 hours. The circular route starts and finishes in the village of Horton in Ribblesdale, taking you through moorland, limestone pavements and rocky paths whilst enjoying panoramic views of the Yorkshire Dales.

The Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is a rigorous and enriching trek that attracts outdoor enthusiasts looking for a mix of physical exertion and stunning landscapes.

YORKSHIRE TREE PEAKS HIKING TRAIL – MAP

16- Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland

Start: Donard car park
End: Same as starting point
Length: 3 miles (4.8 km)
Difficulty: moderate

The Slieve Donard hike takes you to the summit of Slieve Donard, the highest peak in the Mourne Mountains and Northern Ireland. Starting from the town of Newcastle, the trail climbs through forested areas, opens up to reveal panoramic views of the Irish Sea, and eventually leads to the granite slopes of Slieve Donard.

The path to the summit offers a challenging yet accessible hike, and reaching the top rewards you with breathtaking vistas of the Mourne Mountains, the Irish coastline and even as far as Scotland on a clear day.

Perfect for less experienced hikers looking for a short climb, the Slieve Donard trail provides a memorable and scenic trek in the heart of the Mourne Mountains.

SLIEVE DONARD HIKING TRAIL – MAP

What to pack for a hike in the UK

The best way to explore the UK responsibly in any season and enjoy the outdoors is to arrive prepared. Being mindful of what you bring with you on a hike is essential.

Here are some eco-friendly clothing and gear ideas for your next adventure:

Boots: it is essential to equip yourself with reliable hiking shoes that ensure both comfort and dryness. Consider exploring vegan options from reputable brands like Merrell and La Sportiva, as they offer a diverse range of eco-friendly hiking shoes.

Backpack: a sturdy backpack is indispensable for any hiking adventure, regardless of your skill level, and the right choice can last a lifetime. Explore durable options from reputable brands such as Osprey and Lowe Alpine.

Clothing: your clothing choices will depend on the season and weather conditions, but you should aim for sustainable and eco-friendly options that respect the environment. Consider exploring selections from brands like Rab and North Face.

Food containers: opting for reusable containers is crucial when packing meals or snacks to minimise waste. Invest in a reusable meal kit, collapsible containers and bamboo cutlery to eliminate unnecessary trash. Explore options from eco-friendly brands like Bambaw and Light My Fire.

Reusable water bottle: stay hydrated on the go with a water bottle featuring a built-in purifier filter. It ensures access to clean and healthy water wherever you hike, all whilst reducing waste and eliminating the need for single-use plastic. Explore options from reputable brands like Grayl and Epic Water Filters.

Other hiking essentials

Map or GPS device
Reef-safe sunscreen
Insect repellent
Power bank

Check out this page for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

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How to reduce your eco-impact on a hike

Reducing your eco-impact on a hike is essential for preserving the natural environment, particularly in fragile locations.

Here are a few tips to minimise your environmental footprint in the UK whilst enjoying the outdoors:

Stay on designated trails: stick to established and marked paths to avoid disturbing fragile ecosystems and minimise soil erosion. Please, do not take shortcuts!

Leave no trace: pack out all your waste, including food scraps and litter. Leave natural and cultural elements as you found them, so others can enjoy the same unspoiled setting. You can also pick up any trash you come across.

Use a reusable water bottle: carry a refillable water bottle to reduce single-use plastic waste. Refill it at designated water sources when available, such as streams and lakes. Perfect for staying hydrated on the go.

Dispose of waste properly: if there are no waste facilities, take away all waste, including biodegradable items like fruit peels. Follow the pack it in, pack it out principle. It is also a good idea to bring a biodegradable bin bag with you.

Choose eco-friendly gear: opt for outdoor gear made from sustainable materials and companies with environmentally responsible practices.

Minimise campfire impact: if fires are permitted and necessary, use established fire rings and keep the fire small. You can also use a camp stove for cooking to reduce the need for fires.

Respect wildlife: observe animals from a distance and avoid feeding or touching them. You can also keep noise to a minimum to avoid disturbing wildlife. In addition, pay attention to where you drive, park your car and walk.

Always respect the local heritage. Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainability is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful and smile!

WANT MORE INSPIRATION?

UK travel planning guide

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to the UK?
Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your hiking experience in the UK stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Nomad Insurance.

💧 Can you drink the water in the UK?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over the UK. However, I also recommend travelling with the UltraPress Purifier Bottle, a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

🚗 Is it easy to rent a car in the UK?
Yes, renting a car in the UK is easy and a great way to reach remote areas – if needed. I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

🏨 How to book accommodation in the UK?
The best way to book your accommodation in the UK is with Booking.com – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable hostels to luxury resorts.

✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to the UK?
I recommend booking your plane with Skyscanner. It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

Best hikes in the UK – FAQ

What is the most beautiful national trail in the UK?

There are many beautiful national trails in the UK, each with their own beauty, including the Pembrokeshire Coast Path in Wales, the West Highland Way in Scotland and the Cotswold Way in England. Ultimately, the most beautiful trail will depend on your preferences.

What is the hardest trail in the UK?

One of the most challenging long-distance trails in the UK is often considered to be the Cape Wrath Trail, an unofficial and unmarked route in Scotland, renowned for its difficult terrain, river crossings and unpredictable weather conditions.

What is the easiest mountain to climb in the UK?

One of the easier mountains to climb in the UK is Ben Nevis. Located near Fort William in Scotland, Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles. But whilst it is the highest, it is considered one of the more straightforward ascents among the major peaks in the UK.

What is the best season to hike in the UK?

Summer (June to September) is the best and most popular hiking season with warmer temperatures and longer days. The landscapes are lush and the weather is generally more predictable. However, some trails may be busier, especially in popular destinations.

And you, which is your favourite hike in the UK?
Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡
Lucie