The UK’s landscapes are hugely varied and impressive – from golden sands to wispy meadows and dense woodland. And, it’s never been easier to explore our beautiful country thanks to Walking Britain pulling together resources, maps and inspiration for on-foot adventures.
You see, whether you’re a seasoned pro when it comes to ambling and hiking or you fancy trying something new for this year’s staycation, there’s a walk out there for everyone – even the kids and pups.
In this blog, we’ve pulled together our favourite 10-milers but don’t worry about finishing the full trek. Break it up into 10-mile chunks, or feel free to carry on for a full day’s walk.
Hadrian’s Wall Path
Where? Northumberland and Cumbria
Length: 84 miles
The Hadrian’s Wall Path is so great because it can be easily broken down. As the name suggests, it centres around Hadrian’s Wall – which spans 73 miles across northern England. During this sign-posted walk, you’ll get to see the wall in all its glory as well as remnants of forts and ancient settlements that are dotted along the way. There’s also a museum which is the perfect pitstop for young and old adventurers.
South West Coast Path
Where? Cornwall
Length: 630 miles
If lazing around on a beach all day is your idea of hell, and you’re looking for another way to explore Cornwall’s coast, the South West Coast Path is for you. Again, it’s a very long route – 630 miles to be exact – but it’s ideal for both short and long walks. It stretches along Minehead to Poole Harbour and there’s lots of hidden coves along the way where you can stop to dip your toes in the water. It does get very busy during peak season but it’s a great path to enjoy with the kids too.
South Downs Way
Where? Hampshire
Length: 100 miles
Described as a quintessentially British walk, South Downs Way is a great route that the whole family can enjoy – even the four-legged members. It’s 100 miles of countryside, chalk cliffs and wildlife spotting opportunities – and there’s even a few pubs along the way. Some of the hotspots to look out for include Winchester; England’s first capital, Eastbourne, Devil’s Dyke and Seven Sisters Country Park.
Coast to Coast
Where? Cumbria and North Yorkshire
Length: 192 miles
It probably won’t surprise you, looking at the name of this route, that Coast to Coast stretches from one coast of England to the other. It was first created in 1973 by Alfred Wainwright – a British writer and fellwalker – and today visitors flock to the area to complete sections of the long distance 192-mile walking path. Along the way, you’ll pass St Bees Head and Robin Hood’s Bay as well as the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors (yep, three national parks). You’ll also pass beautiful villages like Grasmere, which is home to a few pubs.
Offa’s Dyke
Where? Wales
Length: 82 miles
Nestled on the England-Wales border, Offa’s Dyke travels from the Irish Sea to the Severn. Again, it can be split up into smaller routes – many of which travel through the Black Mountains, and offer views of the Brecon Beacons as well as Herefordshire. It mainly consists of gentle ups and downs and a flat stretch along the Montgomeryshire Canal can be enjoyed by all ages. If you want to see the best of Wales, in one walk, this is the route for you.
The Ridgeway
Where? South England
Length: 25 miles
The Ridgeway is known as the oldest path in England and story has it that soldiers, wayfarers, and mysterious masons trekked here hundreds of years ago. It’s another route that takes you through various landscapes including farmland, woods, and hills. Some of the highlights to keep your eyes peeled for include the standing stones at Avebury – which is close to where the path starts – Barbury Castle and Sparsholt Firs.
Cotswold Way
Where? The Cotswolds
Length: 102 miles
The full length of the Cotswold Way starts at Chipping Campden and goes all the way to the city of Bath – but there are plenty of shorter routes to enjoy. A perfect 10-miler version begins at Stroud, goes through Uley and ends in the market town of Dursley. You can then get a bus back to the start. Of course, any sections of this route are sure to impress and there are plenty of pubs and cafes along the way to keep you fueled up.
Pennine Way
Where? Peak District
Length: 268 miles
The Pennine Way in the Peak District is a must-do route for passionate hikers and walkers alike. But if you’re just starting out or you fancy something a bit shorter, the Kinder Scout Loop is a great launchpad. The 10 mile route starts in the village of Edale. Simply follow the Pennine Way west, going down Jacob’s Ladder until you reach Dark Peak. At the Kinder Downfall waterfall, head southeast across moorland and then you’ll find yourself back in Edale.
Three Peaks
Where? Yorkshire
Length: 24 miles
Known as some of the best walking routes in the UK, the Yorkshire Dales is ideal for walking holidays. Here, you’ll find a series of mountains which can be hiked in just one day – known as the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge. However, shorter explorations can also be enjoyed up and over Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-y-Ghent. It probably won’t surprise you that the views are incredible, whichever section you choose. And, once more, there are a few pubs dotted around which will be a welcome retreat to relax and enjoy after a day of hiking.
Causeway Coast Way
Where? County Antrim
Length: 33 miles
The Causeway Coast Way allows you to explore some of the finest cliffs in the UK. The main route runs from Portstewart to Ballycastle, but you can join and leave as you like. It runs through coastal towns like Portrush, Coleraine, and Portstewart, and it even passes the whiskey distillery at Bushmills. You are on holiday, after all. As well as incredible views, you’ll explore various landscapes, including grassy cliff edges, farmland, countryside and coastal paths.
Fancy one of the above beautiful walking experiences? A UK walking holiday can be anything you want it to be – whether you want to get your hearts racing or amble through a new area. Even better, we have accommodation throughout the whole of the UK, and you’ll certainly need somewhere comfy to rest your head after all that walking. Our properties even have a private hot tub – the perfect place to rest aching bodies. So, for a walking holiday in the UK, look no further.
The 20 best walks in the UK for beginners
- The White Cliffs of Dover: 3 miles of breathtaking views and historic landmarks.
- The Cotswold Way: 5 miles of rolling hills and charming villages.
- Hadrian’s Wall Path: 4 miles along the ancient Roman wall with stunning views.
- The West Highland Way: 6 miles through Scotland’s stunning highlands.
- The Jurassic Coast: 2 miles of stunning coastline and fossils to discover.
- The Lake District’s Catbells: 3 miles with stunning views over Derwentwater.
- The South Downs Way: 4 miles through England’s newest national park.
- The Norfolk Coast Path: 5 miles of sandy beaches and quaint coastal villages.
- The Yorkshire Dales’ Malham Cove: 2 miles to see a stunning limestone amphitheater.
- The Peak District’s Mam Tor: 3 miles of panoramic views over the National Park.
- The Isle of Skye’s Quiraing: 4 miles of dramatic landscapes and incredible views.
- The Cairngorms’ Loch an Eilein: 2 miles around a beautiful loch with a castle.
- The Brecon Beacons’ Pen y Fan: 4 miles to the highest peak in South Wales.
- The Cornwall Coast Path: 5 miles of rugged coastline and picturesque fishing villages.
- The West Highland Way’s Devil’s Staircase: 3 miles with a challenging ascent and stunning views.
- The Northumberland Coast Path: 6 miles of deserted beaches and ancient ruins.
- The Snowdonia National Park’s Y Garn: 5 miles with stunning mountain views.
- The New Forest’s Rhinefield Ornamental Drive: 2 miles through a beautiful forest.
- The Peak District’s Dovedale: 4 miles along a picturesque river and limestone valley.
- The Jurassic Coast’s Old Harry Rocks: 3 miles with stunning views of chalk cliffs and sea stacks.