There are great walking holidays to be had across Britain, whether you’re just after pleasant day walks or epic adventures. With National Parks, mountains, seaside scenery and urban jaunts to choose from, there’s something to suit every walker’s taste.
Coastal Walks
Option One: The Seven Sisters Country Park
Where: East Sussex
The marked Habitat Trail offers good contrasts as it skirts the perimeter of the park. Over the course of five miles, it has wildlife – particularly birds and butterflies – as well as spectacular sea views from the top of the white cliffs.
Option Two: Pembrokeshire Coast National Trail
Where: Pembrokeshire, Wales
For something a little more challenging, try a multi-day trek through Britain’s only coastal National Park. Going from St Dogmael’s to Amroth, the trail stretches for 186 miles, taking in a range of top scenery from cliffs to pristine beaches.
Urban walks
Option One: Kew to Richmond
Where: London
A perfect way of escaping from the big smoke and rat race, this path starts at the famous Botanic Gardens and finishes amongst the deer in Richmond Park. There also fabulous views of the city during this 12 mile stroll.
Option Two: York Walking Tour
Another alternative is to go on an organised walking tour packed with stories and history. York’s one of the best places to do this, with its 2000 years of heritage, great buildings and city walls. The World Tour of York leaves from St Helen’s Square at 11am and 2pm every Friday and Saturday.
Cross-country walks
Option One: Lands End to John O Groats
The ultimate British walking challenge, it’s roughly 874 miles from the tip of Cornwall to the far north of Scotland. Obviously, a fair bit of time off work is required to complete it, but it’s in the trip of a lifetime category.
Option Two: The Coast to Coast
Where: St Bees, Cumbria to Robin Hood’s Bay, Yorkshire.
It’s slightly easier to cross the country in the other direction, but it still takes eleven to fifteen days depending on preference. The route crosses three National Parks – the Lake District, North York Moors and Yorkshire Dales.
Mountain walks
Option One: Climb Snowdon
Where: Snowdonia, North Wales
Snowdonia is one of the most visually stunning parts of Britain, and Wales’ highest mountain is arguably the most satisfying in the country to climb. There are plenty of trails around the mountain, and a few options for getting up to the summit.
Option Two: The Three Peaks Challenge
Where: Snowdon, Wales, Scafell Pike, Cumbria and Ben Nevis, Scotland.
For the truly brave/ insane walker, there is the option of trying to climb the highest mountains in Wales, England and Scotland. This is enough of a task over a life time, but those who take on the Three Peaks Challenge attempt to walk up all three within 24 hours.
Organised Walking Holidays
Option One: Glen Coe
Where: Scottish Highlands.
Glen Coe is one of Britain’s classic walking destinations and has more Highland majesty than you can shake a stick at. HF Holidays organises eight day walking breaks through the glens and ridges, staying at a fine old country house.
Option Two: The Lake District
Where: Cumbria
Option Two: Mickledore Travel specialises in walking breaks throughout the Lake District, ranging from short three day adventures to week-long trail walks with accommodation sorted along the way.
This article was originally written for AOL UK.
Copyright David Whitley
