The UK is a vast and beautiful place, and that means it’s also home to thousands of picturesque and impressive hikes. You’re positively spoilt for choice when it comes to picking a trail to walk, no matter where you are in the country.
Of course, some hikes are better suited to experienced walkers while others are a better starting point for those of us who haven’t yet broken in pairs of hiking boots. Either way, there’s the perfect hike out there for you if you know where to look.
But if what you’re looking for is a staycation destination that also features incredible hiking opportunities then you’re in the right place. We’ve picked out some of our favourite trails in the UK below.
One of the main benefits of a hot tub is its ability to soothe away any aches and pains, just like those you might come back from a long walk feeling. This makes it the perfect idea to combine any of these hikes with hot tub weekend breaks!
The South West Coast Path
This is one you’re certainly not going to finish in a single day, or even a whole week! The South West Coast Path runs for 630, stretching from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset, and takes in some of the most stunning coastline in the UK.
That said, rather than committing to the entire path, there are plenty of smaller sections along the way that each make for an excellent day’s hike. You can tackle a couple of segments over the course of your weekend break or simply try a different part each time you visit the area.
One of the most highly rated stretches of the path, though, is the segment that takes you around the Lizard Point. The most southerly point of the UK provides excellent views out over the Atlantic, where you might manage to spot dolphins, seals or even the occasional whale.
Snowdonia National Park
Rather than the longest path, how about one of the highest? Snowdonia National Park features the tallest mountain in England and Wales, which makes this an incredibly popular hiking spot.
You don’t have to go straight to tackling the peak of Snowdon (known as Yr Wyddfa in Welsh), however, as the park is teeming with gorgeous trails to explore and trek. If scaling the mountain is beyond you, choose from walks winding through ancient woodlands, trails that pass through pretty villages and lakeside ambles.
No matter which paths you end up tackling, the landscapes of northern Wales are bound to impress. High or low, this stunning countryside is the perfect setting for your weekend break.
Yorkshire Dales
While the Yorkshire Dales don’t boast peaks quite as high as those in Snowdonia, they still offer excellent hiking opportunities. In fact, if you’re feeling ambitious you can attempt the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, which tackles a trio of iconic Yorkshire mountains.
For those who’d prefer an alternative to the 12-hour round-trip, though, the Dales feature plenty of walking trails of all shapes and sizes. Amble across the rolling countryside of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, enjoying classic British landscapes and pastoral scenes that have escaped the passage of time.
Shaped by glaciers in ages past, the mix of gentle slopes, craggy hills and heather-covered moors make for an excellent holiday destination. Be prepared to lose yourself amidst the wide-open landscapes, just try to avoid getting lost in the literal sense while you’re enjoying the breathtaking views!
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Are your feet ready to go just from reading about these hikes? Rest assured that these walks are all worth the effort, even if your tired feet might disagree!
