Best Hikes in the UK: 14 Most Incredible Trails

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When planning a trip to the UK, most minds will head straight to London, some will venture to the charming streets of Edinburgh, and many will even stray to Cornwall! The best hikes in the UK aren’t usually something people think about when planning a British getaway.

Nevertheless, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking in the UK and, many of these, are likely to leave you just as breathless as some of the more famous hikes around Europe and the rest of the world.

Many gorgeous British destinations can only be accessed on foot. And, I’m sure I’m not the only one who’s guilty of overlooking the beauty that’s right on their doorstep!

However, when circumstances (yes, I’m talking about COVID), force you to ditch the passport and stay local, the best hikes in the UK may be your best chance of seeing some breathtaking views and getting that feeling that only comes from exploring a new destination.

Admittedly, the weather may be a tad unpredictable though, so I do recommend bringing your brolly!

The Best UK Hiking Trails You Have to Try…

So, whether you’re looking for an excuse to escape the house at the weekend or have been meaning to cross a particular trek off your bucket list, these are the best hikes in the UK you have to try.

Top Tip: If you’re after less challenging local walking routes, check out these best walks in Cambridgeshire for a mid-week stroll or a weekend out with the family. 

The 7 best hikes in England

Forget the bustling English capital and escape to the countryside for some of the best hikes in England.

1. Seven Sisters

One of the best hikes in England is the Seven Sisters which are located on the southeast coast. The ‘Seven Sisters’ are a series of seven hills located within the South Down National Park. They overlook the English Channel and are mostly known for their beautiful long wavy cliff of white chalk.

These vertical cliffs are best viewed on foot and the landscape offers some wonderful natural scenery. The walk begins at the town of Seaford and ends at Eastbourne – the entire walk is a total of 13.6 miles.  

Throughout the route, you’ll have amazing views across the coast, rolling hills, lighthouses, beach towns and those dramatic chalk cliffs.

If you’re travelling from Brighton or London, the easiest way to get to Seaford is by train. Then, from the train station, you can walk to the eastern end of the beach and you should find the coastal path that enters Seaford Head National Park.

Continue to Cuckmere Haven – a point where the river meets the sea – go past the beach and the bridge continues on the South Down Way to the coast. From here you can walk over the seven hills of the Seven Sisters up to Eastbourne. 

Birling Gap offers a tourist centre, bar, beach access and toilet. The landscape around is nothing short of gorgeous and, whether or not you love hiking the views will leave you speechless.

2. Viking Coastal Trail

The Viking Coastal trail in England is one of the best UK hiking trails. It offers astonishing landscapes, is easily accessible and, bonus, not very touristic. 

After spending a few days in London, you can catch a train from Kings Cross St Pancras to one of the towns along the route. Ramsgate or Margate are great starting points. It is an excellent trail even for just a weekend away from the capital. 

You can decide to cover the trail on foot or by bicycle and the paths, although occasionally dirt roads, are in great condition. It’s one of the best hikes in the UK and is perfect for beginners and even families with children. 

At Margate, you’ll have the first glimpse of a typical British seaside resort, with the classic amusement parks that you can usually spot along the English coast. But look out for an unexpected gem of contemporary architecture, the Margate Turner Collection, a contemporary art museum on the southeast coast. 

On leaving Margate, the path rises up to become an elevated walk, almost all along the high cliffs. You pass the incredible Botany Bay, where you can refresh yourself at the hotel of the same name with spectacular views of the bay. 

Continuing, you can admire Joss Bay and, when you arrive in Broadstairs you can appreciate the pretty promenade. Just three-quarters of an hour from Broadstairs, you’ll reach Ramsgate with its Royal Harbour. Then, from Ramsgate, continue on the coast a little longer and then head inland, cross to the Northern coast, and return to the starting point satisfied with this enchanting trail.

3. Hadrian’s Wall

The Hadrian’s Wall hike goes between the east and west coasts of Northern England and runs for 135 kilometres (84 miles). 

On the east coast, it starts in Wallsend and mainly tracks the remains of Hadrian’s Wall to Bowness-on-Solway on the west coast.  Hadrian’s Wall is the defensive wall built by the Romans to defend the north of their empire from the Scots.  

While this is a long-distance path, it is relatively easy as there aren’t too many inclines. The highest point on the trail is just 345 meters. 

If it’s been raining (and let’s face it, in England, that’s likely!) expect plenty of mud and exposed moorlands. You’ll want to wear layers and take waterproofs. This hike will suit you if you like multi-day hikes and open moorland.

You’ll pass by – and should visit – the Roman forts of Birdoswald, Chesters, and Housesteads. The views after Chesters Fort as some of the best on the route.  

Visiting at least part of Hadrian’s Wall is one of the top things to do in Northumberland, England’s most northerly county.  Walking the entire wall is a bucket list item for many and one of the best hikes in the UK.

The route is best split into 11-16 mile days. This gives you time to appreciate the countryside, stay in some marvellous B&Bs, and dine in some delicious country pubs along the way.  

We also recommend taking a few slight detours to some spectacular Roman sites along the way – Vindolanda and the Roman Fort at Corbridge are not to be missed. It’s also recommended to hike this from East to West, which keeps the prevailing wind at your back.

4. South West Coast Path

The South West Coast path is 600 miles long and passes through 4 counties of England: Dorset, Devon, Cornwall and Somerset. It snakes along the beautiful English coastline for the entire route. 

The path’s constant ascents and descents mean that, over the entire route, you climb the equivalent of Mount Everest four times! 

The entire 600 miles usually takes over 52 days to complete. Although the South West Coast Path is a long trail, most people split it into shorter hikes from day-long to multi-day versions.

There are many splendid viewpoints along the way. Some more notable ones include; Land’s End, Durdle Door, Lizard Point and Clovelly a stunning village in Devon. 

Also on the route is the famous Tintagel of Arthurian Legend, a stunning but rugged place. On the way, you will pass pretty fishing villages, craggy coastline, expansive farmland and beautiful beaches.

The entire South West Coast Path is suitable for experienced long-distance hikers with plenty of stamina. However, many sections can be completed by inexperienced walkers, for example, the section from Looe to Talland Bay. 

The terrain depends on the weather as it follows beaches and cliff-top trails. Overall, this is a fantastic trail with some of the most beautiful scenery in England.

5. The Pennine Way

The Pennine Way is arguably one of the best-known UK hiking trails. It is a 268-mile (431 km) long route that takes in Northern England’s high country – from the Peak District to the Scottish Borders. 

This route encompasses Hadrian’s Wall, the Cheviots and the Yorkshire Dales. The landscape that you’ll hike is rugged and stunning. There are magnificent views, glorious fells and stunning waterfalls like England’s highest, High Force and the equally delightful Low Force.

This is England’s most challenging National Trail and it was also the first. If you complete the Pennine Way, you’ll have ascended a combined elevation higher than Mount Everest. 

Some parts of the trails are remote, the weather conditions can be treacherous, and this is recommended only for experienced walkers, or those hiking with a guide. You can walk this year-round if you have the right gear, but it’s best experienced from May to September. 

Most walkers allow between 16 and 19 days to hike the Pennine Way, but it’s recommended to build in additional stops en route. There are some charming English towns and villages along the way, some fab bed and breakfasts and glorious pubs to stay in.

6. Needles, Isle of Wight

If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful hikes in the UK without crazy steep inclines, but with breathtaking views, head to the Isle of Wight, just off the south coast of England.

The Isle of Wight is only 22.5 miles wide and 13 miles from North to South, yet there are some great hikes to enjoy. Some of the best are found to the west of the Island, around the Needles, Old Battery, Freshwater Bay and the multi-coloured sands of Alum Bay.

A decent 6-mile circuit starts at the Needles, with plenty of parking nearby (which you need to pay for in high season). Alternatively, stay at one of the great Isle of Wight campsites nearby so you don’t need to worry about parking. 

From the Needles, walk towards Alum Bay, marvelling at the different colours in the sands. This section of the walk is about a mile and is fairly flat as it’s along the cliffs on the coast path. You can get a bus from Alum Bay back to the Needles if that’s enough for you.

If you want to keep walking, head from Alum Bay out over the downs to Freshwater Bay. Here, you’ll find some changes in altitude – the Isle of Wight is hillier than you might think. But, the views across the downs and out to sea will keep you entertained. You’ll be stopping frequently to take photos – I guarantee!

Once you’re at Freshwater Bay, you can follow the path back along the coast to the Needles. The entire route is about 6 miles. 

Be warned – much of it is rural and sections cross farmland, so wear appropriate footwear. Also, there are very few shops or cafes along the route. So, be sure to pack water and snacks for your hike. It’s probably best suited to adults with decent fitness levels, as, once you set off, there aren’t many opportunities to change your mind! 

7. Cotswold Way

One of the best hikes in the UK, the Cotswold Way is a 102-mile (164 km) trail. It usually takes about a week, you need to be reasonably fit as there are several surprisingly steep sections. 

It goes from the market town of Chipping Camden in the north to the Roman town of Bath in the south finishing at Bath Abbey. 

To reach Chipping Camden catch a train to either Moreton in Marsh or Stratford on Avon station. Then, it’s just a short journey by local bus. 

Bath Abbey is close to both the rail and coach station. The trail, which is maintained by the National Trust, is well-waymarked and easy to follow with the help of a guidebook and map. It follows the Cotswold escarpment past neolithic burial mounds, stately homes and ruined castles. 

You go through rolling pastures, beech woods and honey-coloured villages built of Cotswold stone. One of the best viewpoints is at Haresfield Beacon, the halfway point. From there, you can look across the River Severn to Wales. 

The Cotswold scenery is the England of many people’s imagination and, at the end of the day, you can relax in one of the many cosy village pubs on route.

The 4 best hiking trails in Scotland

A country known for its breathtaking natural landscapes, some of the best hikes in Scotland are out of this world.

8. Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis is in Fort William in West Scotland and is 1345m tall and the highest mountain in the UK. To reach the trail, you should park in the car park by the Visitor Centre. Here, you can find information that will help you complete the hike, as well as amenities such as toilets, food and drinks. It is also your last chance to ask any questions and look at their helpful maps. 

Next to the visitor centre is the trail’s start. You cross a small bridge and then head up the track and follow the signs. This is a popular hike and understandably as it’s one of the top UK hiking trails. Furthermore,  you cannot really get lost – just follow the path leading to the stone steps. 

If you aren’t used to hiking, this route could be quite a challenge. It will take you roughly 7-9 hours to complete and the terrain is pretty challenging in places. Nonetheless, it’s a very popular hike in the UK, and there are different routes up to the top.

I recommend taking the Tourist Track (also known as the Pony Track) if this is your first time up Ben Nevis. This is the easiest way up the mountain.

Before you start the hikes, I also suggest checking whether the weather at the summit is clear. There’s nothing worse than hiking for hours to be treated with a view of clouds and nothing else! But even if the weather isn’t on your site, the scenery will still be spectacular and the feeling of accomplishment when you reach the top is incredible.

9. Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye

Located on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, the Old Man of Storr is a relatively short but incredibly rewarding hike. These famous rock pinnacles are perhaps the most iconic feature on the Isle of Skye and should be on everyone’s Scotland road trip itinerary.

The Storr trail is the most popular walk on the island and one of the best hikes in the UK. 

The 2.75-mile (4.5km) loop trail starts at the car park on the A855 road. It’s considered a moderate walk due to its steep incline and occasional rough terrain. The beginning of the walk is mostly a gravel path but it soon becomes muddy as you ascend. It will take approximately 45-60 minutes at a normal pace to reach the most popular viewing area.

For the most direct route to the best view of the Old Man of Storr, keep right at each fork that you reach. Once you’ve marvelled at the impressive feature, be sure to walk towards it and amongst the rocks. Strolling through these giant formations feels like being transported to another world!  From here you can loop back to the car park – the total hike time should be around 1.5-2 hours.

10. Ben Lomond

Ben Lomond is a popular hill walk in Scotland. It rewards thousands of visitors every year with spectacular views over Loch Lomond and the islands dotted across it.

You can plan a full-day excursion to the summit, making time to picnic while enjoying the tremendous scenery, or just stop and listen to the beautiful silence. Going up and down the trail takes about five to six hours.

Ben Lomond is considered an easy and accessible trail, suitable for beginners just getting to grips with hiking in the UK. However, from the starting point at Rowardennan car park to the top, there is an ascent of around 1,000 meters. 

Some parts of the terrain are rocky, steep and rather challenging. It is best to not underestimate the hike and make sure to wear proper shoes. 

Most visitors come between April and October. If you choose to hike during winter, wear proper winter travel gear. Also, expect snow as you get close to the summit.

Rowardennan car park can be reached in an hour’s drive from Glasgow or an hour and 50 minutes from Edinburgh. In summer, you can also get there on the ferry from Tarbert Pier, accessible via a regular bus service from Glasgow.

11. Beinn Dhubh, Outer Hebrides

A hike up Beinn Dhubh is perfect for anyone looking for panoramic views of the Outer Hebride’s best beaches. The hike is located on the Isle of Harris and Lewis, a group of islands north of mainland Scotland. 

One of the best UK hiking trails for going off the beaten track, but it takes time to get there. You can access it either by ferry or a short domestic flight from Glasgow or Inverness. Due to the extra effort, it takes to travel there, very few people make it to this group of islands.

A rental car is the best way to travel around the Hebrides. It’s also the best way to get to the start of the trail, which is located just after the turnoff from the main road in the direction of Luskentyre Beach.

The hike takes 4-6 hours and starts with a steep climb to the top of Beinn Dhubh at 506 metres. It might not be the highest mountain in the UK, but it has fantastic views in all directions. Especially the islands off the coast, the beautiful Luskentyre Beach and the Harris Hills. 

The hike is not that physically challenging at 11km long and only climbs 600 metres. However, there is no well-defined path so it should only be done in good weather and by hikers who are comfortable following the contours of the landscape.

The 3 best hiking trails in Wales

Home to Britain’s favourite mountain and miles of stunning scenery, these are some of the best hiking trails in Wales.

12. Wales Coastal Path

Wales is great for hiking in the UK as it’s the only country in the world with a continuous marked path along its entire coastline. If you were to walk the whole thing, you’d walk over 870 miles of stunning scenery, beautiful beaches and great wildlife.

It’s important to understand that the Wales Coastal Path walk is actually made up of several different hikes (despite the fact that they’re all on a continuous route). There are six main sections (seven if you count Anglesey). This includes the North Wales Coast, Llyn Peninsula, Snowdonia coastline, Pembrokeshire, Carmarthen Bay and the South Wales coast. 

Each section will take several days and is well-signed, so you can start and stop your hikes whenever you like. There are cafes along much of the route for you to stop at if you wish. But some areas are wild, remote and perfect for a picnic. There are also plenty of car parks at all stages, even for larger vehicles if you’re touring Wales in a motorhome or campervan.

The northern sections are more mountainous than the south. But, as it’s the coastal path, there’s nothing too steep or difficult. So, hikers of most ages and abilities will be able to do at least a small section. 

13. Snowdon

For a quintessential British hiking experience, Snowdon has to be high up on your bucket list. This is the tallest peak in Wales, set right in the heart of Snowdonia National Park and is one epic day out. 

Getting here is fairly easy. You can head travel to Betws-y-Coed, which has a train station and lots of amenities. Then, there are shuttle buses which can take you right into the heart of the park. 

Snowdon itself has many different routes to reach the summit, so you can pick one depending on your skill level and desire for the day. For beginners, hiking the Pyg Track is probably your best option. The 7-mile round trip will take your average hiker 5-7 hours and climbs up to 1,085 metres. 

You start by the Pen-y-Pass car park, and the easy-to-follow trail gradually meanders around the base of the mountain. You’ll pass some stunning lakes and then begin your climb up towards the summit. It’s all relatively straightforward to follow so it’s a good one for newer hikers or families. 

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, Crib Goch is the answer. The ridge walk sweeps you around on the spine of a fairly hair-raising ridge. It’s an awesome experience but should definitely be left for the more experienced hikers. 

Oh, and this is North Wales, one of the rainiest parts of the UK. Make sure to bring some warm layers and waterproofs!

14. Tryfan, Snowdonia National Park

Tryfan, located within Snowdonia National Park in North Wales, is considered one of Britain’s favourite mountains and best hikes in the UK. The 917m high Welsh peak is also the 15th highest mountain in the UK.

The most popular way up to the top is along the North Ridge. You can park along the A5 road opposite Llyn Ogwen where the trailhead is marked with a National Trust sign.

The 4-5km circular route can take between 3 to 4 hours to complete. The hike itself borders on hiking and mountaineering as it’s classed as a Grade 1 scramble. There’s no designated way up to the summit. You’ll need to find your own way which is the reason why Tryfan is favoured by many.

Since you cannot climb Tryfan without using your hands, you’ll need a basic level of fitness and some previous hiking experience to reach the summit. The views along the trail are magnificent and from the top, you can see for miles on a clear day.

You should pick a dry day to attempt the hike as the weather conditions could make this mountain much more dangerous.

This is one of the best hikes in the UK and is perfect for a large variety of people. You can hike it solo but Tryfan is also great for outdoor-loving couples, friends or even experienced families.

Final Thoughts On The Best Hikes in The UK

Overall, the UK is a fantastic destination for hiking. There are lots of wonderful trails and such a huge variety too. You can explore beautiful mountaintops, wander around gorgeous lakes, and search for waterfalls amongst shaded woodland valleys.

I absolutely love hiking in the UK. It’s one of my favourite things to do when I’m exploring my home country. No matter your fitness levels, or preference when it comes to exploring the outdoors, getting back to nature is one of the best things to do in the UK.

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