Britain is blessed with an extraordinary network of footpaths, bridleways and long-distance trails criss-crossing some of the most dramatically beautiful landscapes in Europe. The UK has legal rights of access to open land unmatched in most of Europe, and a culture of recreational walking that has produced trail infrastructure of remarkable quality — waymarked paths, detailed OS maps, well-positioned youth hostels and a tradition of pubs that welcome muddy walkers.
Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced hillwalker planning a multi-day route, the UK has something extraordinary to offer. Here is a guide to some of the finest options, organised by challenge level.
For Beginners: Accessible Trails With Big Rewards
The Cotswold Way National Trail runs 102 miles between Chipping Campden and Bath but can be walked in day sections, each manageable for reasonably fit beginners. The route traverses quintessential English countryside: limestone escarpments, ancient beech woodland, honey-stone villages and open panoramas. The section from Stanton to Winchcombe is one of the finest single days of walking in England.
The South Downs Way runs 100 miles along the chalk ridge of Sussex and Hampshire. The high, open downland is exposed and exhilarating, with broad views to the English Channel. Individual sections are accessible from numerous rail stations, making it one of the most practical long-distance trails for day walkers from London.
Intermediate: Beautiful Landscapes, Some Challenge
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path traces 186 miles of dramatic Atlantic coastline in West Wales, passing sea stacks, arches, blowholes and some of the finest coastal scenery in Europe. The walking is genuinely demanding as the path rises and falls repeatedly along the cliff line, but can be broken into sections of any length. The stretch around St Davids Head is among the finest coastal walking anywhere in Britain.
The West Highland Way in Scotland runs 96 miles from the outskirts of Glasgow to Fort William, and is consistently rated among the finest walking routes in Europe. The route transitions from lowland loch shores through the dramatic Highland landscapes of Rannoch Moor and Glen Coe to the foot of Ben Nevis. It is typically walked over six to eight days in well-equipped accommodation along the route.
Challenging: For Experienced Walkers
The Cairngorms National Park in Scotland contains the most extensive high plateau in Britain. The Lairig Ghru, a high mountain pass connecting Aviemore and Braemar, is approximately 26 miles and requires good navigation, proper mountain equipment and favourable weather. The four peaks above 1200 metres in the central Cairngorms offer exceptional high-level ridge walking of outstanding quality.
Snowdonia National Park contains the finest mountain terrain in Wales. Snowdon itself at 1085 metres is the highest peak in England and Wales. While the popular Pyg Track and Miner's Track routes are technically straightforward, the Crib Goch ridge provides a full mountaineering experience requiring a genuine head for heights and scrambling ability.
The Lake District: England's Mountain Heart
The Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contains England's highest peak (Scafell Pike at 978 metres) and its most celebrated mountain landscapes. The Langdale Pikes, the Helvellyn ridge via Striding Edge, and the Blencathra horseshoe are among the finest mountain days in England. The area has exceptional accommodation infrastructure including YHA hostels and independent guesthouses in every valley.
Essential Kit for UK Hiking
British mountain weather is notoriously changeable and should never be underestimated even in summer. Essential equipment includes waterproof jacket and trousers, warm layers, waterproof boots with ankle support, map and compass with the ability to use them independently of a phone, sufficient food and water, and a first aid kit. Always tell someone your planned route and expected return time before heading into the hills.
"Walking in the British countryside is one of the great, free pleasures of living in or visiting the UK. The landscapes are extraordinary, the path network is unparalleled, and the pub at the end of a long day is an institution that deserves its legendary status."
The UK walking trail network is a remarkable national resource that costs nothing beyond equipment and transport to access. Start wherever your current fitness allows and let your ambition grow from there; the landscapes will reward every level of effort you bring to them.