Popular Walking Routes to try in the UK

The UK is not just about urban cities with dizzying nightlife and modern lifestyle. It is also about beautiful landscapes and breathtaking scenery, just waiting to be explored.

Many writers have been inspired by the natural side of UK and penned their experience in poems and texts. Whether it is the magnificent backdrop of Scotland’s West Highland or the stunning coastline of Cornwall, there is a lot more to discover about the UK, and one of the best ways to do so is by walking its length and breadth.

There are many popular routes to try and explore while in the UK. However, there are some that are known for their British terrain charm and dramatic hill country. These trails not only offer one a great hiking experience but introduce one to the breathtakingly beautiful countrysides and coastlines in the UK. On the way, you come across scenic towns and dramatic landscapes made of steep hills and sandy beaches.

Here are some top picks for those who want to explore the story-rich woodland of UK.

Welsh Borders on Kerry Ridgeway – 15 miles

If you want to experience the authentic British countryside, well then do include the delightful ridgeline walk among your UK walking holidays. Ever since centuries, most of the farmers and their flocks and herds have passed this way. The walk begins from the Cider House Farm and ends in Bishop’s Castle and will take you across the hill country and woodland.

Trails to Strangford Lough – 7 miles

Most walkers prefer to go on these routes in Northern Ireland along the southern shore of Strangford. You pass through rolling hills and green pastures as well as historic ruins across this landscape. The remaining snow is the Mourne mountains, which are visible from a distance, and the farmers clip their hedgerows in a somewhat sculptural manner. The first signs of spring are already there with the gorse hedgerows that would soon to burst in yellow flowers.

Along the Lizard Peninsula Coast – 14 miles

The Lizard Peninsula is located on the most southerly point in Britain and is made of a scenic stretch of land. The Lizard coastline is connected by the South West Coast Path and is home to picturesque coves, fishing villages, and rare flora and fauna. The trail is indeed a haven for nature lovers and takes one through the charming village of Helford and the cute town of Porthleven.

The Tramway Trail- 11 miles

When you walk the 11-mile Tramway Trail, you start from Portreath and finish at Devoran. The route goes across the west country peninsula and peaceful coastal villages as well as busy industrial ports. It follows the early horse-drawn tramways that were a major network of supply routes in the early days. Get an insight into Cornwall’s mining past as you take the coast-to-coast hike.

Dart Valley trail – 6 miles

The dramatic Dart Valley trail is judged as a moderate one as it takes you upward along the steep-sided valley of the river. It starts from the outskirts of Totnes and moves in the into open pasture along the Devon banks. The green hills and mudflats attract abundant birdlife like migrant geese, black-backed gulls, water rail, and little grebes. You might even come across the Sharpham Jersey cows that are well famous across the world for their rich milk and cream.

West Highland Way – 96 miles

The West Highland Way was officially opened in 1980 and ever since has remained popular. It was the first long-distance trail in Scotland and begins at just outside Glasgow at Milngavie. The walk takes you through an awe-inspiring landscape, the tranquil Loch Lomond and the remote wilderness of Rannoch Moor. It ends at the base of Ben Nevis, which is the biggest mountain of UK. The long trail might take about a week to cover and offers one some spectacular scenery of the Highland.

Burns Trail - 12½ miles

The Burns Trail starts and ends at Ayrshire, which is the birthplace of Robert Burns, Alloway, the most significant literary figure of the country. The walk from the historic country town will take you to the country roads and hills as well as the grounds of Newark Castle. Climb up into the Carrick hills and return along the coast. It is indeed a fantastic trail to be on, and you must visit the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum.

Priddy, Three Droves, Somerset - 4½ miles

This is an easy walk that begins from the village of Priddy and the Droves. The landscape is steeped in rich history and carries the traces of Roman lead mining. It is as if you are treading in ancient footsteps created centuries ago as you walk the Drove. The route takes you to the Monarch’s Way and as far as the Wells Road. You can enjoy plenty of birdwatching on the way and can spot species like great tits, fieldfares, goldfinches, wrens, skylarks, and buzzards. The lichens, mosses, and ferns are home to wildflowers and reptiles.

Causeway Coast Way -33-mile

The two-day route passing through an area of outstanding natural beauty and it is the best way to experience the dramatic, rugged north coast. The two-day route leaves from the seaside resort of Portstewart and goes past the ruins of the Dunluce Castle along the Causeway Coast. Enjoy the sight of the breathtaking Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and the Dunluce Castle perched on the crumbling rocky outcrop. Finally, the route ends in a beautiful Ballycastle.

St Cuthbert’s Way - 18 miles

The long and leisurely walk starts from Wooler and ends in Holy Island and offer you some great views and picturesque scenery on the way. You go through the rolling arable fields and reach the natural sandstone feature of St Cuthbert’s Cave. Later you reach Greensheen hill, from where you can enjoy mesmerizing views of the North Sea coast. However, one should be wary of the tides as the causeway leading to the Farne Islands disappear during high tide.

Coniston Round -11 miles

Lake District National Park is undoubtedly one of the most beloved destinations in the UK and Coniston Round within the park is indeed one of the stunning routes to take. The park is known for its glacial lakes and rugged mountains, and when on the route, you come across several market towns. The circular route begins at the lakeside village of Coniston and leads to the Old Man of Coniston and goes through the most remote peak in the Coniston Fells, the Grey Friar. Finally, you ascend the rocky summit of Dow Crag that offers beautiful views of nature around.

This is a contribution from one of our contributing writers.