The Most Picturesque Walking Routes in the UK

The United Kingdom is home to some of the most breathtaking walking routes in the world. It offers diverse landscapes that range from golden coastlines to mountainous countryside. If you are looking to go on a long hike or a walking holiday, here are some of the most picturesque routes in the country.  

The West Highland Way

The West Highland Way is a celebrated long-distance trail in Scotland, stretching 94 miles from Milngavie, just outside Glasgow, to Fort William in the Scottish Highlands. This route has a variety of landscapes, including lochs, woodlands, and rolling hills.

One of the highlights of the West Highland Way is Loch Lomond - the largest lake in Britain. Walking along its shores provides a unique sense of peace and connection to nature. As the trail progresses, hikers also get to explore the beautiful Rannoch Moor, which is both challenging and awe-inspiring. The path also takes you through the Devil's Staircase, with panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. You will conclude your walk in Fort William, enjoying the views of Ben Nevis, the UK's highest mountain.

The Coast to Coast path

The Coast to Coast Walk is an iconic route across Northern England, designed by Alfred Wainwright in 1973. This trail from St. Bees to Robin Hood’s Bay is 184 miles long, and it takes you through three national parks: the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the North York Moors.

Starting at St Bees, walkers are greeted with dramatic sea cliffs, as they slowly enter the Lake District, with its stunning lakes and charming villages. The highlights here include the idyllic Grasmere and the Helvellyn mountain. As the path continues into the Yorkshire Dales, the landscape shifts to rolling hills, dotted with unique stone walls and quiet farmhouses. The final stretch through the North York Moors presents expansive moorlands, ending with an arrival at the picturesque fishing village of Robin Hood's Bay.

The South West Coast route

Stretching 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset, the South West Coast path is the longest national trail in the UK. This path offers stunning coastal scenery, with dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming seaside towns. The highlights of this trail include the infamous rock formations at Durdle Door and the historic Tintagel Castle, known for its Arthurian legends. The South West Coast path is often named the UK’s ultimate challenge for hiking enthusiasts. 

The Pembrokeshire Coast trail

Located in Wales, the Pembrokeshire Coast trail was established in 1970 and covers 186 miles of breathtaking coastal scenery. This route offers a diverse range of landscapes, from exotic cliffs and coves to wide sandy beaches and rolling green fields. Wildlife enthusiasts will also appreciate the chance to spot seals, dolphins, and a variety of seabirds. The route also takes you through the dramatic cliffs at St. Davids Head and the charming holiday town of Tenby, where you can enjoy its many vibrant cafés and bars.

The UK has no shortage of amazing hiking trails and walking routes, each presenting unique landscapes and various difficulty levels. As you step through, enjoy the opportunity to learn more about the diverse nature and historical heritage of our beautiful country.