Discover the UK’s Hidden Walking Trails and Turn Your Adventure into a Staycation

by Gemma Delaney

An aerial view of rolling green hills and footpaths stretching out into the distance, dotted with picturesque villages, sparkling lakes, and coastal beaches.

Imagine walking across breathtaking landscapes, absorbing the awe-inspiring views, and soaking up the crisp, fresh air. Let’s expand your horizons with our curated list of the best walking trails in the UK – each holding a unique charm and rimmed with natural beauty.

The Enchanting Coastline of Swansea, Wales

Founded for the soulful wanderers, Ramblers Walking Holidays offers more than just a day’s walk. Visualize azure blue seas, expansive sandy beaches interjected with ancient ruins and burial sites – Swansea’s Gower coastline has it all. A special feature, they offer a four-night break at a beachside hotel, each day exploring a novel route amongst nature-loving hikers.

The Timeless Charm of The Cotswolds, UK

Cotswolds’ nearly 800 square miles of rolling hills, river valleys, majestic old mills, and quaint honey-tinted villages are worth more than a page in your adventure book. The company, Foot Trails, provides excursions on less-trodden paths offering tranquility and solitude. Opt for a three or four-night stay at a 17th Century country pub adding an authentic British touch.

The St. Patrick’s Way Adventure, Northern Ireland

If walking a pilgrimage trail sounds exciting, consider the moderate-grade Macs Adventure. Covering around 12 miles daily for a few days, the trail winds through rolling farmland, awe-inspiring Tollymore Forest, majestic Mourne Mountains, and offers panoramic views over Carlingford Lough.

The Walk Through Ireland’s Past, Wicklow Way

Immerse yourself in Ireland’s rich history with a trek that takes you through forests, heathery hills, ancient valleys, and mysterious ruins of the monastic city of Glendalough – offered by Wilderness Ireland. The journey also includes a stay at the coveted spa for some well-deserved relaxation and pampering.

Feel the Aura of Lindisfarne Castle, Northumberland Coast, England

Pilgrimage to Holy Island, once a center of Celtic Christianity, is infused with an ethereal charm. Set off on this journey with Inntravel, relishing solitude or inviting a companion. The easy-grade journey will take you through stunning ruins, castles, and sweeping coastal views.

…And many more delightful trails across Wrexham, Scotland, Peak District, Chelmsford, and Isle of Wight that showcase the natural beauty, rich history, and diverse terrain of the UK.

Our expedition doesn’t end here! Be it a short walk around a Scottish loch, exploring the history laden Literary Heroes Trail of the Isle of Wight, braving the West Highland Way in Scotland, or simply having a memorable walking holiday during Falmouth’s famous sea shanty festival – the UK promises a myriad of fantastic and enriching walking experiences!

So, why not hit these trails and turn your adventure into an unforgettable staycation?

walking trails, best walks UK, adventure UK, staycation, Swansea, Cotswolds, St. Patrick’s Way, Ireland, Wicklow Way, Lindisfarne Castle, Wrexham, Scotland, Peak District, Chelmsford, Isle of Wight, Falmouth, Northumberland, Macs Adventure, Foot Trails, Ramblers Walking Holidays, Wilderness Ireland, Inntravel, West Highland Way, monastic city of Glendalough, Awe-inspiring Tollymore Forest, Majestic Mourne Mountains