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Escape the buzzing cities and discover the big skies of Britain’s dramatic countryside. Explore one of a huge number of hiking trails, covering hills, dales and snaking rivers. Amble along its breathtaking coastline, and soak up scenic towns and historic villages.

Whether you take on a stretch of England’s striking south coast or head up to Scotland’s West Highland Way, you’ll find a countryside steeped in history, beauty and with a story to be told. 

The hottest hiking trails in Britain

See Britain best on foot

For an intimate look at Britain and get exploring by foot. Set your own pace and discover rich landscapes of rivers, trails, hills and villages. Take in verdant vistas of no fewer than 15 National Parks, collectively forming more than a third of Britain.

Discover its 46 stunning Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, threaded with an extensive network of footpaths to kick you off your adventure. And with 16 National Trails including Wales Coast Path and the world’s longest - England Coast Path at 2,800 miles - there’s a lot to discover.

Whether you head for historic Hadrian’s Wall to the honey-hued Cotswolds, refuel at a riverside pub in the Norfolk Broads or head to the majesty of the Scottish Highlands, make sure you don’t miss out.

Britain's spectacular short walks

They might be short, but these walks are big on memories. Wherever you are based, Britain is bursting with ways to explore the great outdoors, from its National Parks to city rambles. Take the time to explore Britain on foot no matter how tight your schedule and let your imagination run wild in the nation’s stunning scenery. To get you inspired, here is a selection of the nation’s most interesting, historic and breathtaking hikes and why you’ll love them.

Soak up Scottish heritage on the Burns Trail

Follow in the footsteps of Robert Burns, Scotland’s beloved poet, on the 3.8 mile (6.1 km) Burns Trail in Alloway. The poet was born in the South Ayrshire village in 1759 in the thatched Burns Cottage.

Follow the trail to the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum and Burns Monument Gardens, Alloway Parish Church and Alloway Auld Kirk, the spot said to be the scene of the witches’ dance in his poem Tam o’ Shanter.

You will also pass over Brig o’ Doon, a 15th-century cobblestone bridge, also celebrated by Burns famous lines, so iconic a location, it appears on the Scottish £5 note.

VisitBritain/Chris Ceasar

View from a distance of a castle on hill near a beach

Be blown away by Bamburgh Castle

Discover the beauty of the Northumberland coast on the three mile (4.8 km) stroll along the beach from Seahouses to Bamburgh Castle, a truly beautiful stretch of coastline. Breathe in the bracing sea air whilst passing sandy dunes, azure coasts and rugged rock formations, before the imposing Bamburgh Castle fortress on the cliffs comes into view. Spy the impressive Farne Islands from the coast, home to grey seals and their pups in the autumn, or take a ‘sail around’ trip for a closer look at the region’s wildlife.

Climb to the top of Old Man of Coniston

The Old Man of Coniston is a classic Lake District challenge, full of rugged scenery and rewarding vistas. Hikers on this circular route will pass glorious summits, abandoned mine workings and even a secluded mountain pool, perfect for a spot of wild swimming. This 7.8 mile (12.5 km) walk gives you breathtaking views over Coniston Water, one of the National Park’s largest lakes.

VisitBritain/Kris Williams

Two tents with lights inside. Snow on the ground

Scale Mount Snowdon at your own pace

The largest mountain in Wales is one of the most popular walks in Britain. You can enjoy the trails in the Snowdonia National Park, then tackle the mountain itself. There are six trails to the top, all taking around six to eight hours to complete and around seven to nine miles (11-14 km) long. But the good news is, there’s a café on the summit.

If you’re feeling a bit tired, there’s also a railway that will take you to the top. We won’t tell any one, if you don’t…

VisitBritain

Broadway Tower, Worcestershire

Man walking towards Broadway Tower, Broadway, Cotswolds, Worcestershire, England, UK.

Stroll through the Cotswolds from Chipping Campden to Broadway

The Cotswolds is one of the most picturesque parts of the country and what could be better than a stroll between two of its best locations. The walk from Chipping Campden to Broadway is part of the Cotswold Way National Trail and is a feast for the senses, not least because it takes you past multiple tea shops.

Starting in the historic market town of Chipping Campden, you pass the natural amphitheatre, Dover’s Hill and eccentric landmark Broadway Tower, the highest structure in the Cotswolds, which overlooks the hike’s final destination, the chocolate-box village of Broadway. 

Walk your way round Britain

London

Discover the parts of the city you never knew about through this London walking tour.

VisitBritain/Getty Images/AzmanJaka

Smiling black woman walking around the colourful streets in central London in the summer

A masterpiece in the making, filled with beaches, clifftops, cities and nature.

South West Coast Path/Roy Curtis

A person on a footpath on the coastal path near sea

A route to adventure, culture and wildlife hugging the shorelines of Wales.

VisitBritain/Royce Mackin

Lighthouse on a prominent rocky outcrop