Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, the UK is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering some of the most breathtaking hikes in the world. From towering mountain peaks to rugged coastal cliffs, lush valleys to tranquil lakes, the UK’s hiking trails promise adventure, stunning landscapes, and a deeper connection with nature.
The best part? These hikes are as diverse as the country itself—perfect for every season, every level, and every kind of adventurer. Whether you're seeking a short, scenic walk or a challenging mountain ascent, there’s a trail for you. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the top 15 must-do hikes, showcasing the UK's most iconic and awe-inspiring routes. Lace up your boots and get ready to explore the wild beauty of the UK—one step at a time!
Location: Snowdonia National Park, North Wales
Why You’ll Love It: Snowdonia is home to some of the most dramatic and beautiful landscapes in the UK. The Snowdon Summit Walk via the Pyg Track is a must-do for seasoned hikers. The route offers a challenging yet rewarding ascent to Snowdon, the highest peak in Wales. Along the way, you'll pass through ancient woodlands, crystal-clear lakes, and rocky paths. The views from the summit are nothing short of spectacular, encompassing valleys, lakes, and the Irish Sea.
Best Time to Go: Winter months can offer a magical snowy landscape, but it's also perfect for hiking in the warmer summer months when the weather is more predictable.
Distance: 7.5 miles / 12 km
Entrance: Free, parking fees apply.
Location: Isle of Skye, Scotland
Why You’ll Love It: The Old Man of Storr is one of the most iconic hikes in Scotland. This dramatic rock formation rises high above the island’s rugged terrain. The hike takes you through mystical landscapes, with stunning views over the Trotternish Peninsula, rugged cliffs, and the sea. As you climb, you’ll be surrounded by jagged peaks and lush green valleys, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
Best Time to Go: Skye is a year-round destination. The summer months offer the warmest weather, though spring and autumn are great for avoiding the crowds while still enjoying spectacular views.
Distance: 3.8 miles / 6 km
Entrance: Free.
Location: Lake District National Park, Cumbria
Why You’ll Love It: The Helvellyn Ridge Walk is one of the most famous routes in the Lake District. It offers a challenging hike, especially during the final scramble, but rewards hikers with panoramic views of the surrounding lakes, valleys, and peaks. From the summit, you can see as far as Scotland on clear days. The route is perfect for those who want to challenge themselves while experiencing the best of the Lake District’s breathtaking scenery.
Best Time to Go: Spring and summer offer the best weather for hiking, but autumn brings incredible colours to the landscape, making it an equally stunning time to visit.
Distance: 8 miles / 13 km
Entrance: Free.
Location: Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Gloucestershire
Why You’ll Love It: The Cotswold Way is a 102-mile trail that takes you through charming villages, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys. The route is known for its gentle climbs and beautiful landscapes of golden stone cottages, lush meadows, and sweeping vistas. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a scenic walk with some history thrown in, as you'll pass through ancient villages and archaeological sites.
Best Time to Go: Spring is an ideal time to visit when the countryside comes alive with wildflowers, and the weather is perfect for a relaxed hike.
Distance: 102 miles / 164 km (can be done in sections)
Entrance: Free.
Location: Peak District National Park, Derbyshire
Why You’ll Love It: The Kinder Scout hike is the highlight of the Peak District and offers some of the best hiking views in England. The rugged moorland, striking rock formations, and flowing streams create a beautiful and wild environment. The route can be tricky, but it rewards hikers with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Derwent Valley and Manchester.
Best Time to Go: Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, offering mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is a popular time for this trail, but the spring and autumn months are quieter and just as stunning.
Distance: 9.5 miles / 15 km
Entrance: Free.
Location: South Downs National Park, Sussex
Why You’ll Love It: The Seven Sisters Cliffs is one of the most iconic coastal hikes in the UK. This circular walk takes you along the edge of the white chalk cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the English Channel. You’ll pass through unspoiled coastal farmland, enjoy the sight of wildflowers in bloom, and spot various bird species. It’s an exhilarating hike with rewarding views.
Best Time to Go: Spring and summer are ideal for coastal walks, offering warmer weather and the chance to enjoy a picnic overlooking the cliffs.
Distance: 7 miles / 11 km
Entrance: Free.
Location: Brecon Beacons National Park, South Wales
Why You’ll Love It: The Pen y Fan hike is the highest peak in southern Britain, offering awe-inspiring views over the Brecon Beacons. The hike takes you through valleys, past rivers, and along ridgelines, showcasing the region’s diverse landscapes. From the summit, you can see far-reaching views over the valleys, lakes, and mountains of South Wales.
Best Time to Go: Summer offers the best weather for hiking, though autumn can be a quieter and equally beautiful time with changing leaves.
Distance: 4.5 miles / 7 km
Entrance: Free.
Location: Snowdonia National Park, North Wales
Why You’ll Love It: The Miners' Track to Snowdon is one of the most popular ways to reach the summit of Snowdon. This scenic route provides great views of lakes, valleys, and rocky terrain. It’s slightly less challenging than the Pyg Track, making it a great option for less experienced hikers. The summit offers stunning 360-degree views of Snowdonia National Park.
Best Time to Go: Summer is the best time for clear skies and warmer temperatures, but winter hiking is also possible for those looking for a serene, snow-covered experience.
Distance: 5 miles / 8 km
Entrance: Free.
Location: Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
Why You’ll Love It: The Cairn Gorm Summit Walk offers views of Scotland’s most famous national park. The route takes you past pine forests, rivers, and stunning mountain views. You’ll have the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including red deer and golden eagles. This hike is a great way to experience the rugged, remote beauty of the Scottish Highlands.
Best Time to Go: September offers beautiful autumnal colours and cooler weather, perfect for hiking.
Distance: 4.5 miles / 7 km
Entrance: Free.
Location: Isle of Arran, Scotland
Why You’ll Love It: The Goat Fell hike takes you to the highest point on the Isle of Arran, offering sweeping views of the island and beyond. The hike is challenging but manageable for most, and the summit rewards you with incredible vistas over the coastline and mountains. The route takes you through heather-filled moorland and scenic woodlands.
Best Time to Go: Autumn offers cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage, but spring is also an ideal time for this hike.
Distance: 3.5 miles / 5.6 km
Entrance: Free.
Location: Lake District National Park, Cumbria
Why You’ll Love It: The Catbells walk is perfect for those looking for a short but rewarding hike. This relatively easy route offers panoramic views of Derwentwater and the surrounding fells. The walk is suitable for families and beginners, making it a great introduction to the Lake District.
Best Time to Go: Autumn brings vibrant colours to the area, but spring and summer provide ideal weather for this relatively short hike.
Distance: 4 miles / 6.5 km
Entrance: Free.
Location: Yorkshire Dales National Park, North Yorkshire
Why You’ll Love It: The Malham Cove and Gordale Scar hike takes you past dramatic limestone cliffs, gorges, and waterfalls. The hike is scenic and offers a chance to see some of the best geological formations in the UK. The route is family-friendly and takes you through idyllic countryside.
Best Time to Go: Winter provides a serene, quieter atmosphere, while autumn offers vibrant colours across the landscape.
Distance: 6 miles / 9.6 km
Entrance: Free.
Location: Exmoor National Park, Somerset
Why You’ll Love It: The Valley of Rocks hike is famous for its dramatic coastal scenery and rugged cliffs. The walk is relatively easy and can be done at a relaxed pace. Along the route, you’ll pass unique rock formations, wild ponies, and spectacular views of the Bristol Channel.
Best Time to Go: Autumn and spring offer milder weather, ideal for a hike through the valley.
Distance: 5 miles / 8 km
Entrance: Free.
Location: Hadrian’s Wall Path, Northumberland
Why You’ll Love It: Walking along Hadrian’s Wall is a fantastic way to combine hiking with history. The trail takes you through ancient Roman sites, forts, and spectacular landscapes. The path follows the remains of Hadrian’s Wall, offering views of rolling hills, valleys, and wild landscapes.
Best Time to Go: Spring and summer are the best times for this walk, when the weather is mild and the scenery is lush.
Distance: 84 miles / 135 km
Entrance: Free.
Location: Mourne Mountains, County Down
Why You’ll Love It: The Slieve Donard hike takes you to the highest peak in Northern Ireland, offering panoramic views over the Mourne Mountains and the Irish Sea. The hike is challenging but accessible for experienced hikers, and the summit offers breathtaking views of the rugged landscape.
Best Time to Go: Summer offers the best weather for hiking, though autumn is also ideal for witnessing the changing landscape.
Distance: 5.5 miles / 9 km
Entrance: Free.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, these 15 hikes offer stunning views, diverse landscapes, and unique experiences across the UK. With each season, the trails take on new characteristics, offering the perfect hike no matter the time of year. Make sure you’re prepared with the right gear and check weather conditions before heading out. And for a seamless travel experience, consider staying at Pass the Keys properties, ensuring comfort and convenience as you explore the great outdoors!