Top Ten Long Distance Walks In The UK

This July we’re on a mission to inspire you to #GetYourselfOutThere. With lockdown restrictions slowly lifting and, for many, a new-found appreciation of the beauty of the countryside right on our doorstep, 2020 is the perfect time to explore even more. Today we’re bringing you our favourite long distance walks in the UK. Many of you might have eschewed a foreign holiday for time at home, so why not take a couple of weeks to enjoy one of these hikes? By staying in B and Bs and independent hotels, as well as eating at countryside pubs, restaurants and cafes, you’ll also be supporting the local community and helping it to thrive and grow.

1. The Coast to Coast Walk

Where? From St Bees in Cumbria to Robin Hood’s Bay in North Yorkshire

How long? 190 miles

How many days do I need? 2-3 weeks

What do I need to know?
Perhaps one of the most famous walks in the UK, this beautiful walk crosses fells, moorland, fields and mining terrain. You’ll see sunset on the west coast and awake to sunrise in the east. Pre-planning is essential as this route can get busy and accommodation could be hard to find so prepare your route, book your beds in advance and look forward to day after day of changing landscapes, challenging terrain and unforgettable moments. See the full map and more details here on GPS Routes.

2. South Downs Way

Where? From Winchester to Beachy Head near Eastbourne, along the coastal area of the South Downs National Park.
How long? 100 miles
How many days do I need? 9 days
What do I need to know?
The South Downs Way is one of just 15 National Trails in England and Wales and was the first bridleway National Trail in England. Almost all of the route is off-road and its elevated position guarantees stunning views across to the English Channel and Isle of Wight. You can sip a refreshing drink and an overnight stay in one of the ancient villages dotted along the route and enjoy the wildlife as you pass through five National Nature Reserves. Plan your itinerary on the South Downs National Park website.

3. Hadrian’s Wall

Where? From Wallsend near Newcastle to Bowness-on-Solway, Northumberland
How long? 84 miles
How many days do I need? 4-6 days
What do I need to know?
Built by the order of Emperor Hadrian in AD122, the wall formed the northernmost frontier of the Roman Empire and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As well the Roman Wall, your route will pass by remains of milecastles and forts. There are plenty of B&Bs and guesthouses to book, or you can carry your kit and camp in the summer. More details on the Hadrian’s Wall Country website here.

4. Great Glen Way

Where? Scottish coast to coast from Fort William to Inverness.
How long? 74 miles
How many days do I need? 6-7 miles
What do I need to know?
This breath-taking, low level route follows the major natural faultline of the Great Glen which divides Scotland from coast to coast. The Way runs along the complete lengths of Loch Lochy, Loch Oich and the forests above Loch Ness, as well as along the towpath of the Caledonian Canal. Plan your journey and get more highlights here.

5. Channel Island Way

Where? The Channel Islands coastline
How Long? 115 miles
How many days do I need? 14 days
What do I need to know?
This is the ultimate way to get to know and appreciate the diversity of the Channel Islands – Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm. Yes, you will need to use a boat or plane to traverse between the five, but it’s worth it to walk the circumference of the five islands, as close as you can get to the coastline of each. Break up your your journey with forays into the island’s countryside to explore the charming villages and incredible views, as well as enjoy some of the delicious local produce. Plan your journey here.

6. South West Coastal Path

Where? From Minehead, Exmoor to Poole Harbour, Dorset
How long? 630 miles
How many days do I need? 30 days
What do I need to know?
The South West Coast Path is England’s longest way-marked footpath and has its historic roots in the 19th century when it was established as a coastguard patrol route to monitor and curb smuggling. You’ll enjoy some of the finest coastal landscapes, spot seals, peregrine falcons and cirl buntings if you’re lucky, and delve in to the fascinating history of the South coast as you pass by Bronze or Iron Age burial sites, forts and castles. Get all the information you need, including details for accommodation and food, here.
https://www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/

7. The Pennine Way

Where? From Edale, northern Derbyshire Peak District Kirk Yetholm, Scotland
How Long? 268 miles
How many days do I need? 18-20 days
What do I need to know?
This glorious route starts in picturesque Edale, in the northern Derbyshire Peak District passes through the rolling Yorkshire Dales and the majesty of the Northumberland National Park before passing into Scotland and finishing at Kirk Yetholm. This route is a challenging route which will test your legs and endurance but the views and satisfaction you’ll feel as you traverse the ‘backbone of England’ make it very well worth while. Another lure is that the route celebrates its 55th anniversary this year. Plan your expedition here.

8. The Thames Path

Where? Kemble, Gloucestershire to the Thames Barrier, London
How long? 184 miles
How many days do I need? 14 days
What do I need to know?
Did you know that the famous Thames starts as a tiny stream in the Cotswolds? You’ll learn much more about this as you walk the Thames, passing through the beautiful countryside of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, explore the historic towns of Reading, Henley-on-Thames, Windsor, Hampton Court, Richmond and Chelsea then delve into London. You’ll end up by walking from Westminster to Tower Bridge then pass through the the historic and new Docklands of Canary Wharf to Greenwich and finally, the Thames Barrier. WOW. Get the info here.

9. Offa’s Dyke Path

Where? From Sedbury Cliffs near Chepstow, Monmouthshire to Prestatyn, Denbighshire, Wales
How long? 177 miles
How many days do I need? 12 days
What do I need to know?
This long-distance path follows the Wales–England border and was officially opened as a National Trail in 1971. Following the dyke which King Offa ordered to be constructed in the 8th century, you’ll pass through eight counties and cross the England/Wales border over 20 times! Starting at the Severn Estuary you’ll end up at the Irish sea. As well as following lower-level, flatter areas as you follow the River Severn and the Montgomeryshire Canal, you’ll find plenty of challenge as you upland through the Brecon Beacons and Clwydian Range. All you need to know is here.

10. Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Where? From St Dogmaels to Amroth, Wales
How long? 186 miles
how many days do I need? 14-18 days
What do I need to know?
This coastal path is almost entirely within the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and you’ll make an ascent of 35,000 feet if you complete the way! Expect cliff-top walks and long, sandy stretches of beach as you make your way around Pembrokeshire, passing 58 beaches and 14 harbours. You’ll be well-serviced as the Pembrokeshire bus service also runs along the route, meaning that it will be easy to find accommodation and supplies. Find out more here.