13 Best Hiking Trails In The UK (2025): Routes, Maps & Tips

Planning a hike in the UK can feel overwhelming when you're faced with hundreds of trails, each promising stunning views and memorable experiences. You need clear information about difficulty levels, route details, and what gear to bring. But most guides either dump generic lists on you or assume you already know which trails match your fitness level and interests.

This guide cuts through the noise. You'll find 13 of the UK's best hiking trails, from gentle coastal walks to challenging mountain ascents. Each entry includes detailed route maps, distances, estimated times, terrain breakdowns, and seasonal tips. Whether you're after a long distance adventure like the West Highland Way or a day hike up Snowdon, you'll know exactly what to expect before you set off. Plus, you'll get practical gear recommendations and safety advice tailored to UK conditions.

1. Take a Hike UK (gear essentials)

Before you tackle any of the best hiking trails UK has to offer, you need reliable gear that won't let you down when weather turns or trails get rough. Take a Hike UK stocks everything from emergency sleeping bags to portable water solutions, giving you a one-stop shop for trail essentials that match the UK's unpredictable conditions.

Overview and why Take a Hike UK made the list

Take a Hike UK earns its spot here because proper gear preparation often makes the difference between a memorable hike and a miserable one. The site focuses on practical outdoor equipment rather than fashion items, with products tested for UK weather patterns and terrain challenges. You'll find gear that addresses real problems UK hikers face, like sudden rain, boggy paths, and temperature drops.

Who should use Take a Hike UK before hiking

You should browse Take a Hike UK if you're planning multi-day treks or heading into remote areas where equipment failure could turn serious. First-time hikers benefit from the curated selections that remove guesswork, while experienced trekkers appreciate the specialist items like emergency gear and tech accessories. Anyone tackling exposed routes or winter conditions needs backup equipment, and this platform consolidates those essentials.

Having the right gear isn't about luxury; it's about staying safe when conditions change faster than you can descend.

Top Take a Hike UK gear picks for UK trails

Stock up on a quality waterproof jacket with proper breathability, since UK trails combine exertion with rain. Add a portable water purification bottle for routes with limited facilities, and pack an emergency sleeping bag for safety on longer or more isolated hikes.

2. West Highland Way

Scotland's West Highland Way stretches 96 miles from Milngavie (near Glasgow) to Fort William, taking you through some of the UK's most dramatic landscapes. This trail ranks among the best hiking trails UK offers for multi-day adventures, combining accessible terrain with genuine Highland wilderness.

West Highland Way overview and why it made the list

The West Highland Way made this list because it delivers exceptional variety without requiring advanced mountaineering skills. You'll traverse lowland meadows, skirt Loch Lomond's eastern shore, cross Rannoch Moor's vast expanse, and finish beneath Ben Nevis. The trail follows old drovers' roads and military paths, giving you both historical context and well-maintained routes. Unlike more technical Scottish hikes, this path suits confident walkers rather than just experienced mountaineers.

Route map, distance and time for West Highland Way

You'll cover 96 miles (154 km) over typically 6 to 8 days, though strong hikers sometimes compress this to 5 days. The route runs north from Milngavie through Drymen, Rowardennan, Inverarnan, Bridge of Orchy, Kinlochleven, and finishes in Fort William. Daily stages range from 9 to 20 miles depending on your chosen accommodation stops. Most hikers average 12 to 14 miles per day to balance progress with scenery appreciation.

Highlights, terrain and difficulty on West Highland Way

Your route showcases Loch Lomond's wooded shores, the wild expanse of Rannoch Moor, and the dramatic descent into Glencoe. Terrain varies from forest paths and lochside tracks to exposed moorland and mountain passes. The Devil's Staircase section between Kinlochleven and Fort William tests your stamina with steep ascents. You'll face moderate difficulty overall, with the main challenges being distance rather than technical skill.

The West Highland Way teaches you that Scotland's beauty lies not just in peaks but in the journey between them.

Best season and access for West Highland Way

Plan your hike between May and September for the most reliable weather and longest daylight hours. Spring brings vibrant greenery, while autumn offers fewer midges. You'll find regular transport links at Milngavie (train from Glasgow) and Fort William (train and bus connections). Accommodation along the route ranges from campsites to hotels.

Gear and safety tips for West Highland Way

Pack waterproof gear for Scotland's unpredictable rain and layers for temperature changes, especially on exposed moorland sections. Bring a reliable map and compass despite clear waymarking, as mist can reduce visibility dramatically. Book accommodation in advance during peak season, and carry midges repellent for summer hiking.

3. Pennine Way

England's Pennine Way claims the title of Britain's first National Trail, running 268 miles along the spine of northern England from Edale in Derbyshire to Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders. This epic route challenges you with raw, uncompromising terrain that tests both physical endurance and mental determination across some of England's wildest landscapes.

Pennine Way overview and why it made the list

The Pennine Way secured its place among the best hiking trails UK has to offer because it delivers authentic wilderness experience without requiring overseas travel. You'll traverse peat moorlands, limestone pavements, and windswept ridges that have humbled hikers since the trail opened in 1965. This path doesn't pander to casual walkers. Instead, it demands respect through bog-trotting sections, exposed plateaus, and relentless ascents that separate committed trekkers from daydreamers. The trail's reputation for tough conditions means you'll encounter fewer crowds than on gentler routes, giving you genuine solitude in Britain's uplands.

Route map, distance and time for Pennine Way

You'll cover 268 miles (431 km) over typically 16 to 19 days, though experienced hikers sometimes complete it in 14 days. The route pushes north from Edale through Kinder Scout, Malham, Tan Hill, High Cup Nick, Hadrian's Wall, the Cheviot Hills, and finishes at Kirk Yetholm. Daily stages average 14 to 16 miles, with longer sections requiring careful planning around limited accommodation. Factor in weather delays, as conditions can force rest days.

Highlights, terrain and difficulty on Pennine Way

Your journey showcases Kinder Scout's dark gritstone edges, Malham Cove's limestone amphitheatre, High Cup Nick's glacial valley, and Hadrian's Wall's Roman remains. Terrain combines everything challenging: deep peat bogs, slippery flagstone causeways, steep ascents, and exposed moorland. You'll face high difficulty due to sustained distance, navigation demands in poor visibility, and sections where wet conditions make progress exhausting. The northern sections through the Cheviots test your resolve with remote, featureless terrain.

The Pennine Way strips away hiking romanticism and shows you what your boots and willpower can actually handle.

Best season and access for Pennine Way

Tackle this trail between May and September when daylight extends and conditions improve slightly. Even summer brings rain and wind, so prepare for four-season weather. You'll reach Edale by train from Manchester, with decent connections. Kirk Yetholm offers limited public transport, so arrange return travel in advance. Accommodation varies from bothies to B&Bs, requiring advance booking.

Gear and safety tips for Pennine Way

Invest in waterproof boots with ankle support and gaiters for bog sections. Carry comprehensive wet weather gear and emergency shelter, as conditions deteriorate rapidly on exposed sections. Navigation skills prove essential when mist blankets the moorland, making even waymarked paths vanish.

4. Coast to Coast Path

Wainwright's Coast to Coast Path crosses England from the Irish Sea to the North Sea, covering 192 miles of stunning variety through three National Parks. This unofficial trail stands among the best hiking trails UK walkers can tackle, combining Lake District peaks, Yorkshire Dales valleys, and North York Moors heather with a genuine sense of achievement when you reach the eastern shore.

Coast to Coast Path overview and why it made the list

The Coast to Coast earned its place here because it offers unmatched diversity within a manageable timeframe. You'll experience dramatic landscape transitions that other UK trails can't match: from Lakeland fells to limestone country, then across moorland to coastal cliffs. Alfred Wainwright designed this route in 1973 to showcase England's finest scenery, and his vision created a trek that challenges without overwhelming. The path's popularity ensures good infrastructure while remaining less commercialised than some National Trails, striking an ideal balance for serious walkers.

Route map, distance and time for Coast to Coast Path

You'll walk 192 miles (309 km) over typically 12 to 14 days, starting from St Bees on the Cumbrian coast and finishing at Robin Hood's Bay in North Yorkshire. The route passes through Ennerdale, Grasmere, Shap, Kirkby Stephen, Reeth, Richmond, and Osmotherley before reaching the coast. Daily distances average 13 to 16 miles, with the Lake District sections demanding more time due to elevation gain. Strong hikers complete it in 10 days, though this pace leaves little time for enjoying villages and scenery.

Highlights, terrain and difficulty on Coast to Coast Path

Your journey showcases Helvellyn's ridges (if you take the high route), Nine Standards Rigg's stone cairns, Swaledale's stone barns, and dramatic views from the Cleveland Hills. Terrain varies wildly from rocky mountain paths and boggy moorland to gentle riverside tracks and field crossings. You'll face moderate to high difficulty depending on route choices, with the Lake District and North York Moors providing the toughest challenges through steep climbs and exposed sections.

This trail proves England's compact size works in your favour, packing extraordinary variety into under 200 miles.

Best season and access for Coast to Coast Path

Walk between May and September for optimal conditions and accommodation availability. Spring offers vibrant landscapes, while late summer brings purple heather across the moors. You'll reach St Bees by train from Carlisle or Barrow-in-Furness, with Robin Hood's Bay accessible via bus to Whitby. Book accommodation months ahead, as capacity along the route fills quickly during peak season.

Gear and safety tips for Coast to Coast Path

Pack broken-in boots suitable for varied terrain, from rocky scrambles to muddy field paths. Carry detailed maps for each section, as the route isn't officially waymarked throughout and navigation errors waste hours. Consider a baggage transfer service to lighten your load, letting you focus on hiking rather than hauling full packs over mountain passes.

5. South West Coast Path

England's South West Coast Path stretches an epic 630 miles along the Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, and Somerset coastline, making it Britain's longest National Trail. This spectacular route takes you past rugged cliffs, hidden coves, sandy beaches, and fishing villages while delivering relentless coastal scenery that ranks it among the best hiking trails UK adventurers can tackle.

South West Coast Path overview and why it made the list

The South West Coast Path secured its place because it offers unparalleled coastal drama over an extended distance that most hikers tackle in sections rather than through-hiking. You'll experience everything from gentle harbour walks to lung-busting cliff climbs, with the path originally created as a coastguard patrol route to spot smugglers. This heritage means the trail hugs the coast closely, often taking you up and down every headland rather than cutting inland, resulting in far more elevation gain than the distance suggests.

Route map, distance and time for South West Coast Path

You'll walk 630 miles (1,014 km) if you complete the entire path from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset. Full completion typically takes 7 to 8 weeks, though most people tackle shorter sections over multiple trips. Popular segments include Land's End to St Ives (26 miles), the Lizard Peninsula (various loops), and the Jurassic Coast section in Dorset. Daily distances vary wildly depending on terrain, with 10 to 15 miles representing a solid day when factoring in the constant ascents and descents.

Highlights, terrain and difficulty on South West Coast Path

Your journey showcases dramatic cliff scenery at Bedruthan Steps, St Michael's Mount's tidal causeway, Durdle Door's limestone arch, and countless secluded beaches accessible only on foot. Terrain combines steep coastal paths, sandy beach walks, stone steps, and occasional inland diversions around estuaries. You'll face moderate to high difficulty due to accumulated elevation gain, which totals around 115,000 feet across the full route (that's roughly four times the height of Everest). Cornwall's sections prove particularly challenging with constant ups and downs.

The South West Coast Path teaches you that coastal walking burns more calories than mountain hiking when you're climbing every headland.

Best season and access for South West Coast Path

Walk between April and October for the best weather and longer daylight hours. Spring brings wildflowers, while early autumn offers warm seas and fewer crowds. You'll find excellent public transport access along the entire route, with train stations at major towns and regular buses serving smaller villages. Accommodation ranges from campsites to luxury hotels.

Gear and safety tips for South West Coast Path

Invest in trail shoes or lightweight boots with good grip for varied surfaces from rock to sand. Carry sun protection alongside rain gear, as exposed coastal sections offer no shade. Check tide times for sections crossing beaches, and respect cliff edges, which can be unstable.

6. Snowdon summit routes

Wales's Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) rises 3,560 feet to become the highest peak in England and Wales, offering six distinct routes to its summit near Llanberis. This mountain earns its reputation as one of the best hiking trails UK visitors can climb through accessible paths that suit different fitness levels while delivering genuine mountain experience without requiring technical climbing skills.

Snowdon summit routes overview and why they made the list

Snowdon made this list because it provides multiple route options ranging from beginner-friendly paths to challenging scrambles, letting you choose your adventure level. The Llanberis Path offers the gentlest gradient, following the railway line for easy navigation. The Pyg Track and Miners' Track start from Pen-y-Pass, with the Watkin Path claiming the longest ascent from the lowest start point. Advanced scramblers tackle the Crib Goch route, which demands head-for-heights confidence across knife-edge ridges.

Route map, distance and time for the Snowdon summit routes

You'll walk between 7 to 10 miles round trip depending on your chosen route, taking 5 to 7 hours total. The Llanberis Path covers 9 miles with gradual ascent, while the Pyg Track offers a shorter 7-mile route with steeper sections. The Miners' Track starts gently before a tough final climb. Routes converge near the summit, where you'll find the visitor centre and café (seasonal opening). Most paths require good fitness rather than technical skills, except Crib Goch.

Highlights, terrain and difficulty on the Snowdon summit routes

Your ascent reveals Llyn Llydaw's glacial lake, the dramatic amphitheatre below the summit, and panoramic views across Snowdonia when visibility cooperates. Terrain varies from well-maintained paths to loose scree, rocky steps, and exposed ridges. You'll face moderate difficulty on standard routes, with the main challenges being sustained ascent and potential weather changes. The Crib Goch route jumps to high difficulty with exposed scrambling requiring confidence and dry conditions.

Snowdon proves mountains don't need extreme altitude to demand respect, especially when Welsh weather rolls in.

Best season and access for the Snowdon summit routes

Climb between May and September for the most stable weather and operational mountain railway. You'll reach trailheads via the Sherpa bus service from Llanberis, Pen-y-Pass, and Nant Peris, with parking extremely limited at popular starting points.

Gear and safety tips for the Snowdon summit routes

Pack warm layers as summit temperatures drop significantly below valley conditions, even in summer. Carry waterproofs and navigation tools, since cloud can descend rapidly and obscure paths.

7. Ben Nevis mountain track

Scotland's Ben Nevis stands as Britain's highest mountain at 4,413 feet, offering walkers the ultimate UK summit challenge near Fort William. This iconic peak ranks among the best hiking trails UK mountaineers can tackle, combining manageable access with genuine high-altitude conditions that demand proper preparation and respect.

Ben Nevis mountain track overview and why it made the list

Ben Nevis earned its place because it provides the highest summit experience in the British Isles through a well-established path that suits fit walkers rather than requiring technical climbing skills. The Mountain Track (formerly Pony Track) climbs relentlessly but safely, letting you stand on Britain's roof without ropes or scrambling. This accessibility means thousands attempt it yearly, though the statistics reveal that preparation matters, with mountain rescue teams frequently assisting underprepared hikers.

Route map, distance and time for the Ben Nevis mountain track

You'll walk approximately 10.5 miles round trip via the Mountain Track from the visitor centre car park, taking 7 to 9 hours total including summit time. The path gains 4,413 feet of elevation through continuous zigzags, initially through woodland before emerging onto open mountainside. Most hikers need breaks during the ascent, with the steepest sections in the upper half testing your stamina.

Highlights, terrain and difficulty on the Ben Nevis mountain track

Your climb reveals Lochan Meall an t-Suidhe's mountain tarn at halfway, increasingly dramatic views across the Highlands, and the summit plateau's cairn and ruined observatory. Terrain progresses from maintained path to boulder fields and loose scree near the top. You'll face high difficulty due to sustained elevation gain, weather exposure, and navigation challenges when cloud obscures the path.

Ben Nevis teaches you that Britain's highest peak can punish overconfidence faster than any Alpine giant.

Best season and access for the Ben Nevis mountain track

Climb between May and September for the safest conditions and longest daylight. You'll find the trailhead easily accessible from Fort William town centre with ample parking at the visitor centre (charge applies).

Gear and safety tips for the Ben Nevis mountain track

Pack full waterproof gear and warm layers, as summit conditions often match winter even in summer. Carry map, compass, and emergency supplies since the summit plateau disorients walkers in poor visibility.

8. Hadrian's Wall Path

Northumberland's Hadrian's Wall Path follows the route of Rome's ancient frontier across northern England for 84 miles, combining historical fascination with outstanding countryside. This National Trail delivers a unique blend of archaeology and landscape that ranks it among the best hiking trails UK history enthusiasts and walkers can experience, letting you trace the Roman Empire's northwestern boundary through wild and remote terrain.

Hadrian's Wall Path overview and why it made the list

Hadrian's Wall Path made this list because it offers historical depth that other UK trails can't match while maintaining manageable walking challenges. You'll follow the 2,000-year-old fortification that marked the edge of Roman civilization, passing through forts, milecastles, and turrets that bring ancient history to life. The trail combines accessible sections near villages with remote moorland stretches that test your stamina, creating variety that keeps each day interesting rather than repetitive.

Route map, distance and time for Hadrian's Wall Path

You'll walk 84 miles (135 km) from Wallsend near Newcastle to Bowness-on-Solway on the Cumbrian coast over typically 6 to 8 days. The route passes through Corbridge, Hexham, Once Brewed, and Carlisle, with daily stages averaging 10 to 14 miles. Most hikers take 7 days to balance walking with time exploring Roman sites. The central section between Chollerford and Birdoswald preserves the most impressive wall remains and delivers the toughest terrain.

Highlights, terrain and difficulty on Hadrian's Wall Path

Your journey showcases Housesteads Roman Fort, Sycamore Gap (though the famous tree was felled in 2023), Vindolanda's excavations, and sweeping views across Northumberland's undulating landscape. Terrain varies from riverside paths and field tracks to exposed moorland ridges following the wall's dramatic course along the Whin Sill escarpment. You'll face moderate difficulty overall, with the central sections providing steep climbs and descents that demand good fitness.

Walking Hadrian's Wall connects you to 2,000 years of history while your boots tread the same challenging terrain Roman soldiers patrolled daily.

Best season and access for Hadrian's Wall Path

Walk between April and October for optimal conditions and full access to Roman sites. You'll reach Wallsend easily via Newcastle's Metro system, with Bowness-on-Solway accessible by bus from Carlisle. The AD122 bus serves key points along the route during summer months, making section walks straightforward.

Gear and safety tips for Hadrian's Wall Path

Pack waterproof gear for exposed sections where weather changes rapidly across open moorland. Carry sufficient water, as the central sections pass through remote areas with limited facilities between villages.

9. South Downs Way

Southern England's South Downs Way runs 100 miles from Winchester to Eastbourne, tracing ancient chalk ridges across Hampshire and Sussex. This National Trail combines gentle rolling countryside with dramatic coastal cliffs, offering some of the best hiking trails UK walkers can access from London, with quieter terrain than the Lake District yet equally rewarding views.

South Downs Way overview and why it made the list

The South Downs Way earned its place because it delivers accessible countryside without requiring serious mountain fitness while maintaining genuine scenic quality. You'll follow chalk paths that prehistoric traders and medieval drovers used, passing through landscapes that inspired writers and artists for centuries. This trail suits hikers wanting manageable daily distances with excellent village facilities, making it ideal for those stepping up from day walks to multi-day treks.

Route map, distance and time for South Downs Way

You'll walk 100 miles (161 km) from Winchester Cathedral to Eastbourne's seafront over typically 6 to 8 days. The route passes through Exton, Amberley, Steyning, and Alfriston, with daily stages averaging 12 to 16 miles. Strong walkers complete it in 5 days, though taking 7 days lets you explore South Downs villages properly.

Highlights, terrain and difficulty on South Downs Way

Your journey showcases Devil's Dyke's panoramic views, the dramatic white cliffs of Beachy Head, and countless Iron Age hillforts. Terrain consists mainly of smooth chalk paths with some muddy woodland sections and steep valleys. You'll face low to moderate difficulty, making this trail perfect for building multi-day hiking confidence.

The South Downs Way proves that southern England's gentle hills can deliver satisfaction without requiring mountain legs.

Best season and access for South Downs Way

Walk between April and October for dry paths and blooming wildflowers. You'll reach Winchester by train from London Waterloo in one hour, with Eastbourne equally accessible via rail. Regular train stations dot the route, enabling flexible section walks.

Gear and safety tips for South Downs Way

Pack trail shoes rather than heavy boots, as the terrain rarely demands ankle support. Carry sun protection for exposed ridge sections, and book accommodation ahead during summer weekends when the route fills with London escapees.

10. Helvellyn in the Lake District

The Lake District's Helvellyn stands at 3,117 feet as England's third-highest peak, famous for its dramatic ridges and choice of routes that suit different abilities. This iconic mountain near Ullswater delivers some of the best hiking trails UK adventurers can tackle in the Lakes, combining accessible paths with the notorious Striding Edge scramble that tests your nerve on exposed rock.

Helvellyn in the Lake District overview and why it made the list

Helvellyn earned its place because it offers multiple route options from gentle ascents to heart-stopping ridge walks, letting you match the challenge to your confidence level. The Striding Edge approach from Glenridding provides arguably England's most famous scramble, with knife-edge exposure that demands steady nerves and dry conditions. Alternatively, you can take the straightforward path from Glenridding via Helvellyn Gill, or approach from Thirlmere for gentler gradients. This versatility makes Helvellyn accessible to confident walkers while offering genuine mountaineering thrills for those seeking them.

Route map, distance and time for Helvellyn in the Lake District

You'll walk between 9 to 11 miles round trip depending on your chosen route, taking 5 to 7 hours total. The Striding Edge route from Glenridding covers approximately 9 miles, ascending via the dramatic arete and often descending via Swirral Edge for a complete horseshoe. The Thirlmere route offers gentler gradients over similar distances. Most hikers allow extra time for the exposed sections and summit photography.

Highlights, terrain and difficulty on Helvellyn in the Lake District

Your ascent showcases Red Tarn's glacial corrie, Striding Edge's narrow ridge with sheer drops, and 360-degree summit views across the Lake District. Terrain varies from mountain paths to exposed scrambling on the ridges, with loose rock and steep drops requiring concentration. You'll face moderate to high difficulty depending on route choice, with Striding Edge demanding scrambling confidence and a head for heights.

Helvellyn's ridges prove that England can deliver genuine mountain thrills without needing Scottish altitude.

Best season and access for Helvellyn in the Lake District

Climb between May and September for safer conditions on exposed ridges. You'll reach Glenridding or Thirlmere easily by car or bus from Keswick and Penrith, with parking available at both trailheads (charges apply).

Gear and safety tips for Helvellyn in the Lake District

Pack sturdy boots with ankle support for scrambling sections and loose terrain. Carry full weather protection and avoid Striding Edge in high winds, ice, or when cloud obscures the path, as several fatalities occur here annually among unprepared hikers.

11. Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Wales's Pembrokeshire Coast Path traces 186 miles of stunning coastline from St Dogmaels in the north to Amroth in the south, showcasing dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and abundant wildlife. This National Trail winds through Britain's only coastal National Park, delivering consistent scenic quality that rivals any coastal path in Europe while remaining surprisingly quiet compared to southwest England's routes.

Pembrokeshire Coast Path overview and why it made the list

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path earned recognition among the best hiking trails UK walkers can tackle because it provides world-class coastal scenery without the crowds that plague more famous routes. You'll experience towering sea cliffs at St Govan's Head, remote beaches accessible only on foot, and frequent wildlife encounters including seals, dolphins, and puffins. The path follows ancient clifftop routes that predate modern tourism, maintaining an authentic character that commercial development hasn't diluted. Unlike many coastal paths that detour inland, this trail hugs the coastline obsessively, giving you constant ocean views and bracing sea air.

Route map, distance and time for Pembrokeshire Coast Path

You'll walk 186 miles (299 km) from St Dogmaels to Amroth over typically 12 to 14 days. The route passes through Fishguard, St Davids, Solva, Marloes, Dale, and Tenby, with daily stages averaging 13 to 15 miles. Popular shorter sections include St Davids to Solva (11 miles) and the Stackpole Estate loop near Pembroke. Accumulated elevation gain totals roughly 35,000 feet due to constant cliff ascents and descents.

Highlights, terrain and difficulty on Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Your journey showcases St Govan's Chapel wedged in cliff rocks, Skomer Island's puffin colonies (viewable from the mainland), and Barafundle Bay's pristine sands. Terrain combines clifftop grass paths, rocky scrambles, sandy beaches, and steep stone steps. You'll face moderate difficulty overall, with the main challenges being accumulated elevation and exposure to coastal weather.

The Pembrokeshire Coast Path delivers consistent drama that many supposedly famous trails struggle to match.

Best season and access for Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Walk between May and September for optimal wildlife viewing and stable weather. You'll reach St Dogmaels and Amroth by bus from Cardigan and Tenby respectively, with regular coastal bus services linking villages along the route.

Gear and safety tips for Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Pack waterproof gear for sudden coastal squalls and layers for wind exposure on cliff sections. Carry tide tables for beach crossings, and maintain distance from cliff edges, which erode constantly and collapse without warning.

12. Mourne Mountains

Northern Ireland's Mourne Mountains dominate County Down's landscape, rising dramatically from the Irish Sea to Slieve Donard's 2,789-foot summit. These granite peaks offer some of the best hiking trails UK enthusiasts can find outside mainland Britain, combining manageable accessibility with genuine mountain character that rewards your effort with views across Ireland and Scotland on clear days.

Mourne Mountains overview and why they made the list

The Mourne Mountains earned their place because they deliver concentrated mountain drama in a compact area where you can bag multiple peaks in a single day. You'll traverse the famous Mourne Wall, a 22-mile granite structure built in the early 1900s that crosses fifteen summits, providing natural navigation in poor visibility. These mountains offer quieter trails than Lake District equivalents while maintaining equally impressive scenery through heather moorland, rocky tors, and Alpine-style ridges.

Route map, distance and time for the Mourne Mountains circular routes

You'll walk between 8 to 12 miles on popular circular routes like the Slieve Donard climb from Newcastle or the Hare's Gap horseshoe. Most circuits take 5 to 7 hours depending on how many peaks you include. The classic Slieve Donard route covers 9 miles with 2,700 feet of ascent, while longer traverses crossing multiple summits extend to 12 miles.

Highlights, terrain and difficulty in the Mourne Mountains

Your hike showcases panoramic coastal views, the distinctive Mourne Wall snaking across summits, and granite tors that give these mountains their unique character. Terrain combines mountain paths, rocky scrambles, and exposed ridges. You'll face moderate to high difficulty due to steep ascents and navigation challenges when mist descends.

The Mourne Mountains prove Northern Ireland's landscapes rival anything mainland Britain offers.

Best season and access for the Mourne Mountains

Walk between May and September for stable conditions. You'll reach Newcastle by bus from Belfast in under two hours, with parking available at Donard Park.

Gear and safety tips for the Mourne Mountains

Pack waterproof gear for sudden weather changes and boots with good ankle support for rocky terrain. Carry navigation tools, as the Mourne Wall helps orientation but doesn't eliminate getting lost risks in poor visibility.

13. Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge

Yorkshire's Three Peaks Challenge tackles Pen-y-ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough in a single circular route covering 24 miles with 5,200 feet of ascent. This gruelling walk through the Yorkshire Dales tests your endurance more than any single summit, combining sustained distance with repeated climbs that separate casual hikers from those seeking genuine physical achievement in northern England's limestone country.

Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge overview and why it made the list

The Yorkshire Three Peaks earned recognition among the best hiking trails UK walkers attempt because it delivers legitimate challenge within a defined timeframe that creates tangible achievement. You'll complete a classic 12-hour challenge that charity fundraisers and hiking clubs use as a benchmark, though taking longer removes no satisfaction from finishing. The route links three distinct peaks through beautiful Dales valleys, creating varied scenery that prevents monotony despite the relentless mileage. Unlike random long walks, this challenge has defined checkpoints and timing targets that give structure to your effort.

Route map, distance and time for the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge

You'll walk 24 miles (38.6 km) in a clockwise loop starting from Horton-in-Ribblesdale, ascending Pen-y-ghent first, continuing to Whernside, finishing with Ingleborough, then returning to Horton. The challenge target sits at 12 hours, though most first-timers need 10 to 14 hours. Strong walkers complete it in under 10 hours, while taking 14 to 16 hours still represents solid achievement. Accumulated elevation totals 5,200 feet across the three summits.

Highlights, terrain and difficulty on the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge

Your route showcases Pen-y-ghent's limestone tiers, Whernside's long ridge as Yorkshire's highest point at 2,415 feet, and Ingleborough's flat summit plateau. Terrain combines steep rocky paths, boggy moorland crossings, and valley tracks linking the peaks. You'll face high difficulty due to sustained distance and accumulated elevation rather than technical sections.

The Yorkshire Three Peaks proves endurance matters more than altitude when you're climbing the equivalent height of Ben Nevis while walking a marathon.

Best season and access for the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge

Tackle this challenge between May and September for longest daylight and drier paths. You'll reach Horton-in-Ribblesdale by train on the Settle-Carlisle line from Leeds, with the station sitting conveniently at the route's start.

Gear and safety tips for the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge

Pack blister prevention supplies and spare socks, as the distance punishes your feet more than typical day hikes. Carry headtorch, food, and plenty of water, since finishing after dark becomes common for slower walkers.

Ready to plan your next hike

You've now got detailed information on 13 of the best hiking trails UK walkers can tackle, from gentle coastal paths to challenging mountain ascents. Each route delivers unique rewards whether you're chasing historical sites along Hadrian's Wall, dramatic coastal scenery on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, or summit views from Ben Nevis. The beauty of British hiking lies in this variety, letting you match trails to your fitness level, available time, and weather preferences without needing flights or complex international logistics.

Your next step involves gathering proper gear that won't fail when conditions deteriorate unexpectedly. UK weather changes rapidly across all these trails, making reliable equipment essential for both safety and comfort on the hills. Rain can arrive within minutes on exposed ridges, while temperature drops test inadequate layers quickly. Browse Take a Hike UK's outdoor gear collection to stock up on waterproof jackets, emergency supplies, and trail essentials that perform in Britain's unpredictable conditions.