There’s no better way to experience the UK’s stunning and diverse landscapes than a brisk spring hike.
This spring, many Brits are gearing up to explore the best hiking routes, with searches for ‘best hikes in the UK’ soaring by +5000% over the past month.
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If you’re looking for the perfect hiking destination, the staycation experts at Sally’s Cottages have compiled a list of five fantastic hikes to try this spring, catering to all experience levels and interests.
- Scafell Pike via The Corridor Route, Lake District
- Length: 12.1km
- Time: 6.5-7 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging
For those looking to conquer England’s highest peak, the Corridor Route offers a challenging yet rewarding path to the top of Scafell Pike.
This scenic route provides breathtaking views of the Lake District, with soaring valleys, deep ravines, and remote tarns.
Along the way, you’ll pass over Piers Gill’s dramatic ravine and continue to Lingmell Col before making the final climb to the summit.
If you’re up for it, you might try wild swimming at Ruddy Gill, so bring a change of clothes if you do.
- Lizard Coastal Walk, Cornwall
- Length: 13.4km
- Time: 3-4 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
At the southern tip of the UK mainland, the Lizard Coastal Walk follows high cliffs and offers stunning views of Cornwall’s coastline.
This route takes you past notable landmarks, including the Lizard Lighthouse, Lion’s Den, and the Victorian lifeboat station at Polpeor Cove.
Spring is a vibrant time for nature enthusiasts, with rare flora and fauna along the way. Keep an eye out for unique wildflowers like milkwort and bloody crane’s-bill.
- West Highland Way, Scotland
- Length: 153.5km
- Time: 4-8 days
- Difficulty: Challenging
Scotland’s first and best long-distance trail, the West Highland Way, is an epic journey through the Scottish countryside, mountains, and glens.
This trail takes you past iconic landmarks like Ben Nevis and Loch Lomond, offering ample opportunities to spot wildlife, including eagles and red deer.
The hike concludes in Fort William, where you can unwind with a celebratory pint at the Black Isle Bar, boasting 27 taps to choose from.
- Roseberry Topping Walk, North Yorkshire
- Length: 4.5km
- Time: 1-2 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
For those seeking a shorter hike with stunning views, the Roseberry Topping Walk in North Yorkshire is an excellent choice.
The steep climb to the peak provides breathtaking vistas of the North Yorkshire and Cleveland landscapes.
This family-friendly hike is a popular spot for locals, offering a shorter route to the top. Once you’ve reached the peak, take in the scenery and snap some memorable photos.
After descending, enjoy a parmo at the King’s Head Inn.
- Storey Arms Pen y Fan to Pont ar Daf, Wales
- Length: 7.1km
- Time: Around 3-4 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
This accessible hike in Wales provides spectacular views of the Brecon Beacons National Park, making it ideal for families with kids and pets.
Starting at the Storey Arms Outdoor Centre, this route leads you to the summit of Pen y Fan via Corn Du.
On a clear day, you can see the Bristol Channel, Carmarthen Bay, and Swansea Bay. It’s a great spot for a family day out, just remember to keep your dog on a leash.
Commenting on the UK’s hiking spots, Sarah Pring, PR Manager at Sally’s Cottages, says: “Britain has so many beautiful hikes to choose from, that suit a range of needs and abilities.
We wanted to select our favourite for the spring season, for staycation goers looking to work hiking into their holiday itinerary.
From short to long distance, dog-friendly to difficult, we hope this has inspired people ahead of their next staycation.”
Discover the five best hikes to head on this spring in the UK. From challenging long-distance routes to family-friendly trails, find the perfect hike for your staycation.
- Google search data correct as of 17.04.24
- Data taken from: https://www.sallyscottages.co.uk/guides/outdoor-trend-report