We are so lucky in the UK to have some truly stunning landscapes right on our doorstep. Wherever you live, I guarantee there’ll be some amazingly scenic walks not too far from you. It’s one of the best things about walking, that not only do you get the physical and mental benefits from the fresh air and exercise, but you get to experience the beauty of nature. We’ve done a lot of walks over the last few years, so I’ve rounded up a few of our favourite scenic walks.
New to walking or have nobody to go with?
Me and Luke are lucky in that we have each other to go walking with, and we are getting our kids used to coming out with us as well. If you are keen to explore the best UK scenic walks, but are new to walking or have nobody to accompany you, it really isn’t a problem. There are lots of walking groups up and down the country, as well as some great singles walking holidays across the UK, so a lack of confidence or company is no barrier!
I have to start this round up with my favourite ever walk and quite frankly the best scenery we’ve ever encountered. We were lucky to do this walk on a sunny, clear day. When you consider that there are only around 14 clear days A YEAR at the summit, we really were incredibly fortunate. The walk up Ben Nevis is a long hard slog and took us about four hours, but the views were worth it.
The path up is well trodden and easy to navigate on a clear day
The views from the top of Ben Nevis were simply stunning
You’re going to have to take my word that this is a top UK scenic walk, as when me and Luke last did this route, we couldn’t see a thing! It started off so well, but the cloud quickly descended and visibility deteriorated rapidly.
We were blessed with blue skies and solitude at the start of our hike
From the summit of Helvellyn we should have been able to see one of the UK’s most iconic vistas across the mighty Striding Edge, but instead we could barely see our hands in front of our faces! Oh well, it just means we will have to make another trip north and tackle it on a better day.
One of the things I love about the Peak District is that there is a walk for everyone. There are some serious peaks to take on, such as the imperial Kinder Scout, or some more family friendly routes, such as Dovedale or the Tissington Trail. One of my favourite UK scenic walks is along the spine from Mam Tor to Lose Hill with great views over the Edale Valley.
Luke looking over the Edale Valley and towards Kinder Scout
Pen y Fan is a popular summit and it’s not surprising why. The Brecon Beacons are full of amazing scenic routes, but this accessible peak is a popular choice for experienced and beginner walkers. There’s no shame in following a well trodden path, especially when you’re not an expert hiker and when the landscape is as stunning as this.
Pen y Fan is very exposed so was a tad windy at the summit
Luke and Finn take a breather on the way up Pen y Fan
For our final favourite UK scenic walk, it’s time for a change of scenery. Walks don’t always have to feature big climbs to be scenic, some of the UK’s most beautiful landscapes can be found near the coast. We’ve enjoyed some great coastal walks in Norfolk and North Devon, but special mention has to go to the South West Coast Path. We have walked stretches of it from Lyme Regis to Portland and I thought it was especially beautiful. Along the way there are big open beaches, quaint villages and rugged coastline. I also really enjoyed exploring Portland and the famous lighthouse.
We walked part of the South West Coast path a couple of years ago
Hopefully by sharing some of our favourite UK scenic walks I’ve given you some inspiration. There is so much out there to explore, so why not start ticking off your wishlist right now!
What is your favourite scenic walk in the UK?
This post is written in collaboration with HF Holidays. All words and photos are my own.
