Best Walking Holiday Locations in the UK

The UK is home to some of the most stunning walking holiday destinations, from dramatic coastal paths to rolling countryside and historic trails. Whether you’re after a gentle stroll or a challenging trek, here are the best walking holiday locations in the UK to explore.

Top Walking Holiday Locations in the UK

1. The Lake District – England’s Walking Paradise

Best for: Mountain lovers, scenic lakes, and classic British countryside.
Top Walks: Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, Catbells.

With its rugged peaks, stunning lakes, and charming villages, the Lake District offers both gentle and challenging walks, making it one of the UK’s best destinations for walkers.

2. The Cotswolds – Rolling Hills & Picture-Perfect Villages

Best for: Easy walks, charming villages, and scenic countryside.
Top Walks: The Cotswold Way, Bourton-on-the-Water circular walk.

The Cotswolds is ideal for those looking for gentle walking holidays, with rolling landscapes and quaint villages to explore.

3. The South West Coast Path – Breathtaking Coastal Scenery

Best for: Dramatic cliffs, stunning beaches, and sea views.
Top Walks: St Ives to Penzance, Exmoor coastline section.

The South West Coast Path offers some of the UK’s most breathtaking coastal walks, stretching through Devon, Cornwall, and Dorset.

4. Offa’s Dyke Path – Historic Border Walking

Best for: History lovers and peaceful countryside trails.
Top Walks: Knighton to Hay-on-Wye, Prestatyn to Chepstow.

Following the Welsh-English border, Offa’s Dyke Path combines fascinating history with beautiful landscapes.

5. The Yorkshire Dales – Dramatic Valleys & Rolling Hills

Best for: Rural beauty, limestone formations, and charming villages.
⛰ Top Walks: Malham Cove, Pen-y-Ghent, Aysgarth Falls.

For those looking for self-guided walking holidays in England, the Yorkshire Dales is a fantastic location with diverse terrain and scenic views.

Self-Guided Walking Holidays with Byways Stays

Looking for a stress-free walking adventure? Byways Stays offers carefully planned self-guided walking holidays in the UK, complete with route maps, accommodations, and luggage transfers.

Explore self-guided walking holidays in the UK

How to Choose the Best Walking Holiday Location

✔ Consider the terrain – Do you prefer coastal walks, rolling hills, or mountainous hikes?
✔ Think about duration – Short weekend walks or long-distance trails?
✔ Choose based on experience – Some locations are better for beginners, while others suit experienced hikers.
✔ Book accommodations in advance – Ensure a smooth and relaxing walking holiday.

No matter where you go, the UK offers spectacular walking holiday locations that cater to every type of walker.