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The Best Winter Walks

Dec 20, 2022
Winter Walks Across the UK
Don't let winter hold you back. It's never too cold or gloomy to go on a scenic walk through the spectacular UK countryside. From Scotland's highlands and the rugged coastline of Cornwall to the Lake District's hills and moors – you'll be spoilt for choice.

Read on as we've rounded up the best winter walks by area for you and your family to kickstart your new year in style.

Scotland


Loch Morlich, Highland

Distance: 3.1 miles/5.1 km
Time: 1.5h
Difficulty: Easy

Get ready to explore Scotland’s finest settings along this easy walking trail. Surrounded by pine forests and fringed by glorious beaches, the Loch Morlich walk starts and ends in the Highland town of Aviemore. The snow covers Cairngorms summits for more than 100 days a year, providing a picturesque backdrop for your stroll.

North West of England


Rydal Water, Lake District


Distance: 2.8 miles/4.5 km
Time: 1-2h
Difficulty: Easy

This family-friendly walk in the Lake District is a treat all year round, but even more so when temperatures hit minus figures. Twirling around the foot of Nab Scar before heading towards the lower part of Loughrigg Fell, it provides breathtaking views over the water.

West Yorkshire


The Twelve Apostles, Bingley


Distance: 4 miles/6.4 km
Time: 2h
Difficulty: Easy

This four mile-loop starts and finishes in Bingley, West Yorkshire, and makes a beautiful winter walk. Tranquil and picturesque, it provides a great opportunity to take in the stunning landscape. Climb to the top of Burley Moor, 400 metres above sea level, to admire the mysterious Bronze Age stones.

West Midlands


The Roaches, Staffordshire


Distance: 6.2 miles/10 km
Time: 4h
Difficulty: Moderate

This curling woodland trail in Staffordshire is home to unique flora and rare wildlife, from red grouse to buzzards and sparrowhawks. You’ll explore three Pick District Ethels before stumbling upon the spooky (but charming nonetheless) Lud’s Church – a deep, sandstone chasm and a West Midlands symbol.

East of England


Blakeney to Wells-next-to-the-Sea, Norfolk


Distance: 7.7 miles/12.4 km
Time: 4.5-5h
Difficulty: Easy

Looking for a relaxing coastal walk? Norfolk has just what you need. Follow the East of England coast’s blistering winds and explore the village of Blakeney before getting lost in the spectacular Blakeney Nature Reserve. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for seals and rare birds!

South West of England


St Ives to Zennor walk, Cornwall


Distance: 6.5 miles/10.4 km
Time: 4h
Difficulty: Moderate

Few places can rival Cornwall’s breathtaking beauty, and this walk makes the perfect starting point to explore it. As you go around Pen Enys, don't forget to look back at St Ives to take in the picture-perfect views. If you keep heading towards Zennor, the wild Atlantic coast will open before your eyes, making the challenging trail all the more worthwhile.

Wales


Elidir Trail


Distance: 2.4 miles/4.5 km
Time: 1.5h
Difficulty: Easy

Nothing short of spectacular, Elidir Trail represents Wales at its finest. Found within the so-called ‘Waterfall Valley’ in the Brecon Beacons National Park, this walk is perfect for families. Follow the River Pyrddin upstream towards Sgwd Gwladus, home of the Lady Falls. Magnificent all year round, wintertime adds some extra charm with its ice patterns.

Considering moving to the countryside? Read our guide on deciding where to live.