Are you a seasoned hiker who loves to explore all the diverse landscapes of the UK on foot? Or, as a novice, just starting on your journey to hiker’s paradise all alone?
Then, you must be excited to know about all the best hiking trails in this country! They range from the rugged mountains and difficult coastal pathways to the amazing rolling hills.
The UK has a variety of breathtaking hiking trails. These trails are enough to satisfy the desires of both normal walkers and risky mountain climbers.
The fascinating history of these mountains along with the adrenaline rushing experiences will keep you craving for them more and more.
Wanna jump into the world of virtual hiking and extract all the ecstasies at one go? No problem!
Whether you want to know about the Wales hiking trails or Madeira and Lake District hiking trails, this write-up will keep you covered.
Just keep reading.
Contents
- 1 Best Hiking Trails in the UK – Our 10 Picks
- 1.1 1. Snowdon Summit Trail
- 1.2 2. Scafell Pike Summit Trail
- 1.3 3. West Highland Way
- 1.4 4. Pembrokeshire Coast Path
- 1.5 5. Pennine Way
- 1.6 6. Ullswater Way
- 1.7 7. South West Coast Path
- 1.8 8. PR9 Vereda do Areeiro
- 1.9 9. Cairngorms National Park Trails (including the Trail from Aberdeen to Glasgow)
- 1.10 10. PR10 Vereda da Ponta de Sao Lourenco
- 2 Conclusion
Best Hiking Trails in the UK – Our 10 Picks
1. Snowdon Summit Trail
Heard about the ecstatic experience of different Wales hiking trails from your near ones? Want to test your physical fitness and relish the breathtaking views that come along the pathways of these types of trails?
Then, Snowdon Summit Trail must be your first go-to attempt. With this trail, you will be able to reach the topmost mountain peak in Wales.
Once you climb this peak, don’t miss the divine view of the stretched sea touching the horizon.
Climbing this peak in Wales is quite challenging. On the way, you will find many steep and rocky spots. But once you master this climbing art and reach your destination, you will feel that your hard work paid off.
The starting point of this trail is Llanberis, and it leads you to the Snowdon Summit. The mountains, along with valleys, their rich history, the on-site archaeological sites, etc, will leave you dumbstruck.
You can also try the old Snowdon Mountain Railway to reach the summit in less time.
Distance/Time Taken for Round Trip: 7 Kms -14 Kms (approx)/5 – 8 hours.
Safety Tips:
- Check the weather forecast before making the plan.
- Remain careful from slipping during your hike in wet weather.
- Carry necessary items with you like food, water, a map, a compass, gps device, etc.
Amenities Available:
- Toilets and showers.
- Campsite taps for drinking water.
- Sitting areas.
Nearest Campsite: Snowdon Base Camp.
2. Scafell Pike Summit Trail
One of the lucrative Lake District hiking trails, this trail has roads that are steep and rocky, like those of the Snowdon one. Climbing it is equally challenging as the previous one.
However, the stunning views that come along the trail are worth experiencing. Standing at the highest point in England, your eyes will get stuck on the stretched lakes and hills seen from there.
You will also be able to explore the old mines and quarries present there. The starting point of this trail is Wasdale Head. It leads you to the Scafell Pike summit.
Distance/Time Taken for Round Trip: 17 Kms/5 – 6 hours (approx).
Safety Tips:
- Hear the weather forecast before setting out for the trail. In case of probable wet weather, it’s best to drop your plan.
- Stay safe from strong winds.
- Keep all the necessary items like a compass, GPS, etc, with you.
- Before heading for the trail, remember to take food and water in your bag.
Amenities Available:
- Ample parking areas.
- Shops for camping supplies.
- Eating and drinking facilities.
- Toilet and bathing facilities.
- Benches for campers.
Nearest Campsite: Wasdale Campsite.
3. West Highland Way
How about exploring the lochs and mountains starting from Milngavie? Sounds exciting, right? One of the best hiking trails of all, this journey is heart-melting indeed.
You will especially feel it when you pass through the regions of Lomond, Glencoe, etc. The history and culture of these places will leave you impressed.
While enjoying the mountain peaks, if you ever feel tired, many charming villages and towns lie midway where you can take a rest.
Though the hike is quite challenging, you will never feel short of campsites or accommodations to fuel your energy. Planning the itinerary for this trail is also not difficult.
Distance/Time Taken for Round Trip: 154 Kms/5 – 8 days (approx).
Safety Tips:
- Wearing hiking boots will do. But they have to be sturdy.
Amenities Available:
- Parking.
- Toilet and showers.
- Picnic tables.
- Drinking as well as dishwashing water.
- Nearby souvenir shops.
Nearest Campsite: The WHW Hotel & Campsite, Milngavie.
4. Pembrokeshire Coast Path
Want to explore some other Wales hiking trails? Then this Southwest Wales hiking trail starting from Amroth will take you to St. Dogmaels. On the way, you will find many lovely villages and coves.
Also, you will be able to embrace the sunshine, standing on many sandy beaches that are midway. The stunning cliffs, wildlife, nature, and awesome scenic views on the pathway to the Pembrokeshire coast will also leave you impressed.
Distance/Time Taken for Round Trip: 299 Kms/10-15 days (approx.)
Safety Tips:
- Stay updated with the tide times and weather (which remains mostly unpredictable) and plan your trip accordingly.
- Stay safe from the steep and rocky sections by wearing strong boots (made especially for hiking purposes).
Amenities Available:
- Dishwashing and laundry.
- Picnic tables.
- Bathrooms.
- Drinking water.
- Electric hook-ups.
Nearest Campsite: Tregroes Caravan, Camping and Glamping Park.
5. Pennine Way
Wanna know about another long-distance hiking trail, listed among the best hiking trails of all? It’s none other than the Pennine Way trail. This trail confronts you with many rugged landscapes.
Also, you will get to see many windswept moors on the way. The picturesque villages, fast-flowing rivers, and valleys on this trip will make you crazy with excitement.
The trail starts from Edale in Derbyshire. It brings you to Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders.
Distance/Time Taken for Round Trip: 431 Kms/16-19 days (approx.)
Safety Tips:
- Carry a compass/GPS equipment with you.
- Stay safe from the rivers. They are fast-flowing.
Amenities Available:
- Village pub.
- Cooking equipment and washing facilities.
- Campfires.
- Electric hook-ups, etc.
Nearest Campsite: Edale Camping Barn.
6. Ullswater Way
Now, how about satisfying your eyes with the views of wonderful woodlands? Choosing one of the popular Lake District hiking trails, the Ullswater Way, will give you such a privilege!
The trail starts from Pooley Bridge. It ends at Glenridding after passing through several villages. The wildlife and heather-covered moors on the pathway will leave an everlasting impression on your mind.
You will feel like embracing and cuddling the sweet red squirrels and falcons whom you will meet on the way.
Distance/Time Taken for Round Trip: 32 Kms/9.35 hours (approx).
Safety Tips:
- Surefootedness is a must.
- Travel with a compass.
Amenities Available:
- Boat Launch.
- Laundry and dishwashing facilities.
- On-site shops for camping supplies.
- Potable water.
- Bathrooms.
Nearest Campsite: Ullswater Holiday Park.
7. South West Coast Path
Here’s another tiring hiking trail that is considered one of the best hiking trails in the world. But the result will be fruitful. How to complete this trail? Well!
You have to start from Minehead in Somerset and keep going. After nearly 56 days, you will reach Poole Harbour in Dorset. Feeling curious about the outstanding natural beauties that fall in the middle? Some of them are –
- Dartmoor Park.
- Exmoor Park.
- Towering cliffs.
- Picturesque fishing villages.
- Secluded coves, etc.
Distance/Time Taken for Round Trip: 1014 Kms/7-8 weeks (approx.)
Safety Tips:
- Wearing suitable clothing.
- Carry a first-aid kit.
- Stay aware of steep drops.
- Be careful of rough seas.
Amenities Available:
- Restaurant.
- Indoor hot water facilities.
- Potable water and cooking equipment.
- Campfires.
- Children’s play area.
- Trash facilities.
Nearest Campsite: Wonton Park Camping.
8. PR9 Vereda do Areeiro
Ever heard about the adrenaline-rushing adventure of the Madeira hiking trails? Craving to attempt such a hike with other fellow hikers?
Then, you can try the PR9 Vereda do Areeiro trail. The beauty of the surrounding mountains in the Curral das Freiras (the starting point) will capture your soul in no time.
Also, you will confront many wild animals and birds, including the Madeiran long-toed pigeon. As you keep going through the route, you will see many beautiful forests, heather-covered moors, etc, and finally reach Pico do Areeiro, the end point of the trail after a tiring hike.
Distance/Time Taken: 7 Kms/3.30 hours (approx.)
Safety Tips:
- Stay prepared to face sudden rain, wind, or mist.
- Surefootedness on the rocky pathways is a must.
- Carry a GPS device in your backpack.
Amenities Available:
- Toilets & Showers.
- Potable water.
- Picnic tables.
- Laundry & dishwashing.
- On-site bar, restaurant, and shops.
Nearest Campsite: Parque Ecologico do Funchal Campsite.
9. Cairngorms National Park Trails (including the Trail from Aberdeen to Glasgow)
The best hiking trails in the UK are both mouthwatering and challenging at the same time. One of them is the Cairngorms National Park trails.
The routes included in these trails will take you to the 6 highest peaks in the entire United Kingdom. The longest trail among them starts from Aberdeen and drops you off in Glasgow.
The attractions of this trail are many, including the extraordinary natural scenery, ancient forests, moors, etc. But the best among them is the wildlife of the Park, along with the Reindeer Centre and the Strathspey Railway.
You will find a unique kind of joy in seeing different animals like red deer, golden eagles, etc.
Distance/Time Taken of the Longest Trail: 194 Kms/2.40 hours to 3.30 hours (approx)
Safety Tips:
- Plan the itinerary by sitting down with an experienced hiker.
- Wear suitable footwear.
- Notice all safety signs as you travel along the route.
Amenities Available:
- Bathrooms.
- Potable water.
- Pitches for tents and caravans.
- Pitches for motorhomes.
- Electric hook-up.
- Camping pods.
Nearest Campsite:
- Loch Morlich.
- Rothiemurchus Camp and Caravan Site.
- Braemar Caravan Park & Camping Pods.
10. PR10 Vereda da Ponta de Sao Lourenco
Wanna attempt a more challenging hike among all the popular Madeira hiking trails? Then come to Ponta de São Lourenço and start your journey from there.
Different mountains, valleys, forests, and moors will lead you to Baia do San Lourenco, the destination. You will also confront many Madeiran animals and birds and get to explore various ancient archaeological sites.
Distance/Time Taken: 7.2 Kms/2.30 hours (approx.)
Safety Tips:
- Stay updated with the weather.
- Carry necessary medicines and other substances.
Amenities Available:
- Toilets & Showers.
- Potable water.
- Picnic tables.
- Shop.
- On-site bar and restaurant.
Nearest Campsite: Parque Ecologico do Funchal Campsite.
Conclusion
So, which of the above best hiking trails of the UK has captured your heart? Whichever it may be, don’t be late to explore them. Pack up your bags, take all the necessary precautions, and just get set to go.
Happy Hiking!