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Complete Guide to Walking Holidays in England

Absolute Escapes July 23 2024

At Absolute Escapes, we pride ourselves on two decades of experience in arranging meticulously planned self-guided walking holidays across the British Isles.

Whether you are drawn to the rugged Lake District, historic Hadrian’s Wall, or the charming Cotswolds, our expert team is dedicated to crafting unforgettable hiking adventures in England.

Join us as we explore the finest trails, share essential tips, and inspire you to embark on your next great adventure.

General

Specific walks

Logistics and tips

More about Absolute Escapes

Walking the South West Coast Path in Cornwall

General

What are some unique aspects of hiking in England?

As the largest country in the UK, England boasts an incredible variety of diverse landscapes, from coastal cliffs to rolling hills and ancient woodlands. An extensive network of well-maintained public footpaths criss-crosses the country, with many areas managed by the National Trust.

Historic national trails such as the Pennine Way, Hadrian’s Wall Path and the South West Coast Path offer a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage, meandering through picturesque villages, medieval castles, and ancient Roman ruins.

While England’s famously unpredictable weather can add an element of challenge and surprise, you’re never far from a charming inn. If fortune smiles upon you with sunshine, you might enjoy refreshments in a delightful beer garden. Should the weather turn, fear not – you can savour classic English hospitality in a cosy pub with a roaring fire. It’s all part of the quintessential English walking experience!

 

What is the best time of year to walk in England?

We offer walking holidays on our long-distance trails in England between March and October, allowing you to experience the unique beauty each season brings.

Though we recommend walking from May to September for the best conditions, each month has its own appeal.

At the start of the season, in March and April, you’ll witness the emergence of spring flowers alongside the lingering traces of winter.

May and June are typically the driest and sunniest months, providing ideal walking conditions.

July and August are typically warmer but can also be wetter, so your preference for temperature or drier conditions may guide your choice.

In September and October, you’ll witness autumn creeping in, with gorgeous colours adorning the trees and landscapes.

Regarding accommodation availability, the UK school summer holidays in July and August can make many destinations particularly busy. In recent years, May has been the most popular month for many of our trails. We recommend booking well in advance to secure your preferred dates.

Gorse at Dunstanburgh Castle

 

Specific walks

Where is the best place for a walking holiday in England?

In our opinion, the best place for a walking holiday in England is the Lake District National Park. This spectacular region sits in north-west England and stretches for over 900 square miles. It’s home to Scafell Pike, England’s tallest mountain, and Windermere, the largest lake. Every corner you turn is packed with spectacular natural beauty. Our favourite locations include the dramatic Wasdale Valley, serene Buttermere, and picturesque Grasmere. It’s no wonder that many of our most popular walking holidays traverse this stunning area, including the Coast to Coast, Tour of the Lake District, and Cumbria Way.

What truly sets the Lake District apart is not just its breathtaking scenery, but also the warm hospitality awaiting you at the end of each day’s adventure. After a long day exploring the fells, you can hang up your boots in some of the country’s most unique and luxurious accommodations. From cosy traditional inns to elegant country houses, your evenings will be as memorable as your days on the trail.

For more inspiration, don’t miss our blog on the 9 Most Beautiful Places in England’s Lake District.

 

What are the most famous walks in England?

England boasts several world-renowned walks, each offering a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and cultural significance.

The Cotswold Way is perhaps the quintessential English countryside walk. This beloved trail winds through charming villages and rolling hills. Well-maintained paths guide walkers through a landscape steeped in history, offering glimpses of traditional architecture, ancient woodlands, and sweeping vistas.

Another famous walk is the iconic Coast to Coast, renowned for its challenging yet immensely rewarding 192-mile route from the Irish Sea to the North Sea. This iconic trail offers hikers a chance to experience some of England’s most scenic and varied terrain, combined with historical sites and charming villages. The Coast to Coast walk has become a bucket-list adventure for avid walkers worldwide.

History enthusiasts and nature lovers alike are drawn to Hadrian’s Wall Path. This fascinating trail follows the route of Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Romans in AD 122. As you walk in the footsteps of ancient Roman soldiers, you’ll encounter well-preserved forts, milecastles, and stretches of the original wall. The path meanders through rolling countryside and picturesque villages, offering a unique blend of historical intrigue and natural beauty.

Three walkers by the River Solway on the Hadrian's Wall Path

 

What are the easiest walking trails in England?

There are many trails that provide a mix of natural beauty, historical interest, and flatter terrain, ideal for a leisurely walking holiday. One of the easier long-distance trails in England is the Norfolk Coast Path, featuring well-maintained paths with little elevation, delightful coastal scenery, and charming seaside villages.

For those who prefer shorter walks or want to experience highlights of longer trails, many routes can be broken down into more manageable sections. Here are some trails that can be easily adapted for a gentler walking experience:

  • Thames Path: The stretches around Oxford and Henley offer flat, scenic routes along the River Thames.
  • Cotswold Way: Sections near Chipping Campden and Broadway provide gentle walks through the picturesque countryside and historic villages.
  • South Downs Way: The areas near Winchester or Eastbourne feature relatively flat and accessible paths with beautiful views of rolling chalk hills and coastal cliffs.

 

What is the longest walking trail in England?

The South West Coast Path is England’s longest waymarked National Trail, spanning 630 miles (1,014 km) along the stunning coastline of south-west England. The official start point for the trail is in Minehead, a small town located in Somerset. The trail then runs around Devon and Cornwall towards the bustling harbour town of Poole in Dorset, covering four counties.

While most walkers break down the South West Coast Path into smaller sections, the entire trail can be completed in 5 – 8 weeks. This is an ambitious endeavour and for some, a bucket list adventure. Absolute Escapes offers the trail in 8 sections, which can be combined and tailored to suit different requirements. If you want to learn more, delve into our Ultimate Guide to Walking the South West Coast Path.

Our Operations Manager, Katia, walking the South West Coast Path in Cornwall

 

What are the best mountains to climb in England?

England offers a great range of beautiful and adventurous peaks. We recommend climbing Scafell Pike in the Lake District. Being the highest peak in England, and having views overlooking England’s deepest lake – Wastwater – it’s easy to understand why 250,000 people climb it each year.

Helvellyn is another glorious peak in the Lake District. It is a challenging circuit but incredibly rewarding as it takes in the picturesque valley of Grisedale, before climbing onto the ridge up to the summit, where you can enjoy panoramic views.

For an exciting challenge, look no further than the Three Peaks in the Yorkshire Dales. Pen-y-ghent is the standout of the three, offering gorgeous views of the surrounding dales and moors as you ascend, with a steep but rewarding final climb to the summit.

Experience all of these and more by booking a Lake District & Yorkshire Dales National Parks multi-centre walking holiday with us.

 

What are the best coastal walks in England?

Our team would certainly agree that hopping between charming coastal villages alongside crashing waves is a very relaxing way to experience a long-distance walking trail. Dramatic views are not hard to come by on the coast, and the temptation of fresh seafood along the way can be irresistible! Simply following the coast also has its navigational advantages.

This is why we offer a variety of breathtaking coastal walks in England. For imposing castles, rolling dunes and unspoilt beaches, the Northumberland Coast Path is a great option and offers unique experiences such as a visit to Lindisfarne Castle, perched on a volcanic plug accessible only via a causeway at low tide.

For an island experience, why not try the Isle of Wight Coastal Path? Situated five miles off the south coast of England, the Isle of Wight offers an excellent circular trail. Take in the iconic view of The Needles – three distinctive stacks of white chalk which jut out into the sea, and amble between the bustling seaside towns and villages.

Walking on the Isle of Wight near The Needles

 

Are there any pilgrimage walks in England?

Absolutely. There are some wonderful pilgrimage walks in England, each offering incredibly rewarding experiences. One of our favourites is St Oswald’s Way, which begins in one of Europe’s most famous historic and religious sites, the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.

But what is a pilgrimage walk? If you’re not familiar, it is defined as a long-distance journey to a holy site. Following in the footsteps of many before you is a great way to reconnect and reflect on what’s important to you. It’s also a delightful and unique way to explore the country. These walks offer the chance to slow down, embrace nature, and discover places of great significance.

For a more in-depth look at our favourite pilgrimage experiences, check out our blog, Following Ancient Footsteps on Britain’s Best Pilgrimage Walks.

 

What are the best circular walks in England?

Whether you prefer coastal paths, mountainous routes, or serene woodland trails, there’s a circular walk to suit everyone’s taste. The Tour of the Lake District offers a scenic loop through the famous mountains and lakes, and the Isle of Wight Coastal Path provides a memorable island coastal circuit.

For a quintessential English experience through the Yorkshire Dales, we think the Herriot Way is one of the best circular walks in the country. This 52-mile route derives its name from a fictional character, written by a Yorkshire local, James Alfred Wight. Walkers enjoy a variety of landscapes, from lush valleys and rolling hills to rugged moorland and tranquil riversides. This trail begins and ends in Hawes, the home of Wensleydale Creamery, where you can reward yourself with some delicious cheese

Lush green scenery on the Herriot Way in Yorkshire

 

What is the best route to walk from England to Scotland?

Spanning 268 miles from Edale to Kirk Yetholm, the Pennine Way crosses from England into Scotland in its very final stages, dancing back and forth across the border over the Cheviot Hills, before descending into Kirk Yetholm, where you can celebrate your impressive achievement.

During your walk, you will pass through three national parks, home to many famous landmarks such as Malham Cove, Pen-y-Ghent, High Cup Nick, Cross Fell, Hadrian’s Wall and The Cheviot.

 

What are National Trails?

National Trails are specially designated long-distance trails, renowned for their scenic, historic and cultural significance. As of 2024, there are 16 trails in England and Wales that form part of this network, each offering a unique experience. The trails are well-maintained by a team of volunteers and clearly waymarked with an acorn symbol. There are varying difficulty levels depending on each trail, catering to walkers of all abilities.

The diversity of landscapes is wide, with trails such as the South West Coast Path and the Northumberland Coast Path offering stunning coastal views. Cornwall and Devon have dramatic cliffs, while Northumberland features peaceful expansive beaches.

The Pennine Way, in turn, winds through the rugged beauty of the Pennines and Yorkshire, while the Thames Path follows the iconic River Thames passing through quintessential English cities such as Oxford and London. Or you might prefer the Cotswold Way, as it meanders through picturesque rolling countryside and chocolate-box villages. There is something for everyone!

 

What are the best national parks for hiking in England?

Out of the ten English national parks, the Lake District is undoubtedly the most well-known. Its majestic lakes, rugged mountains and picturesque valleys make for a varied and scenic walking holiday. We offer four walking holidays that run through the Lake District – Tour of the Lake District, Dales Way, Cumbria Way and Coast to Coast.

The latter, Coast to Coast, also traverses through the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors, which are both also popular with hiking. The Yorkshire Dales features rolling hills, deep valleys, and stunning waterfalls, perfect for both gentle strolls and longer treks. The North York Moors being partially on the coast, is characterised by vast heather moorlands, dramatic coastal cliffs, and charming villages.

Walker at Runswick Bay in the North York Moors National Park

 

What are the best hiking trails in or near London?

London and its surroundings offer some unique hiking opportunities. What better way to see the city’s famous attractions than by exploring on foot? We recommend the Thames Path – East. Starting at Windsor Castle, you’ll walk along the banks of the River Thames with ample opportunity for sightseeing right on the trail. We recommend stopping in at Hampton Court Palace, Kew Gardens, the Tate Modern, and the Cutty Sark (to name just a few!)

The best hiking trail close to London is the Ridgeway, which explores the best of the Wessex Downs and the Chiltern Hills. It’s a must for history enthusiasts. The trail begins in Avebury, home to a Neolithic stone circle, and passes through heritage sites including Barbury Castle and White Horse Hill.

 

I want to get off the beaten track. Where are the most beautiful hidden corners of England?

England’s hidden gems offer stunning landscapes away from the crowds. Walk the Cleveland Way through the North York Moors National Park, with its heather-clad moorlands and coastal views. This 109-mile trail offers breathtaking scenery and charming villages, without being overwhelmed with visitors. In fact, many stretches of the trail remain quiet and undisturbed, making it an ideal escape for nature lovers.

Discover Northumberland’s rugged coastline and ancient castles on the Northumberland Coast Path, where dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and historical sites provide an unforgettable adventure. Renowned for offering some of Europe’s finest coastal walking, the path features wide, often deserted beaches and quaint fishing villages. Travel the path less travelled by making the journey along the wild, unspoilt coastline by foot.

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and discover England’s hidden treasures, you should also consider exploring the serene Cotswolds with its picturesque villages and rolling hills. Although some parts of the Cotswolds are busy with tourists, the Cotswold Way offers a unique opportunity to wander through tranquil landscapes and immerse yourself in the region’s timeless beauty.

Waymarker on the Cotswold Way

 

Logistics and tips

What should be on my packing list for walking in England?

When going on a walking holiday in England, there are some essential items which you should not be without. Waterproof hiking shoes, jacket and trousers are a must, as are hiking socks. When it comes to clothing, we usually advise light and comfortable layers. T-shirts are just as important as a warm fleece, as the weather can be difficult to predict.

In terms of equipment, we advise bringing a day rucksack with a rain cover, water bottle, sunscreen and sunglasses. You’ll need a guidebook and map, and your phone is also a useful navigation tool.

When you book an Absolute Escapes walking holiday, we provide you with a full kit list tailored to the trail you are doing, which takes a lot of the stress out of packing.

 

What footwear should I bring for walking in England?

We advise that clients invest in good-quality waterproof walking boots or sturdy walking shoes (fabric/leather with a firm grip) to be properly prepared for their holiday. Your feet are what get you through the walk, so it’s important to take care of them!

If you’re buying new walking boots for your trip, we highly recommend breaking them in well in advance of your holiday. This can be done by walking around as normal so that you become aware of any rubbing areas where potential blisters may occur.

Walking boots on the beach

 

What’s public transport like in England?

Walking trails in England often start and end in remote places, which can seem daunting and impractical without a car. Thankfully, England has an efficient and well-connected network of trains, coaches and buses.

We would recommend booking your trains in advance, if possible, as last-minute tickets can be expensive. You can do this on the Trainline website.

Opting for a coach or bus would be more cost-effective, and is often the only way to get to the hard-to-reach towns and villages.

We provide clients with information on how to get to and from the walking trails, and we’re always happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have about public transport. You could also use the Traveline website to plan your journey.

 

Where can I find food and drink along the trails?

All our itineraries are carefully crafted to include great spots for food and drink, with at least one evening option within walking distance of your accommodation. On busier trails, you’ll have a choice between local restaurants, pubs, and cafes. Since we personally research all our trails, we love recommending our favourite experiences, whether it is live music at a local pub or a fine-dining restaurant for a special evening meal.

If you venture further afield on one of our remote walking holidays, your accommodation host may provide your evening meal. Either way, food and drink along the trail are wonderful ways to connect with the heritage and culture of the area, and you’ll almost certainly find yourself in love with a local speciality, like Yorkshire pudding, Cornish pasties, and Kendal mint cake (to name a few of our favourites!).

Cornish pasty on the South West Coast Path

 

Are the walking trails in England easy to follow? Will I need a compass or map?

Whether you have a great sense of direction or struggle to read a map, you can rest assured there is a trail for you. Our walking holidays cater for every level of ability, ranging from easy strolls to invigorating challenges. We always ensure you are fully equipped with the relevant maps and guidebooks regardless of the trail’s navigation level. A compass could, of course, be useful too!

We grade the difficulty of our walking holidays on the following scale:

  • Easy
  • Moderate
  • Challenging
  • Strenuous

On our website, we also indicate whether a trail is way-marked, so you can browse through the holidays we offer and decide what would suit you best. A beginner-friendly trail would be the Thames Path. It is fully way-marked and has an easy to moderate grade, following the river, making it difficult to get lost.

If you are unsure which walking trail would suit you best, get in touch and we can help you pick the perfect holiday for you.

 

Are there any useful apps to download before walking in England?

There are a variety of useful apps available which can enhance your walking experience. On OutdoorActive, you can view most long-distance walking trails as an overlay on the map, and you are also able to download maps to use offline should you have no signal (this also saves your battery). AllTrails and Komoot also offer offline maps and have information about different walk sections.

Our team enjoys using tracking apps such as Strava, which allow you to record your walks. It’s a great way to see how far you’ve come, along with elevation information and other interesting statistics.

As the weather in England can be changeable, we recommend using a reliable weather forecasting app, such as Met Office, to ensure you can be best prepared for the day.

Walker on the Coast to Coast in the Lake District

 

What’s accommodation like in England?

In England, there is a huge variety of accommodation along our walking trails. Many of our walkers love to stay in bed & breakfasts (B&Bs). They are part of a large private home and have around one to four rooms. The hosts usually live on-site, and due to the small scale of the business, will give you a warm welcome and cater to any requirements. If you are looking for an authentic local experience, then a B&B is the best option for you.

Inns are also popular along walking trails. An inn is similar to a small hotel in scale and usually has a cosy pub or restaurant on-site. Many inns in England have a fascinating history, and date back several centuries.

Lastly, you will also find hotels on an English walking holiday. These range from reliable national chains to independently owned and unique places to stay.

 

Can I stay in luxury accommodation on my walking holiday?

You certainly can! We offer Premium packages on the Cotswold Way, Cumbria Way, Cleveland Way, Lady Anne’s Way, St Oswald’s Way, and the Dales Way.

Our Premium packages feature the best available accommodation in each overnight location. For example, one of our featured accommodations is St Michael’s Bistro in Painswick on the Cotswold Way, which is lovingly run by Matt and Magda. Another is The Devonshire Fell Hotel at Burnsall, on the Dales Way. Due to limited accommodation options along some remote trails, the quality of establishments can vary on a premium package.

We can also offer Premium upgrades in selected locations for some trails, such as the Coast to Coast. Due to the isolated nature of the overnight locations, most accommodation options fall into our Standard accommodation category. However, there are options to upgrade to higher-end accommodation in places such as Grasmere or Reeth, where you could stay at the 5* Moss Grove Organic or the historic Burgoyne Hotel.

If you wish to upgrade, please get in touch with your Travel Specialist, who will be delighted to offer a range of options to make your walking holiday experience extra special.

Bedroom at the Devonshire Fell Hotel

 

Can you recommend some of your favourite places for walkers to stay in England?

In England, walkers are truly spoiled for choice when it comes to fantastic places to stay. From charming inns and cosy B&Bs to luxurious spa hotels, there’s accommodation to suit every taste and budget. We have too many favourites to share but here are some standout options that have welcomed our clients over the years:

  • Cumbria Way – Nestled in the heart of the stunning Lake District, Hillcrest 22 in Keswick is an exceptional, family-run guest house. Positioned ideally with panoramic views of Derwentwater, guests are invited to enjoy afternoon tea with homemade cakes in the beautiful garden or relax by the log fire in the dining room.
  • Pennine Way – The Rowe House in Horton-in-Ribblesdale offers tired walkers a cosy haven with comfortable beds, hearty breakfasts, and a warm welcome amidst the rugged beauty of the Yorkshire Dales. This luxurious bed and breakfast has ideal facilities for walkers, like a drying area, maps and guidebooks, and lots of precious local expertise.
  • South West Coast Path – The Field House in Pendeen is a tranquil retreat offering panoramic views of cliffs, sandy beaches, and the soothing sounds of crashing waves. The cool contemporary decor, relaxed atmosphere and incredible food (prepared by your host, Viv) create a perfect match for the gorgeous Cornish scenery.
  • The Ridgeway – Featuring an organic farm on site, Helen Browning’s Royal Oak is a boutique hotel and dining pub in Wiltshire. With incredible food, occasional live music in the stunning beer garden, lovely rooms and excellent local ale, this beauty is a treasured stop on a long-distance walking holiday.
  • Coast to Coast – Fletcher House in Kirkby Stephen in Cumbria embodies the essence of traditional English hospitality against the backdrop of rolling hills and narrow valleys. Steve and Gillian are fantastic hosts, renowned for their warm welcome and genuine care.

 

Do you have any other tips for hiking in England?

Comfortable footwear is essential. It may sound obvious, but it is vital to have worn your boots in a little to ensure they are right before embarking on a long-distance walk. We also highly recommend having a second pair of shoes – a lighter option – because wearing boots for consecutive days can be painful, especially on trails with road sections.

Bring a first aid kit. While we don’t expect anything to go wrong when setting out on a walk, it’s better to be safe than sorry and bring emergency supplies such as plasters (including blister plasters), dressings, antiseptic wipes and a foil blanket. If you are walking through grassy or wooded areas, it’s best to include fine-pointed tweezers or a tick-removal tool in case you encounter any pesky ticks.

While many of the long-distance trails in England are well-waymarked, we still recommend brushing up on your navigation skills, especially as difficult weather conditions can make the markers hard to spot in some places.

Walker holding Pennine Way guidebook

 

More about Absolute Escapes

What types of walking holidays do you offer?

We offer a variety of self-guided walking holidays on the UK’s best-loved long-distance trails. We handle your arrangements, including accommodation, bag transfers and any transfers. We then provide you with everything you need to walk the route independently, from guidebooks and maps to information about where to eat every day. This allows you the freedom to walk at your own pace and enjoy some of the best landscapes our country has to offer.

We also offer multi-centre walking holidays, which involve staying in a couple of different locations and making daily excursions. We will organise your car hire, which gives you the flexibility to access some of the more remote and spectacular corners of the country, from national parks to secluded islands. We will provide recommended walking routes for each day, ranging from short strolls to full-day hikes.

 

The South West Coast Path is consistently one of our most popular walking holidays, and it is no surprise why! The 630-mile-long National Trail meanders around the spectacular coastlines of Somerset, Devon, Cornwall and Dorset. The scenery is varied – from high cliffs and sweeping sands to quaint fishing villages and historical sites. If you are unable to tackle the full trail at once, we can break it down into shorter sections. It is a trail that offers something for everyone!

The Hadrian’s Wall Path and the Cotswold Way are certainly two more of our clients’ top choices. On both trails, the beautiful scenery and captivating history are seamlessly intertwined. Explore Roman forts along Hadrian’s Wall, or delve into the picturesque Cotswolds, where you will discover historic battle sites, abbeys and Roman villas amongst the rolling hills.

View of Roman Baths and Bath Abbey

 

Do you offer guided walking tours?

Currently, we only offer self-guided walking tours. We believe that being self-guided is a great way to discover England’s sights and scenery. It gives you the freedom to get out and walk at your own pace, and the chance to explore at leisure.

 

Do you offer dog-friendly walking holidays?

As dog people ourselves, we would love to be able to organise a dog-friendly package. Unfortunately, due to the lack of dog-friendly accommodation and places to dine along our walking trails, we’re not currently able to offer dog-friendly walking holidays at this stage.

 

Why should I book a walking holiday with Absolute Escapes?

When you choose Absolute Escapes for your walking holiday in England, you’re selecting a team dedicated to creating a seamless and unforgettable experience. We specialise in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your preferences and fitness level, ensuring you can make the most of your valuable time. From charming accommodations carefully selected for comfort and character to expertly managed logistics including baggage transfers, we handle every detail.

With our local knowledge and passion for travel, we’re committed to providing you with the best possible walking holiday in England, leaving you free to savour every moment of your adventure. Embark on your next walking adventure with us and experience the beauty and tranquillity of England like never before.

Absolute Escapes team walking the St Cuthbert's Way to Morebattle

 

How can I book a walking holiday in England?

We would be delighted to organise your walking holiday in England!

With so many trails to choose from, we recommend exploring our website to find the perfect route for you. You can easily search by region or length to help narrow down your options.

If you have already chosen a walking trail, please submit an enquiry via our website. This is the best way for us to capture all your preferences, and one of our Travel Specialists will be in touch promptly. Your specialist will work with you to create a personalised quote.

If you’re eager for a walking adventure but unsure where to start, we are here to help. Please contact us by phone at +44 (0) 131 610 1210 or email enquiries@absoluteescapes.com, and we will gladly assist you in finding your perfect escape.

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