Busy Schedule? Here are 6 Brilliant Hiking Trails You Can Walk in a Week
“Jobs fill your pockets, adventures fill your soul.”
We all need to break the routine and discover new experiences, but work and life commitments often throw a spanner in the works.
With this in mind, we’ve rounded up our favourite long-distance walks in the UK that can be comfortably conquered in seven days or less. A week is all you need to recharge your batteries, reconnect with nature, and hit the reset button.
Absolute Escapes specialise in exceptional self-guided walking holidays with a minimum of four nights’ accommodation. Read on to find your perfect mini-adventure.
Berwickshire Coastal Path
If you’re really going for it, this bite-sized 30-mile trail could be completed over two days (this is how our intrepid Travel Specialist, Charlotte, spent her birthday weekend!).
For a more relaxing experience, make your way to the historic town of Dunbar – 30 miles east of Edinburgh. From here, spend a day walking the John Muir Link to the official start of the trail in Cockburnspath. Three days of brilliant coastal walking awaits, ending just across the English border in Berwick-upon-Tweed.
The Berwickshire Coastal Path (including the John Muir Link) can be easily tackled over four days, making for an exhilarating long weekend.
Top tip: Give yourself plenty of time to explore St Abb’s Head. This world-class nature reserve is home to an incredible array of seabirds and some of the highest sea cliffs in Britain.
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Herriot Way
The TV remake of All Creatures Great and Small was a surprise global hit, throwing the life of Yorkshire vet James Herriot back into the spotlight. The gentle pace of life and idyllic Yorkshire landscapes provided comforting escapism for millions during lockdown.
The 52-mile Herriot Way follows in the footsteps of the famous vet, passing through Hawes, Hardraw and Askrigg which were all prime filming locations for Darrowby and Skeldale House in the TV series. Most walkers complete this gentle circular route over four days of walking.
Top tip: As Hawes is both the start and endpoint of the trail, you can justify two visits to the Wensleydale Creamery for some delicious local cheese!
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Moray Coast Trail
Running along the picturesque Moray coast in northeast Scotland, this 44-mile route is more proof that great things come in small packages.
Named by National Geographic as one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines, Moray is home to spectacular rock formations and charming fishing villages. It was also an important centre for Scotland’s ancient Pictish Kingdom and you can discover Neolithic ruins and Pictish carvings along the way.
Top tip: The trail ends in the colourful village of Cullen where you can reward yourself with a bowl of Cullen Skink – a hearty soup made from smoked haddock and potatoes.
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Jersey Coastal Path
The Channel Islands are undoubtedly our most exotic walking destination with sun-soaked beaches and French vibes! Their largest island of Jersey was made for a walking holiday, with a stunning coastline and vibrant villages. The mouth-watering local cuisine and excellent climate are an added bonus.
The 48-mile trail begins and ends in the bustling capital of St Helier, and the loop around the island can be tackled at a comfortable pace over five days.
Top tip: For a real treat, upgrade to Premium accommodation and enjoy a stay at L’Horizon Beach Hotel in St Brelade’s Bay. The outdoor terrace offers sensational views across the beach to the coast of France.
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Isle of Wight Coastal Path
Some of England’s most dramatic scenery is crammed into this little island just off the south coast. The 67-mile coastal path takes in every inch of the spectacular coastline – passing towering cliffs, vibrant seaside towns, and the iconic chalk stacks of The Needles.
With an enviable sunshine record and an excellent standard of accommodation and hospitality, this is a rewarding mini-adventure that can be completed over five days of walking.
Top tip: Add an additional day in Cowes and spend some time exploring magnificent Osborne House. This was Queen Victoria’s palatial holiday home and the view from the garden terraces across the Solent reminded Prince Albert of the Bay of Naples.
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St Cuthbert’s Way
St Cuthbert’s Way is right up there with the best walking trails in the UK, featuring glorious scenery, idyllic villages and historic interest by the bucketload.
The adventure begins at Melrose Abbey in the Scottish Borders and climbs over the Eildon Hills before following stretches of the mighty River Tweed, ending with a dramatic crossing of the tidal causeway to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne.
The route connects places associated with St Cuthbert, who began his monastic career at Melrose Abbey in 650AD and eventually became the Abbot at Lindisfarne.
Top tip: Keen to extend your adventure? You could head north from Holy Island onto the aforementioned Berwickshire Coastal Path, or continue south to explore the wonderful coast of Northumberland.
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Ready for an Adventure?
Whether you’re looking for a short break or an epic getaway, we can help. Our award-winning self-guided walking holidays include carefully-selected B&B accommodation, baggage transfers, a guidebook/map, and everything you’ll need to enjoy a superb walking experience.
Don’t take our word for it – check out our independent reviews on AITO.com, and get in touch with our expert team to start planning.
Scott Smyth
