25 Best Hiking Trails in the UK (2026): Scenic Walks & Mountain Adventures
The United Kingdom offers some of the world’s most rewarding hiking experiences, from rugged Highland peaks and dramatic coastal cliffs to peaceful countryside footpaths and ancient national parks. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely family walk, a challenging mountain ascent, or a multi-day trekking adventure, the UK has trails suitable for every level of hiker.
From the legendary West Highland Way in Scotland and the iconic Pennine Way to the breathtaking ridges of Snowdonia (Eryri) and the stunning South West Coast Path, these routes showcase Britain’s incredible natural beauty.
Here are the 25 best hiking trails in the UK for 2026.
1. West Highland Way (Scotland)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Milngavie to Fort William, Scotland |
| Best For | Long-distance hiking, Highland scenery |
| Trail Length | 96 miles (154 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | May–September |
The West Highland Way is Scotland’s most famous long-distance hiking trail, stretching from the outskirts of Glasgow to the foot of Ben Nevis. Along the route, hikers pass tranquil lochs, ancient woodlands, open moorlands, and dramatic Highland mountains, making it one of Europe’s finest walking adventures.
Don’t Miss
- Walk along Loch Lomond
- Cross Rannoch Moor
- Visit Glencoe viewpoints
- Finish in Fort William
- Watch sunrise over the Highlands
- Celebrate at the trail’s finish marker
2. Pennine Way (England)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Derbyshire to Northumberland |
| Best For | Multi-day trekking, countryside scenery |
| Trail Length | 268 miles (431 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | May–September |
The Pennine Way is England’s oldest National Trail and one of its greatest hiking challenges. Traversing the backbone of England, the route passes rolling hills, waterfalls, limestone valleys, and remote moorlands while connecting three national parks.
Don’t Miss
- Explore Malham Cove
- Visit High Force Waterfall
- Walk through the Yorkshire Dales
- Experience Hadrian’s Wall
- Spot wildlife on the moors
- Complete one of Britain’s greatest hikes
3. South West Coast Path (England)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Somerset to Dorset via Devon and Cornwall |
| Best For | Coastal hiking, sea views, photography |
| Trail Length | 630 miles (1,014 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | April–October |
The South West Coast Path is the UK’s longest National Trail, offering spectacular coastal scenery, hidden beaches, towering cliffs, and charming seaside villages. Hike a short section or take on the entire route for an unforgettable adventure.
Don’t Miss
- Visit Land’s End
- Walk the Jurassic Coast
- Explore St Ives
- Spot dolphins and seabirds
- Photograph dramatic sea cliffs
- Enjoy traditional Cornish villages
4. Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) Llanberis Path (Wales)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park |
| Best For | Mountain hiking, beginners |
| Trail Length | 9 miles (14.5 km) round trip |
| Best Time to Visit | May–September |
The Llanberis Path is the easiest and most popular route to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), the highest mountain in Wales. The gradual ascent rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views across mountains, lakes, and the Irish Sea.
Don’t Miss
- Reach Wales’ highest summit
- Ride the Snowdon Mountain Railway (one way)
- Photograph Llyn Padarn
- Enjoy panoramic mountain views
- Visit Llanberis village
- Start early to avoid crowds
5. Helvellyn via Striding Edge (England)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Lake District National Park |
| Best For | Experienced hikers, ridge walks |
| Trail Length | 8 miles (13 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | May–September |
One of England’s most iconic mountain hikes, Helvellyn via Striding Edge combines exhilarating ridge walking with spectacular Lake District scenery. The route is famous for its narrow ridge, making it a favorite among experienced hikers seeking adventure.
Don’t Miss
- Cross the famous Striding Edge ridge
- Reach Helvellyn summit
- Photograph Red Tarn
- Enjoy panoramic Lake District views
- Visit Glenridding village
- Hike during clear weather for the best visibility
6. Hadrian’s Wall Path (England)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Wallsend to Bowness-on-Solway, Northern England |
| Best For | History, long-distance walking, countryside views |
| Trail Length | 84 miles (135 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | April–October |
Following the route of the ancient Roman frontier, the Hadrian’s Wall Path combines fascinating history with rolling countryside, archaeological sites, and panoramic landscapes. It’s one of England’s most rewarding National Trails for history enthusiasts and hikers alike.
Don’t Miss
- Explore Housesteads Roman Fort
- Walk along preserved sections of Hadrian’s Wall
- Visit Vindolanda Roman Fort
- Photograph Sycamore Gap area
- Stop at Roman museums
- Enjoy sweeping countryside views
7. Quiraing Trail (Scotland)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Isle of Skye, Scottish Highlands |
| Best For | Photography, dramatic landscapes, day hikes |
| Trail Length | 4.2 miles (6.8 km) loop |
| Best Time to Visit | May–September |
The Quiraing Trail showcases one of Scotland’s most extraordinary landscapes, featuring towering cliffs, jagged rock formations, and breathtaking views across the Isle of Skye. Every turn offers spectacular photo opportunities, making it a favorite among nature photographers.
Don’t Miss
- Walk through the dramatic rock formations
- Photograph The Needle and The Table
- Enjoy panoramic views of Skye
- Visit at sunrise for magical lighting
- Explore nearby Staffin
- Watch for Highland wildlife
8. Old Man of Storr (Scotland)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Isle of Skye, Scotland |
| Best For | Iconic viewpoints, photography, hiking |
| Trail Length | 2.7 miles (4.3 km) round trip |
| Best Time to Visit | April–October |
The Old Man of Storr is one of Scotland’s most recognizable landmarks. This short but steep hike leads to a towering rock pinnacle surrounded by dramatic cliffs and sweeping views of the Isle of Skye’s rugged coastline.
Don’t Miss
- Reach the famous rock pinnacle
- Photograph the sunrise over Skye
- Enjoy views of the Sound of Raasay
- Explore nearby Kilt Rock
- Visit before the crowds arrive
- Capture dramatic cloud-filled landscapes
9. Catbells Walk (England)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Lake District National Park, Cumbria |
| Best For | Families, beginners, scenic viewpoints |
| Trail Length | 3.5 miles (5.6 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | April–October |
One of the most popular hikes in the Lake District, Catbells offers a relatively easy climb with incredible panoramic views over Derwentwater, Keswick, and the surrounding fells. It’s ideal for families and first-time visitors.
Don’t Miss
- Climb to the Catbells summit
- Photograph Derwentwater from above
- Visit Keswick afterward
- Enjoy a lakeside picnic
- Hike during sunrise or sunset
- Spot local wildlife along the trail
10. Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk (England)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | East Sussex, South Downs National Park |
| Best For | Coastal hiking, photography, sea views |
| Trail Length | 8.5 miles (13.7 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | April–October |
The Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk is one of England’s most spectacular coastal hikes. The rolling white chalk cliffs overlooking the English Channel provide breathtaking scenery and some of the country’s most photographed coastal landscapes.
Don’t Miss
- Walk across the Seven Sisters cliffs
- Visit Beachy Head nearby
- Photograph the white chalk coastline
- Watch seabirds soaring overhead
- Explore Birling Gap
- Enjoy sunset over the English Channel
11. Arthur’s Seat (Scotland)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Holyrood Park, Edinburgh |
| Best For | City hiking, panoramic views, photography |
| Trail Length | 2.7 miles (4.3 km) round trip |
| Best Time to Visit | April–October |
Rising above the heart of Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat is an extinct volcano and one of Scotland’s most popular urban hikes. The short climb rewards visitors with breathtaking 360-degree views of Edinburgh Castle, the Old Town, the Firth of Forth, and the surrounding countryside.
Don’t Miss
- Reach the summit for panoramic city views
- Watch sunrise over Edinburgh
- Explore Holyrood Park
- Visit Holyrood Palace nearby
- Photograph Salisbury Crags
- Enjoy a sunset hike
12. Glyderau Traverse (Wales)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park |
| Best For | Mountain hiking, scrambling, experienced hikers |
| Trail Length | 9.5 miles (15.3 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | May–September |
The Glyderau Traverse is one of Wales’ most spectacular mountain hikes, taking adventurers across rugged peaks, dramatic ridges, and unusual rock formations. It offers stunning views of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Llyn Idwal, and the surrounding mountains.
Don’t Miss
- Visit Castell y Gwynt rock formations
- Stand on Glyder Fach and Glyder Fawr
- Explore Llyn Idwal below
- Photograph Bristly Ridge
- Experience panoramic mountain scenery
- Start early for the best weather
13. Fairy Pools Trail (Scotland)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Glen Brittle, Isle of Skye |
| Best For | Scenic walks, waterfalls, photography |
| Trail Length | 1.5 miles (2.4 km) round trip |
| Best Time to Visit | May–September |
The Fairy Pools Trail is one of the Isle of Skye’s most famous walks, leading visitors to a series of crystal-clear blue pools and cascading waterfalls beneath the dramatic Black Cuillin Mountains. It’s an easy hike suitable for most visitors.
Don’t Miss
- Photograph the turquoise pools
- Walk alongside the waterfalls
- Enjoy views of the Black Cuillin
- Visit early to avoid crowds
- Cross the charming stone bridges
- Bring a camera for long-exposure shots
14. Mam Tor Circular Walk (England)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Peak District National Park |
| Best For | Ridge walks, beginners, scenic views |
| Trail Length | 6 miles (9.7 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | April–October |
Known as the “Shivering Mountain,” Mam Tor offers one of the Peak District’s most iconic ridge walks. The circular trail features sweeping views of rolling hills, limestone valleys, and the picturesque village of Castleton.
Don’t Miss
- Walk along the Great Ridge
- Visit Castleton village
- Explore Winnats Pass
- Photograph the Peak District landscape
- Watch sunrise from the summit
- Visit nearby Blue John Cavern
15. Causeway Coast Way (Northern Ireland)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Portstewart to Ballycastle |
| Best For | Coastal hiking, sea cliffs, road trips |
| Trail Length | 33 miles (53 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | April–October |
The Causeway Coast Way follows one of Europe’s most scenic coastlines, passing dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, charming fishing villages, and the world-famous Giant’s Causeway. It’s one of Northern Ireland’s finest long-distance walking routes.
Don’t Miss
- Visit the Giant’s Causeway
- Cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
- Explore Ballintoy Harbour
- Photograph Dunluce Castle
- Watch Atlantic waves crash against the cliffs
- Enjoy fresh seafood in Ballycastle
16. Scafell Pike Corridor Route (England)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Lake District National Park, Cumbria |
| Best For | Mountain climbing, experienced hikers, summit views |
| Trail Length | 9 miles (14.5 km) round trip |
| Best Time to Visit | May–September |
The Corridor Route is widely regarded as the most scenic way to reach Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain at 978 meters (3,209 feet). The trail winds through dramatic valleys, rocky landscapes, and mountain streams before reaching the summit, offering breathtaking views across the Lake District.
Don’t Miss
- Reach the summit of England’s highest mountain
- Enjoy panoramic Lake District views
- Explore Lingmell Beck
- Photograph Great End and Great Gable
- Start early for fewer crowds
- Pack suitable mountain gear
17. Ben Nevis Mountain Track (Scotland)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Fort William, Scottish Highlands |
| Best For | Summit climbs, adventure, mountain scenery |
| Trail Length | 10.5 miles (17 km) round trip |
| Best Time to Visit | May–September |
Standing at 1,345 meters (4,413 feet), Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the United Kingdom. The Mountain Track, formerly known as the Tourist Path, is the most popular route to the summit and rewards hikers with spectacular views over the Scottish Highlands.
Don’t Miss
- Reach the highest point in the UK
- Explore Fort William before or after your hike
- Photograph the summit cairn
- Check weather conditions before setting out
- Visit during summer for safer conditions
- Watch the clouds roll across the Highlands
18. Llyn Idwal Circular Walk (Wales)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park |
| Best For | Family hikes, mountain scenery, photography |
| Trail Length | 3 miles (4.8 km) loop |
| Best Time to Visit | April–October |
Surrounded by towering cliffs and glacial landscapes, the Llyn Idwal Circular Walk is one of Wales’ most accessible mountain hikes. The easy trail circles the tranquil lake while offering magnificent views of the Glyderau mountain range.
Don’t Miss
- Walk around Llyn Idwal
- Photograph Devil’s Kitchen
- Spot rare alpine plants
- Explore the visitor centre
- Enjoy family-friendly hiking
- Visit during sunrise for calm reflections
19. Malham Cove Walk (England)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Yorkshire Dales National Park |
| Best For | Limestone landscapes, family walks, photography |
| Trail Length | 7 miles (11 km) circular |
| Best Time to Visit | April–October |
The Malham Cove Walk takes visitors through one of England’s most spectacular limestone landscapes. Highlights include the towering limestone amphitheater of Malham Cove, Gordale Scar, and the peaceful woodland waterfall of Janet’s Foss.
Don’t Miss
- Climb the steps to the top of Malham Cove
- Visit Janet’s Foss
- Explore Gordale Scar
- Photograph the limestone pavement
- Visit Malham village
- Enjoy scenic countryside views
20. Giant’s Causeway Cliff Walk (Northern Ireland)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | County Antrim, Northern Ireland |
| Best For | Coastal scenery, geology, photography |
| Trail Length | 3.2 miles (5.2 km) |
| Best Time to Visit | April–October |
The Giant’s Causeway Cliff Walk offers spectacular views of Northern Ireland’s rugged coastline while leading hikers to the world-famous hexagonal basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway. It’s one of the country’s most scenic coastal trails.
Don’t Miss
- Explore the Giant’s Causeway
- Walk along the dramatic sea cliffs
- Photograph the basalt columns
- Visit the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre
- Watch Atlantic waves crash below
- Enjoy panoramic coastal views
21. Cheddar Gorge Circular Walk (England)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Somerset, Mendip Hills National Landscape |
| Best For | Limestone cliffs, scenic viewpoints, family hiking |
| Trail Length | 4 miles (6.4 km) circular |
| Best Time to Visit | April–October |
The Cheddar Gorge Circular Walk takes hikers through England’s largest limestone gorge, featuring towering cliffs, dramatic rock formations, and panoramic views across the Somerset countryside. The trail combines geological wonders with rich history, making it one of southern England’s most popular hikes.
Don’t Miss
- Walk along the cliff-top trail
- Visit Cheddar Gorge Caves
- Enjoy panoramic views from Lookout Tower
- Spot wild goats on the cliffs
- Explore Cheddar Village
- Taste authentic Cheddar cheese
22. The Cobbler (Ben Arthur) Trail (Scotland)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Arrochar Alps, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park |
| Best For | Mountain climbing, scrambling, photography |
| Trail Length | 7 miles (11.3 km) round trip |
| Best Time to Visit | May–September |
Known for its distinctive rocky summit, The Cobbler (Ben Arthur) is one of Scotland’s most iconic mountains. The trail offers an exciting mix of forest paths, steep ascents, and optional scrambling, rewarding hikers with stunning views over Loch Long and the Arrochar Alps.
Don’t Miss
- Reach the famous rocky summit
- Photograph Loch Long from above
- Explore Arrochar village
- Enjoy spectacular Highland scenery
- Challenge yourself with the summit scramble
- Start early to beat the crowds
23. Golden Cap Walk (England)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Dorset, Jurassic Coast |
| Best For | Coastal hiking, sea views, photography |
| Trail Length | 4 miles (6.5 km) round trip |
| Best Time to Visit | April–October |
At 191 meters (627 feet), Golden Cap is the highest point on England’s south coast. This rewarding hike offers breathtaking views across the Jurassic Coast, stretching from Portland to Dartmoor on clear days.
Don’t Miss
- Reach the highest point on England’s south coast
- Enjoy panoramic Jurassic Coast views
- Visit Seatown Beach
- Photograph the dramatic cliffs
- Explore nearby Charmouth
- Watch the sunset over the English Channel
24. Cadair Idris Minffordd Path (Wales)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, Gwynedd |
| Best For | Mountain hiking, scenic lakes, experienced hikers |
| Trail Length | 6 miles (9.7 km) round trip |
| Best Time to Visit | May–September |
The Minffordd Path is one of the most scenic routes to the summit of Cadair Idris, one of Wales’ most legendary mountains. The trail passes tranquil mountain lakes, rugged ridges, and dramatic cliffs before reaching panoramic summit views.
Don’t Miss
- Climb to the summit of Cadair Idris
- Visit Llyn Cau glacial lake
- Photograph the surrounding peaks
- Explore the Minffordd Nature Reserve
- Start early for clear mountain views
- Watch the sunrise from the summit
25. Slieve Donard Trail (Northern Ireland)
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Mourne Mountains, County Down |
| Best For | Mountain hiking, summit views, nature |
| Trail Length | 7.5 miles (12 km) round trip |
| Best Time to Visit | April–October |
The Slieve Donard Trail leads to the highest peak in Northern Ireland at 850 meters (2,789 feet). Beginning in the seaside town of Newcastle, the route follows the Glen River before climbing into the rugged Mourne Mountains, offering spectacular views across the Irish Sea.
Don’t Miss
- Reach Northern Ireland’s highest summit
- Walk alongside the Glen River
- Photograph the Mourne Mountains
- Enjoy views of the Irish Sea
- Visit Newcastle after your hike
- Hike during sunrise for unforgettable scenery
Best Hiking Trails in the UK by Travel Style
| Travel Style | Recommended Hiking Trails |
|---|---|
| Best for Beginners | Catbells Walk, Arthur’s Seat, Llyn Idwal Circular Walk, Fairy Pools Trail |
| Best Mountain Hikes | Ben Nevis Mountain Track, Scafell Pike Corridor Route, Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) Llanberis Path, Cadair Idris Minffordd Path |
| Best Long-Distance Trails | West Highland Way, Pennine Way, South West Coast Path, Hadrian’s Wall Path |
| Best Coastal Walks | Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk, South West Coast Path, Causeway Coast Way, Golden Cap Walk |
| Best Family-Friendly Hikes | Catbells Walk, Fairy Pools Trail, Arthur’s Seat, Llyn Idwal Circular Walk |
| Best Photography Trails | Quiraing Trail, Old Man of Storr, Seven Sisters Cliffs Walk, Giant’s Causeway Cliff Walk |
| Best Ridge Walks | Helvellyn via Striding Edge, Mam Tor Circular Walk, Glyderau Traverse, The Cobbler Trail |
| Best Historic Trails | Hadrian’s Wall Path, Arthur’s Seat, Pennine Way, Causeway Coast Way |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the most famous hiking trail in the UK?
The West Highland Way is widely considered the UK’s most famous hiking trail. Stretching 96 miles (154 km) through the Scottish Highlands, it offers stunning scenery, charming villages, and unforgettable mountain landscapes.
2. Which is the longest hiking trail in the UK?
The South West Coast Path is the UK’s longest National Trail, covering approximately 630 miles (1,014 km) along the spectacular coastlines of Somerset, Devon, Cornwall, and Dorset.
3. What is the best mountain hike in the UK?
Some of the UK’s top mountain hikes include:
- Ben Nevis Mountain Track (Scotland)
- Scafell Pike Corridor Route (England)
- Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) Llanberis Path (Wales)
- Slieve Donard Trail (Northern Ireland)
Each trail offers incredible summit views and memorable hiking experiences.
4. Which hiking trails are suitable for beginners?
If you’re new to hiking, these trails are excellent choices:
- Catbells Walk
- Arthur’s Seat
- Fairy Pools Trail
- Llyn Idwal Circular Walk
- Cheddar Gorge Circular Walk
These routes are well-marked, relatively accessible, and provide rewarding scenery without requiring advanced hiking skills.
5. When is the best time to go hiking in the UK?
The best hiking season depends on your preferences:
- Spring (March–May): Wildflowers, lush landscapes, and mild temperatures.
- Summer (June–August): Longer daylight hours and ideal mountain conditions.
- Autumn (September–October): Vibrant autumn colors and quieter trails.
- Winter (November–February): Suitable only for experienced hikers due to snow, ice, and rapidly changing weather in upland areas.
6. What should I pack for hiking in the UK?
Essential hiking gear includes:
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Weatherproof jacket
- Layered clothing
- Map or GPS device
- Plenty of water and snacks
- First-aid kit
- Fully charged phone or power bank
Mountain weather can change quickly, so always check the forecast before setting out.
Conclusion
From the rugged peaks of Ben Nevis and Scafell Pike to the dramatic cliffs of the Seven Sisters and the breathtaking landscapes of the Quiraing, the United Kingdom offers an incredible variety of hiking experiences. Whether you’re looking for a challenging mountain ascent, a peaceful countryside walk, or a scenic coastal adventure, these trails showcase the very best of Britain’s diverse landscapes.
Add these 25 best hiking trails in the UK to your travel bucket list and discover spectacular national parks, historic pathways, dramatic coastlines, and unforgettable mountain views throughout England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
