Best UK Hiking Trips for Beginners

With the New Year over, it’s the perfect time of year to feel inspired and to get exploring. And what better way to do it than on foot! We have selected a range of trails across the UK which vary in length and terrain, but are all simple enough for those just starting out to try! A few of our walks are made up from longer walks but can be experienced in smaller doses to be enjoyed by newer walkers. Not only does our selection encompass some stunning locations, all the routes included are clearly marked and easy enough to follow! If you would like to explore some more locations this season, take a look at our blog on Beautiful Places to Visit in the UK this Winter.

Hadrian’s Wall Path National Trail - Northumberland to Cumbria

The full length of this walk is 84 miles in length and reaches across the north of Britain from the East coast to the West. Taking roughly a week to complete, it is understandable that doing the entirety of this classic walk may not be possible. However, there are plenty of smaller, circular routes that you can complete along the wall which provide beautiful views of Britain’s most historic countryside filled with Roman settlements throughout. Ideally, for those who do not fancy clambering around, avoiding the 23 mile stretch between Birdoswald and Chollerford is recommended. Other than this, the route along the wall is pathed with grass and the trail can be easily followed by acorn or arrow symbols throughout.

Seven Sisters - East Sussex

A striking site of natural beauty in England, the stunning white chalk cliffs, named the Seven Sisters, is a beautiful section of English coastline which makes for an incredible walk. The cliffs are nestled amongst the South Downs National Park and are reknown for their captivating look. The coastal trail is around 13 miles in length and is known to be fairly easy but not necessarily flat. If you want to complete the entire walk, the duration is around seven hours in length.

The Rollright Stones - Oxfordshire

This historical walk is a lovely route which is around three miles in length, starting in Chipping Norton. It follows along the border of Oxfordshire and Warwickshire and passes through some intriguing monuments dating back to the Bronze Age and Neolithic era. There are three in total, which are named:
• The King’s Men (stone circle)
• The Whispering Knights (burial chamber)
• The single King Stone

After walking through the picturesque village of Chipping Norton, the path leads onto Shakespeare’s Way which heads into the countryside where you can follow a circular walk exploring the landmarks.

Cotswold Way - The Cotswolds

Another walk that stretches just over 100 miles, this expedition can be completed in part and does not need to be fully completed to be enjoyed at its most. The route explores between Bath and the town of Chipping Campden. Surrounded by some of the most serene and picturesque views of the Cotswold countryside, several shorter walks can be enjoyed in the area. There are signed directions throughout the trail and it easy enough to follow.

Baggy Point - North Devon

For those who love the coast, this is a perfect walk to gaze upon the beautiful Atlantic Sea. The trail stretches from the surf village of Croyde to the beach of Putsborough, where you can grab some hot food and drink at the beach café. If you are feeling particularly adventurous that day, you can follow the three-mile stretch of golden sand which ends at the lovely village of Woolacombe. There is a clear path marked throughout the walk along Baggy Point, the first part a tarmacked surface starting from the beach entrance in Croyde. The trail leads past some stunning houses, and once you get to the Croyde whalebone, you know you are well on your way on Baggy Point. At the end of the point, there is a lookout pole which you can climb to gain a breezy view of the stunning seascape.

Walking is an excellent way to enjoy the beauty of nature. To make sure you start your new form of exercise as comfortable as possible, take a look at our range of lightweight hiking boots which will ensure your feet stay as warm and secure as possible.