If you like hiking but are looking for a bigger challenge, look no further than the United Kingdom’s trails. There are several excellent multi-day hikes, covering a range of distances and terrains, which will suit any keen hiker. Below we have a few of the best hikes, most of which can be split into smaller sections for excellent day or weekend trips.
Hadrian’s Wall Path, Northumberland and Cumbria
Distance: 84 miles
Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was built between AD122 and AD128 to separate the Romans from the barbarians. The Hadrian’s Wall Path runs the length of the wall, passing forts and ancient settlements as well as offering spectacular views of Northumberland.
Most of the hiking trail is flat, but the hills offer beautiful views of the surrounding settlements. The official trail runs from Wallsend to Bowness-on-Solway and experienced hikers can expect to complete the trail in five to ten days.
South West Coast Path
Distance: 630 miles
The South West Coast Path is the longest and one of the best UK hikes in the country and is home to some of the most beautiful secluded beaches of the country. The trail starts from Minehead, Somerset, follows the coastline through Devon and Cornwall before ending at Poole Harbor, Dorset.
The trail can be done in any combination of day trips, week long sections or even all at once. The difficulty of the hikes vary depending on the section, with some parts being considered particularly strenuous. Expect to see stunning beaches, rugged coastline, hidden churches and the occasional seal or dolphin.
Coast to Coast Path
Distance: 192 miles
The coast to coast hiking path starts from St Bees Head on the Irish Sea, passes through Lake District, North York Moors, Yorkshire Dales, and ends at Robin Hood’s Bay. It covers three of the country’s best national parks; the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales National Park, and North York National Park, in just one hike. This means the views are spectacular!
The hiking trail is diverse, comprising rocky formations, rolling hillsides, limestone plateaus, and country lanes. If walking the whole trail it takes around two weeks, however there are shorter treks that can be completed within a week or less.
West Highland Way, Glasgow to the Highlands
Distance: 96 miles
The West Highland Way, running from Glasgow to the Highlands, is one of the best UK hikes and is a perfect choice for a week-long hiking trip. The trail runs from Milngavie just outside Glasgow to Fort William. It encompasses the Loch Lomond, Rannoch moors and the Highlands, finishing with magnificent views of Ben Nevis.
While the hike starts relatively easily, the terrain gets increasingly more rugged as the hike moves from south to north. The views of the lush green countryside parks, open moorlands, steep mountains, and loch-shores add to the beauty of the trail, making it one not to miss.
These are just a few of the best multi-day hikes in the UK, ready to reward any hiker with a once in a lifetime experience.
