The Best Autumn Walking & Hiking Routes

Introduction

Autumn brings a quieter kind of hiking—cooler days, fewer crowds, and landscapes shifting into new colours. We asked a few members of our team to share their go-to routes for this time of year. From coastal paths to upland loops, these are the walks they keep coming back to once the temperatures drop.

Andy, Social Media Executive

Kentmere Horseshoe – 19km, 7 hours

The route packs in over 1000m of ascent over around 19km, so allow plenty of time (at least 5 hours) and always bring a headtorch. The initial ascent up to Yoke (707m) and Ill Bell (757m) is demanding but very quickly brings breathtaking views. The rest of the walk is undulating, taking in further summits of Froswick (720m) and Thornthwaite Crag (784) before turning right to follow the edge of the horseshoe to Mardale (760m). To extend the hike, you can also take in High Street (828m). In poor visibility, the section between Thornthwaite and Mardale can be tricky, so be sure to bring a map and compass.

A gradual descent brings you back into the Kentmere valley.

Tom, Email Executive

Old Glossop to Bleaklow – 14km, 3-4 hours

Descending slightly from Cock Hill, you’ll meet the Pennine Way. Turn right onto the stone path, keeping a steep drop to your left. This is fairly well protected, but take extra care in wet and windy conditions. Stay on the Pennine Way, crossing over Torside Clough and winding through the varied moorland landscape up to Bleaklow Head.

Continuing on the footpath will take you past the crash site of a US Air Force bomber. This is an interesting, if a little eerie, area to explore, and good views can be had. When walking in the winter, this was the first place I encountered other people.

After the crash site, the climbing is finished and the remainder of the loop is mostly descent through peat moors, then farm tracks and finally back to your car.

Post walk pub options are aplenty in the area, but I head back into Glossop for local beer and (surprisingly) vegan food at The Globe.

Esme, SEO Executive

Padley Gorge Circular 9.3km, 2.5-3 hours

Kerry, Digital Marketing Manager

Fairfield via St Sunday Crag 13.4km, 3-4 hours

The summit plateau tends to catch the wind, regardless of which direction it’s blowing from, so extra layers are a must, even if it is calm on the valley floor. The wild nature of this route and exposure to the elements is what makes this one of my favourite autumnal walks. You are guaranteed to feel windswept and extra appreciative of a warm cup of tea when you get back home.

From the summit at Fairfield, make your way across to Hart Crag (823m), before descending along the rib to Hartsop and the valley below.