Misty mountain ridge with two hikers walking on a narrow trail. Low visibility creates an atmospheric, serene landscape.

Our favourite long-distance walks in the UK

The UK offers some of the best multi-day hikes in Europe, with routes covering rugged coastlines, rolling countryside, and remote mountain landscapes. Whether you want a well-marked classic or a more challenging wilderness route, there is something for every level.

We'll break down some of the best long-distance walks in the UK, with key stats, difficulty, and highlights to help you choose the right one.

West Highland Way, Scotland

A scenic view of a rocky stream winding through a lush green valley under a clear blue sky with clouds.

South West Coast Path, England

Hiker with a dog walks along a coastal path with grassy hills to the left and a wide ocean view under a partly cloudy sky.

"It can be windy in sections even when the weather is good, just from being coastal, so having a light and thin layer like a windproof jacket is really nice. While there are lots of cafes and towns on the route, having a water filter can also be helpful. There are lots of open sections, but also narrow bits that tend to end up muddy with even the slightest bit of rain, so take good boots." - Charlie, Events and Partnerships Coordinator

"My personal highlights include the peaceful, varied stretch past Coverack; the historically rich, raw beauty from Porthtowan to Perranporth via St Agnes; and North Cornwall, with its dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation and wild ponies. Beyond Cornwall, the Exmoor coastline is a spectacular and often forgotten gem, easily rivalling its more famous moorland. I've spent countless hours racing and exploring this phenomenal section of the SWCP." - Jodie Gauld, ultra runner and one of our ambassadors

Pennine Way, England

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Ulster Way, Northern Ireland

Rocky coastline with calm sea under a cloudy sky, scattered rocks leading to the water's edge and distant land on the horizon.

Hadrian’s Wall Path, England

Person hiking on a grassy hilltop path with a stone wall, under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.

The Taith Cambria (Cambrian Way), Wales

Mountain landscape with two serene lakes, green valleys, and dramatic clouds casting shadows over the scene.

Offa’s Dyke Path, Wales/England

A winding river flows through lush, forested hills and green fields under a cloudy sky, capturing a serene landscape.

Coast to Coast Walk, England

Boats resting on a rocky shore in front of colourful hillside cottages, surrounded by lush greenery and a small winding stream.
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About the contributors

Image of Kerry, Digital Marketing Manager

Kerry, Digital Marketing Manager

I have always loved being outside and since I began working in the outdoor industry as a teenager I have been trying to find as many excuses to get out in the mountains as possible. Fortunately, working at Ellis Brigham has given me plenty of opportunity to escape the office and test some awesome gear, from trail running shoes to belay devices. Most of the time I can be found kicking around on my local fells in the Lakes, but I am lucky enough to have climbed and skied in some amazing places over the years, including Morocco, Norway and the Alps.

Image of Charlie, Events & Partnerships Coordinator

Charlie, Events & Partnerships Coordinator

Trail running is my way to push limits. Racing the UK’s toughest ultras like Lakeland 100 and Wild Horse 200. Whilst I enjoy the challenge of longer runs, I also get competitive in shorter distances.

Read more

Image of Easy Walks in Eryri (Snowdonia)

Easy Walks in Eryri (Snowdonia)

These routes have varied, but not difficult terrain for an engaging walk without being too challenging.

Image of Quiet Walks in the Lake District

Quiet Walks in the Lake District

The walks in this list will direct you away from the crowds leaving you to enjoy the scenery and tranquillity.

Image of The Best Autumn Walking & Hiking Routes

The Best Autumn Walking & Hiking Routes

From coastal paths to upland loops, these are the walks they keep coming back to once the temperatures drop.

Image of The Best Ridge Walks in the UK

The Best Ridge Walks in the UK

These routes require good boots and a degree of scrambling ability. Some demand more confidence and a head for heights than others.