After having completed the challenging Salkantay Trek in Peru, embarked on the expedition to the Lost City in Colombia’s dense jungle, and undertook the month-long odyssey of the Camino de Santiago across Spain, it’s high time to chart the course for my next ambitious long-distance hiking journey. This year, my trusty Camino companion, Kate, and I are gearing up for one of England’s most exceptional long-distance hiking adventures. The only remaining tasks are to meticulously fill our backpacks with essential hiking gear, secure our feet within our sturdy walking boots, and, perhaps most crucial of all, decide upon the specific hiking trail to explore.
As I delved into the planning process for this upcoming adventure, I was astounded by the wealth of fantastic hiking routes that England has to offer. After a comprehensive research phase, I have thoughtfully curated a list of the top five long-distance hiking trails in England, aimed at providing you with ample inspiration for your own hiking escapades across the picturesque landscapes of the United Kingdom. This carefully selected list accommodates a wide range of preferences and abilities, encompassing options such as brief five-day hikes for those seeking a shorter respite, as well as epic eight-week treks for the truly adventurous. The routes traverse diverse terrains, ranging from serene coastal walks to immersive experiences in charming villages amidst some of England’s most awe-inspiring natural settings.
Coast to Coast Expedition
Location: Northern England – Spanning from Cumbria to North Yorkshire
Distance: 309 kilometers/192 miles
Duration: 15 days (without any designated rest days)
Anticipations: Your journey commences on the western shores of the Irish Sea in St Bees, and concludes on the eastern coast at Robin Hood’s Bay on the North Sea. The prevailing choice for this hike is from west to east, for this orientation has nature’s elements – wind and rain – at your back, and you won’t be walking against the radiant evening sun.
Key Features: This trail gracefully traverses three awe-inspiring national parks: the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, and the North York Moors. During your expedition, you’ll meander through quaint villages adorned with welcoming pubs, ascend the heather-clad uplands of North Yorkshire’s wilderness, explore medieval castles and monasteries, revel in the breathtaking vistas of the Lake District, and accumulate a trove of unforgettable landscapes. It’s undoubtedly one of England’s most iconic long-distance hiking journeys.
Difficulty Level: This is a challenging trek, featuring numerous hills and mountains. It necessitates seasoned hiking experience and robust physical condition.
Commencement and Culmination:
The Coast to Coast Walk embarks from the picturesque village of St Bees, a coastal gem located on the west coast of England. St Bees is renowned for its striking red sandstone buildings and the ancient St Bees Priory, an architectural marvel dating back to Norman times. As you take your first step on this epic journey, the sweeping views of the Irish Sea greet you with the promise of a coastal-to-coastal adventure.
The journey reaches its poetic conclusion at the captivating Robin Hood’s Bay on the east coast. This quintessential fishing village is nestled in a sheltered bay, characterized by its labyrinthine alleyways that wind their way down to the sea. It’s an ideal setting for reflection upon your achievement and basking in the coastal allure of the North Sea.
Diverse Terrain and Conditions:
The Coast to Coast Walk is a symphony of ever-changing terrain, composing a rich tapestry of landscapes. You’ll traverse along rugged coastal paths offering dramatic sea vistas, ascend rolling hills with pastoral beauty, and ascend challenging mountainous regions where the air is thin and the views are boundless. This diversity ensures that every day unfolds as a fresh and captivating chapter of your journey. While some sections of the trail are well-marked and signposted, others may require map-reading skills and navigation, enhancing the adventure’s sense of exploration.
Cultural and Historical Riches:
This hike isn’t just a communion with nature; it’s also a voyage through the annals of history and culture. The trail wends its way past or in proximity to a wealth of historic sites. As you journey through the Lake District, you’ll tread in the footsteps of ancient Romans on their well-preserved roads. In the Yorkshire Dales, the magnificent Rievaulx Abbey awaits—a 12th-century Cistercian monastery showcasing the zenith of medieval architectural brilliance, beckoning history enthusiasts to explore its timeless beauty.
Charming Villages and Rest Stops:
The Coast to Coast Walk introduces you to a series of charming villages and towns, each a unique outpost on your journey. These settlements offer more than just a place to rest; they offer a warm and authentic welcome. Traditional inns and friendly pubs provide not only sustenance but also a chance to converse with locals and fellow trekkers. Some of the popular stopover points include Grasmere in the Lake District and Richmond in North Yorkshire.
Challenges and Preparation:
Without a doubt, this is a challenging hike, best suited for experienced trekkers who are physically prepared. The diverse terrain and the daily distances covered demand a high level of readiness. Prior experience in long-distance hiking is crucial. Carrying the right gear, including waterproof clothing, comfortable and well-worn hiking boots, and a reliable backpack, is essential to ensure your comfort and safety.
Weather Resilience:
Northern England’s weather is known for its variability, so it’s essential to be equipped for all scenarios. Rain, wind, and ever-changing weather patterns are common occurrences. Packing high-quality waterproof gear and layers is fundamental to navigate these fluctuating conditions and maintain your comfort.
Rich Rewards and Indelible Experiences:
Completing the Coast to Coast Walk is more than just a physical accomplishment; it’s a transformational journey. It immerses you in the natural beauty, history, and culture of northern England. Along the way, you’ll craft lasting memories, forge connections with fellow hikers, and develop an enduring appreciation for the landscapes and heritage of this remarkable region.
The Coast to Coast Walk is a multifaceted adventure that weaves the splendors of nature, historical richness, and cultural immersion into a singular tapestry. It’s a life-changing journey for those who seek an authentic hiking challenge and a profound connection with the landscapes and heritage of northern England.
Cotswold Way – Route 2
Location: Situated in the heart of central and southern England, the Cotswold Way extends from Gloucestershire to Somerset.
Distance: This picturesque trail spans a distance of 164 kilometers, equivalent to 102 miles of the English countryside’s finest.
Duration: The Cotswold Way typically unfolds over a leisurely 5 to 7 days, allowing hikers to savor the landscapes and cultural treasures at their own pace.
Anticipated Experiences: The Cotswold Way is hailed as one of England’s most resplendent and culturally rich trails, inviting intrepid explorers to partake in a captivating journey that seamlessly weaves together history and the sublime beauty of nature. As you tread this path, you’ll find yourself immersed in an enchanting world of charming villages, each adorned with centuries-old honey-colored stone cottages and traditional English pubs that exude warmth and hospitality.
The trail gently guides you through the iconic “rolling hills” of the Cotswolds, where limestone grasslands and undulating landscapes reign supreme. This region is renowned for its pastoral beauty and tranquility. It’s not uncommon to encounter cows and sheep grazing in the lush meadows as you traverse the countryside.
Key Highlights: Every village graced by your presence along the Cotswold Way is a living testament to the region’s captivating beauty. The Cotswolds have rightfully earned their esteemed status as an “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty,” and with each step, you’ll bear witness to the wisdom of this recognition. The trail also offers moments of historical immersion, including the opportunity to explore the elegant 15th-century Sudeley Castle, an estate steeped in history with resplendent gardens.
For moments of respite and cultural exploration, the region’s charming tearooms beckon, and local shops welcome your perusal. The journey offers countless viewpoints, each unveiling breathtaking panoramic vistas of the rolling green hills that stretch into the horizon as far as the eye can see.
Your expedition culminates in the magnificent city of Bath, celebrated for its remarkable 18th-century Georgian architecture and, of course, the world-famous Roman Baths. Whether you choose to embark or conclude your hike in Bath, a visit to the rejuvenating waters of Bath’s renowned Roman Baths is a fitting and highly recommended conclusion to your adventure.
Difficulty Level: The Cotswold Way presents a moderate level of challenge, offering accessibility to hikers of varying experience levels. It is an ideal choice for those who may be new to long-distance hiking yet seek a rewarding and immersive journey through the captivating landscapes and cultural treasures of the Cotswolds.
The Pennine Way – A Grand English and Scottish Odyssey
Location: This formidable trail commences in the northern reaches of England, specifically Derbyshire, and takes you on a magnificent journey through England and Scotland.
Distance: The Pennine Way covers a staggering distance of 431 kilometers, equivalent to a challenging 268 miles of diverse and rugged landscapes.
Duration: An epic Pennine Way trek typically spans a duration of 21 days. This extended timeframe allows you to fully immerse yourself in the various landscapes and conquer the formidable challenges that this trail presents.
Anticipated Experiences: The Pennine Way, often affectionately referred to as “the backbone of England,” beckons intrepid explorers to embark on a remarkable journey through some of the most remote and rugged terrains in the United Kingdom. It’s renowned as one of the most demanding long-distance hiking routes in the country, making it an adventure for those with unwavering determination and tenacity. Yet, it is equally celebrated as one of England’s most prestigious long-distance hikes. Your journey commences in the renowned Yorkshire Dales, where each day brings forth a dramatically different landscape. As you trek through this dynamic region, you’ll traverse rolling hills, navigate moorlands, cross marshes, meander through wildflower meadows, stroll across farmlands, and gaze upon untamed vistas. The predominantly unspoiled nature of the route demands meticulous planning, with accommodations and dining options along the Pennine Way highlighted by The Guardian as invaluable resources.
Key Highlights: Completing the Pennine Way is an extraordinary feat in its own right. It involves surmounting 432 stiles, navigating 287 gates, and crossing 204 bridges. Beyond this monumental accomplishment, the journey rewards you with awe-inspiring panoramic views from elevated vantage points. These viewpoints offer glimpses of some of the UK’s most exquisite and untouched landscapes. En route, you’ll encounter the iconic Hadrian’s Wall, a Roman fortification steeped in history that provides a fascinating glimpse into ancient times. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to visit England’s highest pub, adding a unique and memorable touch of character to your expedition.
Difficulty: The Pennine Way stands as a highly challenging hiking expedition, necessitating participants to possess prior experience in long-distance trekking and to be in peak physical condition. Due to the often rugged and remote nature of the trail, comprehensive planning and preparation are paramount to ensure your safety and the successful completion of this remarkable adventure that straddles both England and Scotland.
Dales Way – A Tranquil Journey Through Northern England
Location: This enchanting trail unfolds in the northern regions of England, specifically stretching from West Yorkshire to Cumbria.
Distance: The Dales Way covers a picturesque span of 125 kilometers, equivalent to 81 miles of breathtaking English countryside.
Duration: A typical expedition along the Dales Way invites you to savor the experience at a leisurely pace over 5 to 6 days, ensuring an immersive and unhurried journey.
Anticipated Experiences: The Dales Way is a well-defined and well-marked hiking trail that predominantly follows the meandering river valleys, guides you through charming farms, and leads you across lush, emerald-green fields. Ultimately, it leads you to the picturesque foothills of the Lake District. Along this delightful journey, you’ll traverse two exceptional national parks: the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District National Park.
Key Highlights: The Yorkshire Dales National Park stands as a testament to some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in all of England. Here, you’ll find vast moorlands, meandering river valleys, rolling hills adorned with lush greenery, tranquil pastoral fields where cows and sheep graze, and ancient stone villages steeped in centuries of history. Each step along the way reveals a postcard-worthy view, and the welcoming rural communities provide a glimpse into the heart of authentic English countryside life.
Difficulty Level: The Dales Way offers a moderate level of challenge, ensuring accessibility for hikers with varying levels of experience. Even those newer to long-distance hiking can successfully complete this trail, provided they are well-prepared and equipped for an enjoyable adventure through the splendid landscapes of northern England.
South West Coast Path – An Epic Coastal Odyssey
Location: Embarking from the southwestern realms of England, specifically spanning through Dorset, Cornwall, Somerset, and Devon.
Distance: The South West Coast Path extends across a staggering 1,014 kilometers, equivalent to 630 miles of captivating coastal landscapes.
Duration: Embarking on this grand adventure generally encompasses approximately 8 weeks of uninterrupted exploration.
Anticipated Experiences: If you find that the previously mentioned hiking trails don’t quite satisfy your appetite for adventure, the South West Coast Path is the perfect journey for you. This trail unfurls along the entirety of the coastline in Cornwall and Devon, as well as parts of Dorset and Somerset. Stretching over 1,000 kilometers, it dwarfs even the famous Camino de Santiago. Not only is it the longest hiking route in the United Kingdom, but it is also frequently ranked as one of the best hiking routes worldwide. While the coastal vistas along this trail are absolutely breathtaking, be prepared for many undulating sections, featuring steep ascents and descents. If the length of the hike seems daunting, take note that many hikers complete it over several years.
Key Highlights: Along your journey, you’ll pass through two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Jurassic Coast, composed of Dorset and East Devon’s coastline, and a segment of the mining landscape in Cornwall and West Devon. You’ll also have the opportunity to wander along the heritage coast of Exmoor National Park, with its stunning coastlines, dramatic cliffs, including the tallest cliffs on mainland Britain. As you hike, you’ll traverse dozens of pristine beaches, explore historic castles, visit charming coastal towns and villages, and reach the iconic Land’s End, marking the westernmost point of mainland Britain.
Difficulty Level: Considerably challenging—not only due to its length but also because the total elevation gain for this hike is 114,931 feet (35,031 meters), nearly four times the height of Mount Everest! Completing this hike requires extensive experience as a long-distance hiker and the possession of ample hiking equipment.
