Top 5 Countryside Walks in the UK to Do in 2025
A Walking Guide for 2025
In a world increasingly drawn to digital escapes, the allure of the British countryside remains as captivating as ever. From rolling hills to dramatic coastlines, the UK offers an array of breathtaking walks that promise not just physical exercise but also spiritual renewal. In 2025, these top five countryside walks should top your list—a harmonious blend of scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventure.
5. The Peak District: Kinder Scout and the Pennine Way
The Birthplace of Britain’s Right-to-Roam Movement
The Peak District offers a mix of challenging terrain and pastoral tranquility. The walk to Kinder Scout, the highest point in the region, is a must. Starting from Edale, the circular route spans approximately 8 miles and takes in breathtaking views of the Derbyshire moors and the striking Kinder Downfall, a waterfall that’s particularly dramatic after heavy rains.
The Peak District also serves as the gateway to the Pennine Way, Britain’s first National Trail. Even a short segment of this 268-mile route provides a taste of the rugged beauty that defines northern England.
Why It’s Perfect for 2025
In 2025, the Peak District will celebrate 90 years since the Kinder Scout Mass Trespass, a pivotal moment in UK outdoor access history. The anniversary promises special events and guided walks, making it a unique time to connect with the trail’s historical significance.
4. The Scottish Highlands: The West Highland Way
A Journey into the Wild
For a dramatic escape, the West Highland Way offers an unparalleled journey through the Scottish Highlands. This 96-mile trail runs from Milngavie, near Glasgow, to Fort William, threading through glens, lochs, and mountains. If tackling the entire route seems daunting, the section between Bridge of Orchy and Glencoe (approximately 12 miles) is a highlight.
This stretch includes the hauntingly beautiful Rannoch Moor, a vast wilderness that feels otherworldly, and ends in the striking Glencoe valley, steeped in history and folklore. Every step is imbued with a sense of grandeur and solitude, making it a profoundly moving experience.
Why It’s Perfect for 2025
The West Highland Way has seen improved infrastructure, with waymarked paths and enhanced shelters along the route. With the growing popularity of Scotland’s rewilding projects, the area promises sightings of thriving wildlife, including red deer and golden eagles, making 2025 an ideal time to visit.
3. The Cotswolds: Cotswold Way
Idyllic Villages and Rolling Hills
The Cotswold Way, a 102-mile National Trail, is quintessentially English. Stretching from Chipping Campden to Bath, it traverses golden-stone villages, undulating hills, and historic landmarks. For those pressed for time, the 10-mile stretch between Broadway and Winchcombe offers a delightful microcosm of the trail’s charms.
Start at Broadway Tower, a striking folly perched atop Beacon Hill, before descending through beech woodlands to the medieval Sudeley Castle. The gentle gradients and immaculate countryside make this walk accessible to most fitness levels, while the picturesque surroundings feel straight out of a Jane Austen novel.
Why It’s Perfect for 2025
With 2025 marking the Cotswolds’ heightened efforts toward eco-tourism, expect improved walking amenities, eco-friendly accommodations, and farm-to-table dining options in local pubs and eateries. It’s an opportunity to indulge in sustainable travel while exploring an iconic region.
2. The South West Coast Path: St. Ives to Zennor
Rugged Coastlines and Seaside Charm
The South West Coast Path is a marathon of seaside magnificence, stretching 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset. While tackling the entire route is a Herculean task, the St. Ives to Zennor section is a manageable 6-mile stretch that encapsulates the path’s rugged charm.
This walk begins in the artistic haven of St. Ives, winding through clifftop paths with sweeping views of the Atlantic. The route is dotted with ancient mining relics, secluded coves, and wildflowers in abundance. Zennor itself, a quaint village with its legendary Mermaid Chair in the church, is a fitting reward at the end of the hike.
Why It’s Perfect for 2025
With climate change affecting coastal areas, 2025 might be the best year to explore this dynamic landscape before further erosions alter its character. Organizations like the National Trust are actively preserving key sections of the trail, ensuring its longevity.
1. The Lake District: Scafell Pike and Beyond
A Walk Through England’s Crown Jewel
The Lake District, an UNESCO World Heritage Site, has long been synonymous with poetic inspiration and natural splendor. Among its myriad trails, the ascent to Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak, is a rite of passage for walking enthusiasts. Starting from the charming village of Wasdale Head, this 6-hour trek offers panoramic views that stretch as far as the Irish Sea on a clear day.
Beyond Scafell Pike, consider venturing along the Helvellyn ridge, celebrated for its dramatic peaks and serene tarns. Striding Edge, a knife-edged arête, adds a thrilling element to the hike, making it ideal for experienced walkers.
Why It’s Perfect for 2025
The Lake District has embraced sustainability initiatives to protect its fragile ecosystems. Many routes now include designated "restoration zones" where visitors can participate in conservation activities. This walk lets you immerse yourself in natural beauty while contributing to its preservation.
Walking the UK’s countryside in 2025 offers more than just scenic beauty; it’s a chance to reconnect with nature, history, and oneself. Each trail, whether it’s the poetic allure of the Lake District or the rugged drama of the Scottish Highlands, tells a story that’s as rich as the landscapes themselves. So lace up your boots, grab your map, and let the adventure begin!