The UK's 7 Most Iconic Summer Walks (Ranked by Wow Factor)

Looking for some proper epic inspiration for your next walk? The UK is full of incredible places to explore, and we can guarantee there are a few on this list you haven't even heard of yet. If you love walking and want to try something new, you're in the right place. Here's our round-up of some of the most breathtaking walks in the UK, from dramatic mountain hikes with jaw-dropping views, to charming coastal paths that'll genuinely stop you in your tracks.

And if walking with a group or guided tour is more your style, we've pulled together some of our favourite companies to inspire you too.

1. South West Coast Path

The iconic South West Coast Path stretches 630 miles from Minehead in Somerset, along the coastlines of Exmoor, North Devon and Cornwall, before following the Dorset coast all the way to Poole Harbour, passing the iconic Land's End and Durdle Door.

Many walkers take on the challenge of completing the whole thing, chipping away at it section by section across multiple trips until they've conquered it all. With over 115,000 feet of ascent and descent, the equivalent of scaling Mount Everest four times, it's a serious undertaking. 

But you absolutely don't have to do it all at once. The views throughout are simply breathtaking, making it well worth exploring even if you only want to tackle a small stretch.

UK Activity Breaks recommends: Dartmoor Walking Tours

• Why we love them: Their expert guides offer incredible insight into the geology and history of the South West's most dramatic landscapes.

2. Northumberland: Castles & Coastal Wilderness

Wild, rugged and seriously underrated. Northumberland is one of those places that genuinely surprises people. Imagine walking along white sandy beaches with the silhouette of Bamburgh Castle or the ruins of Dunstanburgh on the horizon. Wide open landscapes, ancient castles on the horizon, making it a walking destination unlike any other.

UK Activity Breaks recommends: Northern Adventures 

• Why we love them: They specialise in getting you off the beaten track. Their local knowledge of the Cheviot Hills and the tidal causeway to Holy Island is second to none.

3. Snowdonia (Eryri): The Roof of Wales

Love mountains and a proper challenge? Then you simply have to get yourself to Snowdonia. This stunning corner of North Wales offers over 1,497 miles of public footpaths suited to all abilities, with dramatic mountain ranges including the iconic ascent of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), tranquil lakes of the Ogwen Valley, cascading waterfalls and sweeping coastal paths all waiting to be explored. It's the kind of place that makes you feel genuinely alive.

UK Activity Breaks recommends: Snowdonia Adventures 

• Why we love them: They make the big peaks accessible even for those who are new to mountain hiking with their "safety first" approach to mountain scrambles.

4. The Lake District: England's Walking Capital

The walking capital of England, and for very good reason. The Lake District delivers that ultimate wow factor that keeps walkers coming back time and time again. The variety is exceptional, from peaceful lakeside strolls to challenging ridge walks with views that genuinely take your breath away. From the iconic ridge of Striding Edge on Helvellyn to the gentle, reflective waters of Buttermere. If there's one place every walker in the UK should have at the top of their list, it's this one.

UK Activity Breaks recommends: Muddy Boots Walking Holidays

• Why we love them: They are the kings of the "self-guided" experience - they arrange everything from accommodation to luggage transfers, so you only have to focus on the view.
• Insider Tip: Try the walk up Catbells for the best "effort-to-reward" ratio in the park.

5. The Yorkshire Dales: Limestone & Waterfalls

We couldn't write a walking guide without including the Yorkshire Dales. It can be wild and windswept or quietly tranquil, with valleys full of hay meadows, dry stone walls and ancient barns, and spectacular waterfalls contrasting with the scattered remains of rural industries. 

For the more adventurous, the famous Yorkshire Three Peaks of Whernside, Ingleborough and Pen-y-Ghent offer an inspiring 24-mile challenge to walkers from around the world. And for those who'd rather take it easy, there are beautiful riverside trails, limestone pavements and pretty villages to wander through at your own pace. A classic for a reason. The falls at Janet's Foss and Malham Cove are breathtaking.

UK Activity Breaks recommends: Lost Earth Adventures

• Why we love them: They bring an element of "extreme" to the Dales. If you want to combine your walk with a bit of gorge scrambling or climbing, they are the ones to call.

6. Walking & Wine Tasting: The Vineyard Trek

For a sophisticated twist on the traditional hike, head to the rolling hills of East Sussex. This region is now producing world-class English Sparkling Wine. Ever thought about exploring a vineyard on foot, taking in beautiful scenery while sipping on some lovely English sparkling wine? A guided walk through the vines with exclusive tastings along the way sounds pretty ideal, right?

UK Activity Breaks Recommends: Fizz on Foot in East Sussex

• Why we love them: Blend leisurely countryside walking with a vineyard tour and wine tasting of English sparkling wine. It's one of those experiences that sounds almost too good, and then turns out to be even better than expected.

7. City Walking Tours: The Urban Adventure

Bet you didn't see this one coming. City walking tours are a brilliant way to discover somewhere new, uncovering hidden corners, stunning street art and those little gems that only locals know about. Our current favourite is the Bristol City Walking Tour, featuring a Street Art Tour and Banksy trail that is absolutely worth your time.

UK Activity Breaks Recommends: Blackbeard to Banksy, Bristol Walking Tour

• Why we love them: They blend 17th-century pirate history with 21st-century graffiti. It's fast-paced, fascinating, and reveals sides of the city that most tourists walk right past.

Finding Your Next Walking Adventure

The UK is stunning, and the options for walking are pretty much endless. But if you're heading out solo or as a group and want an expert to show you the way, booking a guided tour is always a great shout. 

Browse all of our Walking & Hiking Experiences here.

The guides know the best routes and will make sure you get the most out of every step. Head to the UK Activity Breaks directory to discover handpicked walking experiences and activity providers from across the country. Your next adventure is waiting.