The UK is renowned for its exceptional national trails, coastal paths and countryside walks that are particularly picturesque in the winter months. While the blooms of spring, the lushness of summer and the vibrant hues of autumn may have faded, an early start in winter rewards with mist rising from the lochs, valleys and forests. Indeed, winter is a fantastic season for a UK holiday. Winter is a prime time to venture out and discover the natural world, and you’ll reap the benefits of absorbing the gentle sunshine during the shorter days as well. The UK boasts a plethora of winter walking routes for your exploration, whether you’re after invigorating winter hikes to get your heart racing or more leisurely winter strolls where you can take your time and truly savour the landscape.
Uncover some of the most stunning spots to visit in the UK during winter, as compiled by holidaycottages.com.
Best winter walks in England
Heddon Valley, North Devon
Heddon Valley, nestled on the coast of North Devon and backed by Exmoor National Park, offers a breathtaking walk that’s one of our top picks for winter strolls in England. The route takes you through a diverse landscape, from a wooded valley to a rocky beach, all while breathing in the crisp, fresh air. The National Trust even provides ‘tramper’ mobility scooters for hire, and the footpath down to Heddon’s Mouth is well-maintained for trampers and pushchairs. After your exploration, stop by the local pub, The Hunters Inn, for a warm pub lunch.
Distance: 2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Two Bridges to Wistman’s Wood, Dartmoor
For those looking to delve into the mysterious Dartmoor landscape, the circular footpath from Two Bridges to Wistman’s Wood is a truly magical choice for winter walks in the UK. The route, which passes over farmsteads and open moorland, leads you to the mystical oaks of Wistman’s Wood. Even on a bleak winter’s day, this twisting woodland feels like it’s straight out of a fairy tale.
Distance: 10 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Corfe Castle, Dorset
This stunning walk to Corfe Castle, one of the UK’s most snapped sites, is a perfect winter stroll. If you’re an early bird, catch the mist hovering over the ruins and a gorgeous sunrise. For a longer trek, walk from Corfe Castle Square all the way to Kimmeridge Bay on the South West Coast Path. Check out our guide for more fantastic walks in Dorset.
Distance: Variable – 1.5 or 5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Worcestershire Beacon, Malvern Hills
The view from the top of Worcestershire Beacon is definitely worth the hike. This 4.5-mile trek through the Malvern Hills is a picturesque winter walking route, with expansive views over the Severn Valley. Start your journey at the Upper Wyche village and climb 425 metres to enjoy the most breathtaking views. It’s truly one of the most scenic walks in Worcestershire.
Distance: 4.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Blakeney Freshes, Norfolk
Located on the North Norfolk Coast Path, this wild winter walk stretches across Blakeney Freshes Reserve. On a chilly morning, catch the mist rising from the marshes and look out for flocks of golden plovers and other resident birdlife.
The perfect family-friendly winter walk. From Blakeney, you can also take a lovely walk to Cley next to the Sea, via the Norfolk Coast Path and take in iconic sights such as Cley’s fabulous windmill.
Distance: 3 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Bakewell to Chatsworth, Peak District
This delightful trail is one of the top winter walks in the Peak District. Starting in Bakewell, you’ll follow the Monsal Trail and wander through the charming village of Edensor, finishing at the magnificent Chatsworth House.
With two lengths available, you can select the path that suits you best and reward yourself with tea and cake in Edensor, or perhaps take a tour of Chatsworth itself.
Distance: 6 or 8 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Fountains Abbey, Yorkshire
When it comes to prime Yorkshire walks in the winter, the 5-mile stroll at Fountains Abbey is truly stunning. Leading you through a medieval deer park, home to wild red, fallow and sika deer, the circular route passes the 18th-century Studley Royal Water Garden and offers fantastic views over Ripon and the enigmatic North York Moors. As one of the most visited destinations in the UK, Yorkshire has plenty to offer all year round; check out our guide to winter days for more inspiration.
Distance: 5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Walla Crag to Ashness Bridge, Cumbria
Walla Crag to Ashness Bridge in Cumbria is a must-visit. This route, which passes over the stunning Derwentwater lake – often referred to as the jewel of the Lake District – offers some of the region’s most breathtaking views. Make sure to stop at Ashness Bridge, with Skiddaw Mountain as its backdrop, it’s one of the most photographed spots in the Lake District. No matter the season, you’re guaranteed a spectacular view.
If you’re planning a trip to the Lake District and have your walking boots ready, don’t forget to check out our guide to the best walks in the Lake District.
Distance: 4.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Beatrix Potter Walk, Lake District
For literature lovers, the Beatrix Potter Walk in the Lake District is a winter walk not to be missed. The trail covers numerous sites linked to the famous author, including her home, the wooded fells of Claife Heights and the western shore of Lake Windermere.
It’s an ideal way to warm up while soaking in the sights and sounds of the Lake District.
Distance: 13 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Tintern Abbey and Devil’s Pulpit, Wye Valley
The breathtaking ruins of the 12th-century Cistercian abbey are a marvel to witness in every season but come winter, they take on an ethereal beauty. On a frosty morning, with the mist hovering over the River Wye, this route allows you to appreciate the abbey ruins in all their glory and is one of the most memorable winter walks.
Don’t forget to pause at the Devil’s Pulpit, which offers stunning views of the abbey and Wye Valley.
Distance: 7.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Best winter walks in Wales
Crickhowell to Table Mountain, Brecon Beacons/Bannau Brycheiniog
This fantastic winter walk in the Brecon Beacons is well worth the effort for the awe-inspiring views when you reach the summit. From Crickhowell, you’ll follow a tree-lined path beside Cumbeth Brook, leading out onto an open hillside.
The 380-metre ascent guarantees breathtaking scenery as you gaze down on the town and across the Usk Valley. Take some time to explore the remains of the Iron Age hillfort – Crug Hywel – which gave Crickhowell its name.
Distance: 4.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Pen y Fan, Brecon Beacons
Pen y Fan in the Brecon Beacons is a favourite among walkers and hikers in Wales, drawing crowds throughout the year. With a variety of routes to choose from, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re after a leisurely 4-mile stroll or a challenging 10-mile trek.
Distance: Variable
Difficulty: Easy to challenging
Cwm Idwal, Snowdonia/Eryri National Park
Cwm Idwal in Snowdonia/Eryri National Park is another gem for walkers. This glacial valley offers a glimpse into the geological past, making it a popular spot not just for walkers and climbers, but scientists too – including Charles Darwin. There are two routes available, catering to different levels of walking experience.
Distance: 3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Clytha Estate, Monmouthshire
Clytha Estate in Monmouthshire offers a tranquil circular walk through an 18th-century estate. The serene landscape and views of the Usk Valley and Clytha Park to Clytha Castle are sure to leave you feeling peaceful.
Along the route, you’ll encounter intriguing sights like the remains of St Aeddan’s Chapel (Capel Aedan), founded in 1188 by Aedan of Gwaethfoed.
Distance: 4 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Best winter walks in Scotland
The South Loch Ness Trail, Scottish Highlands
For those hoping to spot Nessie in the winter morning mist, the South Loch Ness Trail in the Scottish Highlands is ideal. Starting just outside Fort Augustus, the trail takes you through years of myth and legend, as well as past beautiful wildlife and woodland.
As the peaceful ‘undiscovered’ side of Loch Ness, this magical trail is perfect for winter walking holidays.
Distance: 28 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Loch Morlich, Cairngorms National Park
High on the list of winter walks in the Cairngorms is a circular walk around Loch Morlich in Cairngorms National Park. Starting from Loch Morlich car park, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the northern Cairngorm mountains as you trek through this winter wonderland.
Distance: Just under 4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Callendar Wood, Falkirk
Falkirk’s Callendar Wood offers a delightful winter walk in Scotland, taking you through ancient woodland that forms part of Callendar Park. The Yew Trail is packed with fascinating sights, including the Forbes family mausoleum overlooking Callendar Loch.
Make it a fun game to identify the various trees in the woods as you amble along the well-kept, broad path. For additional family fun, the park boasts a play area and crazy golf, as well as pedalos.
Distance: 2 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Stac Pollaidh, North Highlands
Stac Pollaidh in the North Highlands provides an absolutely splendid winter walk in Scotland. This circuit around Stac Pollaidh promises stunning views in all directions, including towards the Summer Isles and across the rugged Assynt landscape.
The more daring can attempt the brief but steep ascent to the summit, although this final stage is challenging and should only be attempted by seasoned scramblers.
Distance: Just under 3 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging