With spring blooming into life, the countryside fills with colour, making for the most picturesque views. If you’re itching to clear the cobwebs away with an invigorating spring hike, we’ve rounded up the most scenic hikes across the UK for that hit of fresh air, energetic challenge and breath-taking natural beauty.
So, grab your camera, pack your water bottle and don you ladies waterproof jacket and let’s explore these most scenic hiking spots in the UK.
Most Beautiful UK Hikes
For The Sea: South Downs Way
If you need a hit of Vitamin Sea, the South Downs Way could be a great choice. The whole route is around 100 miles, but if you want to take on a stretch of it, we recommend the Seven Sisters section from Eastbourne to Seaford. This stretch takes you up and down the beautiful chalk cliffs, past stunning sights such as Belle Tout Lighthouse on Beachy Head and the meander of Cuckmere Haven. It is 14 miles in length, so it’s a good day walk with a few cafes and country pubs to stop off on your route.
For The Mountains: Scafell And Helvellyn, Lake District
For some rugged cliff faces and far-reaching views of the Lake District, Scafell and Helvellyn are challenging hikes but offer truly unrivalled views as you climb the highest mountain in England. If you’re looking for a weekend hiking break, you can do a mountain each day.
Both hikes give you an immense sense of achievement while also providing stunning views of serene lakes – perfect when stopping to get your breath back!
For History: Hadrian’s Wall
Spanning across Northumberland to Cumbria, Hadrian’s Wall Path stretches 84 miles, and there are lots of walks to take depending on the time you have available. The 8-mile Fort-to-Fort route is fantastic for taking in a slice of Roman history; see the reconstructed Arbeia, the old fish quays, Tynemouth Priory and the old bathhouse at Segedunum Roman Fort.
There’s also a beautiful River Tyne route perfect for a Sunday morning stroll. Start in Wylam, perhaps visiting National Trust George Stephenson’s Cottage and meander along the river over the attractive Hagg Bank Bridge until you reach Prudhoe. Here’s a great place to stop for refreshments and a chance to take in the sights of Prudhoe Castle.
For Sweeping Views: Happisburgh, Norfolk
Norfolk Coastal Path offers plenty of gorgeous scenery to enjoy for those looking for long hikes without steep inclines. Thanks to the lush fields and the iconic red-and-white-striped lighthouse, Happisburgh circular walk is a fantastic photo opportunity. The seven-mile walk combines quintessential English farmland views, coastal stretches and can even end with a dip in the sea too! You can also book a tour to climb to the very top of the Happisburgh lighthouse for even better views.
So, with a choice of locations and scenery to enjoy – pack the right clothing for the day (view our range of lightweight waterproof coats for women here: www.protected-species.com and tell us where your hiking happy place is!