Top UK Long-Distance Trails for Serious Hikers
The UK is a paradise for serious hikers, offering a wide range of long-distance trails that wind through some of the most stunning landscapes the country has to offer. From rugged mountain ranges to peaceful countryside, these trails will challenge you, push your limits, and reward you with spectacular views and unforgettable experiences. If you’re up for the adventure, here are some of the best long-distance hiking trails in the UK.
1. The Pennine Way
Length: 268 miles (430 km)
Duration: 16 to 20 days
Location: From Edale (Derbyshire) to Kirk Yetholm (Scotland)
The Pennine Way is one of the UK's most famous long-distance trails and a must-do for any serious hiker. It’s often referred to as the "spine of England," as it runs through the rugged and remote Pennine mountain range. The trail takes you through varied landscapes, from moorlands and rolling hills to remote valleys and charming villages. Along the way, you’ll experience some of the wildest and most beautiful parts of northern England.
Why it’s great for serious hikers: The Pennine Way offers challenging terrain, with steep ascents, exposed ridges, and potentially unpredictable weather. It’s a true test of your hiking abilities.
2. The South West Coast Path
Length: 630 miles (1,014 km)
Duration: 40 to 50 days
Location: From Minehead (Somerset) to Poole (Dorset)
If you want to combine coastal beauty with long-distance hiking, the South West Coast Path is a fantastic choice. The trail stretches from the rugged cliffs of Somerset through Devon and Cornwall, following the stunning coastline all the way to Dorset. The path includes dramatic cliff-top views, secluded coves, and plenty of wildlife. Along the way, you’ll encounter a mix of challenging coastal paths and more leisurely stretches.
Why it’s great for serious hikers: The trail is long and often tough, with steep climbs and descents, as well as exposed sections. It's not just about the beauty – it's about pushing your endurance over a considerable distance.
3. The West Highland Way
Length: 96 miles (154 km)
Duration: 6 to 8 days
Location: From Milngavie (near Glasgow) to Fort William (Scotland)
For hikers looking for dramatic landscapes, the West Highland Way offers a spectacular journey through the Scottish Highlands. Starting just outside Glasgow, the trail travels through glacial valleys, past lochs, and beneath towering mountains, eventually ending at the foot of Ben Nevis, the UK's highest peak. The West Highland Way is a classic Scottish trail, offering an immersive experience in Scotland's wild beauty.
Why it’s great for serious hikers: Although the West Highland Way is shorter than some other long-distance trails, the terrain is challenging, especially when navigating muddy paths, steep hills, and unpredictable weather. It’s a great way to experience the best of Scotland's rugged landscape.
4. The Coast to Coast Walk
Length: 192 miles (309 km)
Duration: 12 to 14 days
Location: From St Bees (Cumbria) to Robin Hood’s Bay (North Yorkshire)
The Coast to Coast Walk is a classic UK long-distance hike created by legendary walker Alfred Wainwright. It takes you across northern England, from the Irish Sea to the North Sea, passing through the Lake District, the Yorkshire Dales, and the North York Moors. The trail offers a diverse range of terrain, from mountain paths and lakeside strolls to vast moors and rolling hills.
Why it’s great for serious hikers: This hike is not an official National Trail (though it’s widely followed), and its route can be demanding. The variety of landscapes and terrain makes it a perfect challenge for experienced hikers looking for a multi-day adventure.
5. The Cape Wrath Trail
Length: 200 miles (322 km)
Duration: 12 to 14 days
Location: From Fort William to Cape Wrath (Scotland)
The Cape Wrath Trail is often considered one of the toughest long-distance hikes in the UK. Starting in Fort William and ending at the remote Cape Wrath in the Scottish Highlands, this trail takes you through some of Scotland’s wildest and least accessible terrain. You’ll walk through desolate moors, cross rivers, and navigate challenging mountain passes, with few amenities along the way. This trail is for experienced hikers seeking a true adventure.
Why it’s great for serious hikers: The Cape Wrath Trail is often considered one of the most challenging in the UK due to its isolation, rugged terrain, and often unpredictable weather. The sense of remoteness and solitude is both daunting and exhilarating.
6. The Glyndŵr’s Way
Length: 135 miles (217 km)
Duration: 8 to 10 days
Location: From Knighton (Powys) to Welshpool (Powys)
The Glyndŵr’s Way is a beautiful yet lesser-known trail that follows in the footsteps of the Welsh rebel leader, Owen Glyndŵr. The route takes you through the heart of Wales, offering a mix of peaceful forests, open moorland, and scenic valleys. You'll pass through quaint Welsh villages and experience the natural beauty of Mid Wales, including the majestic Cambrian Mountains and the expansive Radnor Forest.
Why it’s great for serious hikers: While it’s not as long or as difficult as some of the other trails, Glyndŵr’s Way still offers plenty of challenges. The remote terrain and varying weather conditions can make it demanding, and it’s perfect for those looking for a more tranquil but still challenging route.
7. The Dales Way
Length: 80 miles (129 km)
Duration: 5 to 7 days
Location: From Ilkley (West Yorkshire) to Bowness-on-Windermere (Lake District)
The Dales Way takes you through the stunning Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, passing through lush valleys, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. This trail offers a more moderate challenge compared to some of the others, but it’s still a beautiful and rewarding walk. The route follows riverside paths, with plenty of places to stop for a break along the way.
Why it’s great for serious hikers: The Dales Way offers a gentler pace compared to other long-distance hikes, but it’s still a great choice for experienced hikers. The mix of valleys, lakes, and countryside provides a peaceful yet challenging journey.
8. The Southern Upland Way
Length: 212 miles (341 km)
Duration: 12 to 14 days
Location: From Portpatrick (Dumfries and Galloway) to Cockburnspath (Scottish Borders)
The Southern Upland Way is Scotland’s first official long-distance route and runs across the southern part of the country. It takes you through wild and remote terrain, with rolling hills, dense forests, and a rugged coastline. The route crosses both highlands and lowlands, offering a real mix of landscapes. The Southern Upland Way is less well-known than some other Scottish trails, making it a great option for hikers looking for an adventure off the beaten track.
Why it’s great for serious hikers: The Southern Upland Way is often underestimated but offers a challenging journey, with long stretches of remote, uninhabited terrain. It’s perfect for experienced hikers looking for solitude and a test of endurance.
9. The Cotswold Way
Length: 102 miles (164 km)
Duration: 7 to 10 days
Location: From Chipping Campden (Gloucestershire) to Bath (Somerset)
The Cotswold Way is a stunning walk that takes you through the picturesque Cotswold Hills, offering beautiful views of rolling countryside, charming stone villages, and historic sites like the Roman Baths in Bath. While the route is not as challenging as some others, it still provides plenty of ups and downs, especially as you pass through the hills.
Why it’s great for serious hikers: The Cotswold Way offers a balance of beautiful views, historical landmarks, and manageable but still challenging walking. It’s ideal for those who want to explore rural England at a slower pace while still tackling a long-distance trail.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to conquer the challenging peaks of the Pennine Way, experience the wild beauty of the Cape Wrath Trail, or explore the serene countryside on the Dales Way, the UK offers some truly unforgettable long-distance hikes for serious hikers. These trails not only test your endurance but also offer an opportunity to connect with some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country. So, grab your gear, prepare for the adventure, and start ticking off these amazing trails from your hiking bucket list!