Where to go walking this year…

 

Now the dark January nights are behind us, and the evenings are slowly getting lighter – it’s a good time to explore some of the UK’s beauty spots on foot, venturing out into the fresh air for a refreshing Winter walk.

We’ve scoured the internet to find some great suggestions on the ideal routes for winter strolls, often with a rewarding cosy café or seductive pub at the end.

South East

If you don’t mind a wintry sea breeze, why not check out some of these secluded spots along the Kent’s coastline, including a 4.7-mile circular walk around the cliffs of St Margaret’s. Here are some of Essex’s best walks that offer a handy stop-of along on the way, including one that takes in Paper Mill Lock.

Those looking for a good family walk in Sussex will find some great suggestions from the National Trust here. and  some luscious walks with family stop-offs in Surrey here, including the gorgeous little tea room ‘The Sheep Shed’.

A little further up the country if you want to end your walk in Cambridgeshire with a cup of tea and a lush cake, here is a list of walks perfect for you – we like the look of the Ploughman’s at The Gog Farm shop and cafe. And if you are looking for a view to take your breath away, here are some idyllic walks in Hertfordshire.

North

For those looking to escape the city centre, here are some suggestions of walks less than one hour from Manchester and Liverpool, and here are seven of the best winter walks you can do around Leeds. Or if you are a fan of a cosy pub, here are some perfect walks in Lancashire, including the award winning Burrs Country Park. And for a fresh start to this year we recommend trying some these suggested walks in Hull – including a chance to migratory birds at Flamborough Cliffs.

Midlands

In Nottinghamshire, listed here are some ideal walks for the Winter months including National Trust site Clumber Park, or nine of the best walks in Leicestershire including a chance to see some Deer at Bradgate Park. Plus, some amazing strolls for those looking to explore the around Birmingham.

South West

In Dorset, we found some good suggestions of walks that will blow away the cobwebs on a crisp Winter day including one along the Purbeck Cliffs. Then settle in with a cup of hot chocolate after a wintry stroll inSomerset including the Avenues in Montacute House. In Devon, you are spoilt for choice with this article with 51 suggestions on walks around the county. Or take to the beautiful Cornish coast, with this list of the best winter walks.

Scotland

For those in Glasgow looking for good winter dog walks here is a round-up of some the best places. You are spoilt for choice in Edinburgh, with so much to see on foot. Then there is this fabulous round-up of ideas for winter walks in Aberdeen, North East, Highlands and Islands.  

Wales and Northern Ireland

In Wales there are plenty of choices for Winter walks, in this useful round-up of 25 of the best, you’ll find something for everyone, including Aber Falls in Abergwyngregyn.

Finally, in Northern Ireland we found this great article on woodland walks that will keep you busy this winter, we love the idea of taking in the views of Belfast Lough and the coast on Carnmoney Hill.  

Hope you find some inspiration here for your next Winter stroll.