The best walks and hikes in England
4.5
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164,836
hikers
137,654
hikes
Hiking in England offers a diverse range of landscapes, from rugged coastlines and sandy beaches to mountainous terrains and rolling hills. The country features extensive networks of trails across its numerous National Parks, including the dramatic peaks of the Lake District and the varied gritstone moors and limestone dales of the Peak District. Hikers can explore ancient woodlands, river valleys, and distinctive geological formations, providing varied environments for all levels of outdoor activity.
Best hiking trails in England
- The most…
Last updated: May 1, 2026
4.8
(1000)
4,740
hikers
14.4km
04:24
510m
510m
Embark on the Kinder Scout Circular Walk, a moderate hiking route that takes you across varied terrain in the Peak District. You will cover 8.9 miles (14.4 km) and gain…
4.8
(475)
4,737
hikers
7.81km
02:03
60m
60m
Imagine hiking the Buttermere loop, a moderate trail that takes you around the tranquil waters of Buttermere Lake. This 4.9-mile (7.8 km) hike, with a gentle 205 feet (63 metres)…
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4.8
(403)
3,713
hikers
Embark on the Striding Edge, Helvellyn & Swirral Edge loop from Glenridding, a classic and challenging hike in the Lake District National Park. This difficult route covers 8.1 miles (13.1…
4.8
(657)
2,721
hikers
13.3km
03:57
410m
410m
Embark on the Mam Tor and the Great Ridge Circular, a moderate hiking route that showcases some of the Peak District's most iconic landscapes. As you traverse the Great Ridge,…
4.8
(446)
3,739
hikers
17.7km
06:01
890m
890m
The Fairfield Horseshoe from Ambleside offers a challenging circular hike through the Lake District National Park, renowned for its incredible panoramic views. This difficult route covers 11.0 miles (17.7 km)…
4.8
(589)
2,632
hikers
Embark on a rewarding hike through the Peak District National Park with the Mam Tor, Lose Hill & Hope loop from Castleton. This moderate route covers 8.3 miles (13.3 km)…
4.7
(350)
5,201
hikers
40.6km
12:40
1,420m
1,420m
Embark on the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge, a demanding hike that covers 25.2 miles (40.6 km) through the stunning Yorkshire Dales National Park. You will experience diverse terrain, from rough…
4.7
(436)
3,661
hikers
17.3km
04:45
260m
260m
Embark on a moderate hike around Derwent Water from Keswick, a journey that covers 10.7 miles (17.3 km) with an elevation gain of 856 feet (261 metres). This loop typically…
4.8
(295)
3,652
hikers
7.31km
02:13
160m
160m
Embark on the Five Waterfalls loop from Ingleton, a moderate hike through the stunning Yorkshire Dales National Park. This 4.5-mile (7.3 km) circular route, with 538 feet (164 metres) of…
4.8
(464)
2,648
hikers
Embark on a challenging hike through the dramatic landscapes of the Peak District with the Kinder Reservoir, Kinder Downfall & Kinder Low loop from Bowden Bridge. This moderate route covers…
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Tips from the Community
Heron Pike, at 612 metres, is slightly higher than its neighbour Rydal Fell, or Heron Pike North Top, which sits at 621 metres. From here you have the most beautiful views straight down to Winderemere.
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Great Rigg, at 766 metres (2,513 feet), is one of the summit peaks of the Fairfield Horseshoe. It also acts as a linking summit if you are coming up from Stone Arthur to Fairfield. Either way, it is a pleasant place with good views down the spur to Stone Arthur and onwards down the ridgeline to Heron Pike and distant Lake Windermere.
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Dove Crag summit is quite unassuming, just a small cairn on a rocky ledge, but it offers a good vantage point with super nice expansive views over the eastern fells and back towards High Pike. It is quite a walk to get here from Ambleside; most do it as part of the Fairfield Horseshoe, but it is well worth it for the views. It is also famous for the hidden Priest Hole Cave located on its steep eastern cliff face.
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Fantastic views of the surroundings mountains on the way up to Fairfield.
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Interesting piece of history surrounding Mam Tor
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Crowden Tower 618m P5.2 (2027ft) (Hill ID: 512895) [JNSA s1076] The Mountains of England & Wales summit. Peak District National Park Definitive List summit.
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More Information
A nation of national parks
England has ten of the UK’s 15 national parks and they still barely scratch the surface of the landscape available to explore. In addition, there are 33 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the country and more under consideration. In short, walks in England are almost always going to be somewhere deemed exceptionally lovely.
National parks hold some of the best hiking trails in England and vary hugely. Walking is flat and blissful in the New Forest’s oak woodlands and the Broads’ exquisite fens. Tramp from tor to tor across exposed Dartmoor and scale the high heathlands of the Peak District. Walk for days through the romantic Lake District and trace Roman history on your hikes in Northumberland.
The national parks span almost every type of landscape in the country and are criss-crossed with trails ranging from, quite literally, a walk in the park, all the way to expert mountaineering routes.
Hiking through the seasons
The weather across the country can be as varied as the landscape. Each season showcases a new aspect of nature, making hikes in England wonderfully varied all year round.
In spring, the countryside is at its loudest in every sense of the word. Songbirds are abundant in hedgerows, woodlands and gardens while the nation’s forests are back in full swing with green leaves and colourful blossom.
Summer is known for its long evenings, making hiking a truly all day affair. The school holidays bring crowds to the national parks and other well-known regions but that’s not to say you can’t always find a quieter trail off-the-beaten track.
Early autumn is often a magnificent time to go walking anywhere in England, especially in the many forests. With heaps of golden leaves, deer darting through colourful parkland and the purple evening skies, autumn hiking is peaceful and invigorating.
There are few things better than a crisp, sunny winter walk with frosty spider webs across sleeping blackberry bushes. No matter where and when you go though, walking England’s trails is a beautiful and rewarding experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in England?
England offers an extensive network of hiking trails, with over 140,000 routes recorded on komoot. These range from easy strolls to challenging mountain ascents, catering to all experience levels.
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in England?
England's diverse landscapes include dramatic peaks and glacial valleys in the Lake District, gritstone moors and limestone dales in the Peak District, and the unique geological formations of the Yorkshire Dales. You'll also find stunning coastlines like the Jurassic Coast and the white cliffs of Dover, ancient woodlands, and rolling hills across various National Parks.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, England has over 74,000 easy routes. For a gentle, scenic option, consider the Buttermere loop in the Lake District, which circles the tranquil lake with minimal elevation gain. The Five waterfalls loop from Ingleton in the Yorkshire Dales is another moderate option that offers beautiful natural sights.
Where can I find challenging hikes in England?
For more challenging experiences, England offers over 7,000 difficult routes. The Lake District is home to strenuous climbs like the Striding Edge, Helvellyn & Swirral Edge loop. In the Yorkshire Dales, the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge is a well-known, demanding trek.
Are there any circular walks in England?
Many of England's best hikes are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Popular options include the Kinder Scout Circular Walk and the Mam Tor and the Great Ridge Circular, both offering stunning views in the Peak District.
Can I find hikes with waterfalls in England?
Yes, England features several beautiful waterfalls. The Yorkshire Dales, in particular, are known for their cascades. A great example is the Five waterfalls loop from Ingleton, which takes you past several impressive falls.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in England?
The hiking trails in England are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 33,000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the varied landscapes, from dramatic mountain scenery to tranquil lake paths, and the well-maintained, clearly marked trails that make exploration enjoyable for all skill levels.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the hiking routes?
England's hiking trails often pass by significant natural and historical landmarks. In the Peak District, you might encounter Hollins Cross or the dramatic Winnats Pass. The Lake District offers stunning views of places like Grisedale Tarn. Many routes also lead through charming villages and past historic sites.
Are there any hikes that offer views of reservoirs or lakes?
Absolutely. The Lake District is famous for its lakes, and routes like the Derwent Water loop from Keswick provide stunning lakeside vistas. In the Peak District, the Kinder Reservoir, Kinder Downfall & Kinder Low loop offers views of the reservoir and the iconic Kinder Downfall.
What are some popular areas for hiking in England?
Key hiking destinations include the Lake District, known for its mountains and lakes; the Peak District, with its diverse gritstone and limestone landscapes; and the Yorkshire Dales, famous for its dales, rivers, and unique geological features. The South Downs National Park also offers beautiful chalk cliffs and rolling hills.
Are there any long-distance hiking paths in England?
England boasts several renowned long-distance paths, including National Trails like the Pennine Way, Hadrian's Wall Path, and the South West Coast Path. While not all are covered in this guide, these trails offer multi-day hiking experiences across diverse regions.
Most popular routes in England
Most popular attractions in England
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