Best UK walking holiday spots for 2021 from Berkshire to North Wales

As many people swap out their usual summer holidays abroad for staycations, you too might be looking to explore some of Britain’s most beautiful destinations on foot this summer.

But while some prefer relaxing walks with spectacular views, many seasoned hikers are more interested in finding their next big challenge, whether that be a mountain ascent or a 24-mile circular walk.

The good news is that you can actually have the best of both with the UK walking holiday destinations on our list, as they all offer a range of hiking routes for everyone, regardless of age, equipment and fitness level.

Here are five of the best UK walking holiday spots for 2021, including some of our recommendations for routes to try during your stay.

1. Holmfirth, West Yorkshire

Holmfirth might be best-known for its associations with ‘Last of the Summer Wine,’ but it’s also a real treat for any keen walker, cyclist or general outdoor adventurer.

Ideally located on the northeastern edge of the breathtaking Peak District National Park, this thriving West Yorkshire market town has it all, from gentle, beginner-friendly trails and bridleways to the more advanced 24-mile Holme Valley Circular Walk.

Looking for even more? Take a bus to nearby Denby Dale or Glossop or test your stamina against the iconic Holme Moss, which was part of the 2014 Tour de France’s Yorkshire Grand Départ route.

Here are some more of our favourite walks you can start from The Old Bridge Inn, Holmfirth:

• • Last of the Summer Wine Country Circular Walk
  • The Thongs & Wolfstone Heights Walk
  • Holmfirth Heritage Trail

2. St Ives, Cambridgeshire 

The picturesque Cambridgeshire market town of St Ives is home to some stunning places to walk, whether you’re looking for a casual stroll or a more challenging hike.

From the Needingworth Nature Reserve to the Holywell circular walking route, there are plenty of country parks and riverside paths to make the most of during your visit.

There’s lots to choose from, but we particularly recommend the 4.5-mile path from St Ives to Woodhurst for stunning views and interesting history, or the popular walking route to the nearby bustling village of Houghton if you’re looking for a walk with plenty of things to do at the other end.

The Golden Lion Hotel in St Ives is ideally situated for exploring the area – book your stay today by clicking here.

3. Conwy, North Wales

With mountains, waterfalls and miles of coastline, it’s no secret that Wales is one of the best UK walking holiday spots.

Conwy is the ideal base for exploring the very best of North Wales’ diverse landscapes and dramatic scenery, with everything from family-friendly rambles to expert-level rocky mountain paths in easy reach.

If scaling a mountain is on your holiday bucket list, you’ll find Wales’ highest mountain in Snowdonia National Park, just a half hour drive from Conwy.

Here are a few scenic walks we would recommend, but the friendly team at The Castle Hotel, Conwy will be happy to help you find the best routes for you.

• • • Conwy to Llandudno Coastal Walk
    • Aber Falls Circular Walk
    • Conwy Town Walls Walk 

4. Hungerford, Berkshire

Set in the heart of Berkshire, Hungerford is a pretty historic canalside market town famous for its antique shops, lively events scene and stunning natural beauty.

And when it comes to outdoor activities, Hungerford doesn’t disappoint, with a number of popular routes for walking and cycling. Hungerford Wharf’s flat circular walk is a favourite among families and couples looking for an easy stroll, offering a scenic route that passes through the town of Hungerford and along the canal, with plenty of picnic spots along the way.

Combe Gibbet is another walking and cycling highlight, with a range of footpaths, amazing wildlife and fantastic photography opportunities. At 297 metres, nearby Walbury Hill is the highest point in Berkshire, providing more of a challenge for visiting hikers.

Looking for a walking holiday in Berkshire? Click here to find out more and book your stay at The Three Swans Hotel, Hungerford today.

5. Richmond, North Yorkshire

With a large cobbled marketplace, Georgian architecture and a Norman castle, Richmond is both one of the most beautiful Yorkshire Dales market towns and one of the best UK walking holiday spots, with walking and cycling routes for all ages, interests and abilities. Take a stroll along the Batts to the waterfall, or around the Easby Abbey Drummer Boy walk. Alternatively, you could take on the iconic Coast to Coast walk, which people come from far and wide to complete.

If you’re willing to go a little further afield, you could also attempt the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge from Ribbleshead, a 24-mile walk which sees you take on 1,585 metres of ascent in under 12 hours as you scale Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and finally Ingleborough.

To learn more about The King’s Head Hotel, Richmond and to book your next stay, click here.

Finding the right UK walking holiday destination for you

One of life’s simple pleasures is pulling on some sturdy walking boots and heading outside in search of beautiful views on a clear day.

At The Coaching Inn Group, our family of Inns are spread out across the country in some of the very best market towns and UK walking holiday spots – click here to start planning plan your next getaway today.