Short Walking Breaks In The UK

The UK’s long-distance paths might hog all the limelight but not everyone has two weeks spare (or the legs, for that matter!)

Fortunately there’s a near inexhaustible number of locations and routes for shorter walking breaks, ideally suited for a more relaxed two- or three-day walking holiday.

Most long-distance paths can be split into sections better suited for a short walking weekend, and towns and villages across the UK lend themselves to a pleasant, easy-going walking break.

Here's a rundown on some popular shorter walking holidays across the UK.

You could have a pleasant walking weekend almost anywhere in the UK, here are eight recommended spots for a short break.

From Boscastle on the north coast to Looe in the south, this coast-to-coast route climbs across the rugged heart of Cornwall. It’s a chance to discover a different side of this popular county, with some fairly wild sections across Bodmin Moor. The reward is discovering valleys, farms and villages way off the tourist map. Memorable sections include arriving at the remote smugglers’ pub Jamaica Inn or scaling the rocky peak of Brown Willy, Cornwall’s highest point (1378ft/420m).

The rolling Dorset countryside is little changed since it inspired Thomas Hardy’s novels. The route explores the woods, valleys and farmland between Shaftesbury and Cranborne, with a mid-point overnight stop at the leafy village of Farnham. This selected part of the longer Hardy Way crosses the former Royal hunting ground of Cranborne Chase and chalk downland of Wessex. There’s a choice of fine country pubs for accommodation and refreshments.

The Mourne Mountains of County Down in Northern Ireland provide a very challenging two-day circular trek that’s well-known among locals. Walkers follow a 100-year-old stone wall that crosses 15 of the highest peaks; so you won’t get lost but you will get tired. There are no facilities at all, you must carry tents. Great views and a a breathless sense of satisfaction are the rewards.

Recently renovated, this towpath route is now a well supported way to explore a tranquil green coast-to-coast strip through central Scotland, from the Clyde to Edinburgh Quay. Spot plenty of landmarks from the Industrial Revolution although the highlights are more modern: the Falkirk Wheel, an ingenious turntable for narrowboats, and the Kelpies, two stunning giant horse head sculptures.

This most spectacular section of this acclaimed long distance trail starts by discovering Llyn Clywedog reservoir and the UK’s tallest dam. It then leads into the green peaks and valleys of the Cambrian Mountains of Mid-Wales before descending to the fascinating alternative technology centre of Machynlleth. Limited mid-way accommodation ranges from bunkhouses to hotels – it’s best to book.

This glorious first section of the Wye Valley Walk takes walkers past the romantic landmarks of Tintern Abbey and picturesque village of Symonds Yat. The route follows the leafy river along the Wales-England border and is waymarked by a leaping salmon logo. Other highlights include Chepstow Castle, the Wye Gorge and the grand country town of Monmouth, a perfect mid-point for an overnight stay.

The loch side Highland town of Fort William makes a perfect base for a few days walking with a huge variety of dramatic routes on the doorstep. These range from a day tackling the UK’s highest summit Ben Nevis to easy canal towpath hikes. In fact the town has become an adventure holiday centre, thanks to rivers, lochs, mountains and glens in all directions. It can get busy but has plenty of accommodation, bars and outdoor outfitters.

One of the National Trust’s excellent two-day national park walking routes, this route starts at Edale Station, climbs the infamous Kinder Scout plateau, stops for the night in Castleton and ends at Hope Station. It uses good paths to cross moorland hills and rocky outcrops to the start of the Pennines. Expect company on busy holidays, especially in the pretty stone villages. Castleton is gorgeous but popular, so book ahead.

Read more: www.nationaltrust.org.uk