The United Kingdom Walking Tours

This is the secret Lake District of the Caldbeck Fells - John Peel country - an area that sees few visitors, yet its wild and beautiful fells offer superb walking with panoramic views of the Scottish hills across the Solway estuary, as well as the familiar peaks of Central Lakeland observed from a unique vantage. We provide details and maps for several walk options from easy to challenging. Centred on the traditional villages of Hesket Newmarket and Uldale the walks vary from wanders along quiet bridleways and country lanes, taking in local pubs along the way, to ascents of the main Caldbeck Fells of Carrock, High Pike, Knott, Great Sca Fell and Great Cockup. Be different and visit the lesser known ‘Secret Lake District’ of the Calbeck Fells.

Custom routes from 50km (3 days) to 250km (10 days)

EasyWays are pleased to announce a new tour for 2020 that embraces the islands off the west coast of Scotland. The tour offers the opportunity to experience Arran, Islay, Jura and Gigha along with parts of the Kintyre and Argyll Peninsulas in a combination tour that provides something for everyone. The islands have reasonable public transport access from Central Scotland and the terrain offers a good mix of coastal and hill walking.

With the EasyWays package just advise what locations you would like to visit and your preferred dates for walking and let us construct a tour that encapsulates all on a bespoke itinerary utilising public transport connections throughout thereby keeping the price to optimum level. All tours include baggage transfer and ferry travel including detailed advice on how to get to and from the start and end points on your chosen route.

Choose from any of nine segments—follow the link or contact Encounter Walking Holidays for more information.

From towering cliffs to hidden coves, ghostly tin mines to lush wooded creeks. One minute a dramatic rock theatre hewn out of the cliffs, the next a prehistoric fossilised forest. On the South West Coast Path you re-trace the footsteps, histories and lives of old tin miners, fisherman, smugglers, wreckers and of the customs men who chased them.

The full path snakes a staggering 630 miles, but is more commonly broken up into nine shorter sections. Encounter Walking Holidays will happily tailor a route to your preferences—get in touch now for more information.

Hadrian’s Wall Path is an epic 84 miles in total stretching from sea to sea through the beautiful and rugged borderlands between Scotland and England.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is Europe’s largest surviving Roman monument and steeped in history, as well as being a popular location for films and television shoots. It was the northern frontier of the Roman Empire and took a force of 15,000 men 6 years to build.

If you want to see the best preserved parts of the Wall with museums and forts then our Highlights of the Wall walk may be for you. This 41 mile walk between Chollerford and Carlisle is where the Wall can be seen at its best. You will see fine examples of the forts, turrets and milecastles, stay in hand-picked accommodation, visit the historic Border City of Carlisle to see the castle and museums and learn about the “Cursing Stone’, a curse made against the Reivers – robbers, blackmailers and highwaymen – who blighted this area 500 years ago.

Head for the more remote valleys of the northern Dales to explore fast-flowing rivers, stunning hay meadows, traditional villages and fascinating mining remains. Spend your first day crossing the wild, open moorland between Arkengarthdale and Swaledale before enjoying a classic exploration of upper Swaledale, with its waterfalls and welcoming little villages. Your third day takes you along the Swale to popular Reeth before heading up to Fremington Edge for views back over much of your route.

Spend your first day enjoying the famous Malham circuit, taking in Gordale Scar, Malham Tarn and the huge arc of Malham Cove, as well as the quieter footpaths in between. Your second day takes you across the moors into Wharfedale where you visit the pretty village of Linton before arriving at your base for the last two nights in beautiful Burnsall. Spend your last full day exploring a lovely stretch of the River Wharf (great for a dip if you’re brave enough!) and the gorge of Trollers Gill.

This route explores the peaceful fells of the Cumbrian part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Spend your first full day heading for the summit of brooding Wild Boar Fell, with views over much of the western Dales, the Eden Valley and the Howgill Fells. Your second day is a full-length traverse across the distinctive Howgill Fells to reach the ‘book town’ of Sedbergh. Your final day’s walk takes you over moorland and along gentle riverside paths in Dentdale, complete with a stop in picturesque Dent.

The food is as much a highlight as the walking on this trip, with fantastic dishes using lots of local produce on offer at both hotels.

Beginning with your feet in the Irish Sea and ending with a dip (optional) in the North Sea, Wainwright's 190 mile Coast-to-Coast walk will take you through some of England's finest scenery as you traverse three National Parks and cross the Pennine spine of the country, literally from Coast to Coast. This is England's most famous long distance path and a simply outstanding journey.

The Anglesey Coastal Path is over 125 miles long and runs through some of the finest coastal scenery in Wales. Much of the Anglesey coastline is designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) (one of 5 areas in Wales). This Coast Path walk offers a varied walking holiday crossing sandy dunes, wide estuaries, rocky cliffs and rolling farmland.

From many points along the walk there are fantastic views over to the Snowdon hills and the Llyn Peninsula. On clear days you can see as far as the Isle of Man and even the mountains of Ireland. There is abundant wildlife, including many sea birds and seals and you may be lucky enough to see dolphins.

Enjoy a relaxed ramble through Wharfedale, soaking up riverside paths, woodland trails, moorland views and pretty villages. Explore the charming villages of mid-Wharfedale before heading north all the way to the ‘head of the valley’. On the way, you will take in atmospheric Grass Wood, the fascinating ‘Conistone Dib’, a trip into peaceful Littondale, the villages of Kettlewell and Buckden and stunning views up and down the valley. There is also plenty of time to stop and refuel in some of the many cosy pubs and cafes on the way.

Begin your journey in the small market town of Middleham with its impressive castle ruins and spend a day exploring the quiet footpaths of exquisite Coverdale, remote Walden and idyllic Bishopdale before making your way west towards the head of Wensleydale, taking in famous Aysgarth Falls and the banks of the surprisingly peaceful River Ure.

Explore the famous green pastures of bucolic Wensleydale and its beautiful tributary valleys before crossing one of Yorkshire’s highest mountains to reach the more remote valley of Swaledale, full of dry stone walls, field barns, waterfalls and sweeping views. Much of this route takes in classic ‘Herriot Country’ and is our take on the well-known ‘Herriot Way’.

73 miles (117.5 km) ~ 6 days walking

Also available in shorter segments or as a custom itinerary - get in touch for more information.

The Great Glen Way stretches from Fort William in the shadow the mighty Ben Nevis to the Highland Capital of Inverness crossing a breath-taking landscape of lochs, hills and forests, with glorious views over Loch Ness.

The Great Glen Way offers a great introduction to Highlands long distance walking and although mostly on low-level terrain there are some challenging sections alongside Loch Ness. On leaving Fort William you will first encounter Neptune’s Staircase, a series of eight locks linking sea Loch Linnhe to the Caledonian Canal built by the Victorian Engineer, Thomas Telford in the early 19th Century.

Continue on past beautiful Loch Lochy and Loch Oich to the world-famous Loch Ness, home of myths and legends, overnighting in iconic highland villages of Fort Augustus and Drumnadrochit where the best selection of Scottish food and drink is on offer before reaching Inverness Castle, the end point of the route.

The Northumberland coast is best known for its sweeping sandy beaches, rolling dunes, high rocky cliffs and isolated islands. The special qualities of this coastal landscape led it to being designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1958 recognising that the Northumberland coast is one of the finest landscapes in the country.

This 64 miles walk takes in probably one of the finest sections of coastline in England. Part of the 'North Sea Trail' you will follow the Northumberland Coast Path from Cresswell in the South to Berwick upon Tweed in the North.

The route follows the coast in most places with an inland detour between Belford and Holy Island. Most of the route is on footpaths and bridleways but in some places beaches, minor roads and permissive paths are used.

The route is generally level with very few steep climbs and makes for a superb walking holiday in Northumberland.

Self-guided Walking Holiday along the Northumberland Coast Path From Cresswell to Berwick-upon-Tweed over 7 days giving you plenty of time to explore some of the sights on route.

Walk the best preserved sections of Hadrian’s wall, beginning in the market town of Brampton, and continuing to historic Corbridge Roman Town. Visit world famous forts and museums: Vindolanda, Birdoswald, Housesteads, & Chesters. Admire the architectural splendor of Aydon castle, Thirlwall castle and Lanercost Priory. Spot the famous Robin Hood’s Tree at Sycamore Gap. Travel through the centuries walking along Hadrian’s Wall, the best-known frontier in the Roman Empire.

Highlights

• Walk the best preserved sections of Hadrian’s wall, beginning in the market town of Brampton, and continuing to historic Corbridge Roman Town.
• Visit world famous forts and museums: Vindolanda, Birdoswald, Housesteads, & Chesters.
• Admire the architectural splendor of Aydon castle, Thirlwall castle and Lanercost Priory.
• Spot the famous Robin Hood’s Tree at Sycamore Gap.
• Travel through the centuries walking along Hadrian’s Wall, the best-known frontier in the Roman Empire.

This 10 day Winchester to Eastbourne South Downs Way walk is the perfect choice if you want to take things at a slow pace with no long days. Choosing this 10 day holiday will allow you to really enjoy your surroundings and have some time to explore places of interest along the way.

Return to Nature and the English Countryside on an 11-day, 10-night tour tracing the full length of the rolling Cotswold hills. 102 miles of magical walking from Chipping Campden in the North to Bath in the South, leading you from one breath-taking view to the next, immersing you in the Cotswolds’ iconic history and heritage and championing England in all its glory.

Journey on foot, at your own pace, in your own time. We take all the hassle out of walking by including all luggage transfers, organising and booking all accommodation, providing maps, GPS instructions, and recommending incredible iconic palaces, castles, estates, ancient sites and more to visit along the way. Walk through the Cotswolds along canals, rivers and meadows into our incredible towns and cities.

Step back in time on one of our idyllic walks through the heart of the English countryside, along routes used since prehistoric times, winding through villages, tracing ridgelines, down into woodlands and valleys, and with panoramic views around every corner. These linear journeys are the perfect way to discover England at its finest.

Setting off from the village, we will climb through Shropshire’s ‘little Switzerland’ passing Victorian reservoirs and viewing ancient fossils as we make our way up to the top of the Mynd, learning about the history and features.

The route starts in the famous Carding Mill Valley from a National Trust car park, climbing the steep paths past waterfalls, lakes, bronze age barrows and iron age forts, reaching the Pole Bank summit with views across Wales, Shropshire, Hereford and Worcestershire where Woolly Mammoths once roamed and gliders now soar. We follow ancient tracks, such as the the Portway path riding the ridge for several miles and making our descent into the batches, ending back at the cafe for cake.

From the village of West Burton, head past the famously beautiful waterfall before gaining height through woodland, where you can see a wealth of wildflowers and keep your eyes peeled for the odd early evening deer. Emerge onto the fellside, where great views over the Dales start to open up and your guide will help you spot fossils embedded in the rocks over 300 million years ago.

After a last uphill pull, enjoy a lovely stroll along walled green lanes to get to your perfect sunset spot, where your guide will provide drinks and nibbles while you enjoy the sunset over a stunning vista stretching along Wensleydale, Bishopdale and the Walden Valley.

Once the sun has set, your guide will ensure you arrive safely back in West Burton as night descends.

If you prefer to organise your own accommodation we can arrange a convenient and reliable door-to-door baggage transfer service at unbeatable rates. Prices below are based on sectors of less than 20 miles and travelling west to east. If you are doing more than 20 miles per day or walking/cycling in the other direction please contact us. The maximum permitted weight per bag is 20 kgs.

• £23 per transfer for 1 bag
• £28 per transfer for 2 bags
• £33 per transfer for 3-4 bags
• For 5 bags or more contact us for a special rate

A tour of the eastern side of Peak District's highest mountain.
Together we enjoy the peace of the dawn and panoramic views, with just birdsong for company. At a steady pace we ascend the plateau, journeying past the atmospheric, mysterious shapes of gritstone tors. As the sun rises, we settle down in a comfortable spot for breakfast coffee, tea, orange juice, croissant, pastries and fruit. We then have a little more time for exploring in the fresh morning air before descending back to Edale.

Based out of historic Hayfield, a picturesque village with excellent pubs, cafes and accommodation choices. Each dog friendly walk showcases amazing panoramic views from feature packed trails. John and Stu are both experienced dog owners. They regularly guide groups together, sharing enjoyment of the Peak District, scenery and environment, with great enthusiasm.

Enjoy what must be one of the most scenic ascents of any mountain in England up the waterfall filled slopes of Buckden Gill, including a couple of short scrambles to get round the bigger cascades, to reach the atmospheric ruins of Buckden Lead Mine. Here your guide will tell you about the mystery of ‘Buckden Bill’ as well as the history of the mine itself before a last pull up to the summit of Buckden Pike.

Enjoy a picnic lunch while taking in the stunning views over much of the Dales (and further on a clear day) before visiting the nearby war memorial, erected to commemorate the Polish airmen whose bomber crashed into the hillside during a snowstorm in 1942. Find out the story of the lone survivor before descending back into Wharfedale along ancient ‘green lanes’. Stop in the pretty village of Starbotton for a well-earned drink at the village pub before finishing the day with a gentle stroll along the banks of the River Wharfe back to Buckden.

Enjoy a full exploration of fascinating and beautiful Gunnerside Gill. As well as spending the day in the tranquil Yorkshire Dales landscape, we will be looking at the surviving lead mining remains and getting a feel for how different this area must have been 200 years ago when it was bustling with people and machinery.

We will look at how nature has slowly been reclaiming the landscape over the last couple of centuries, as well as future plans for nature recovery in the area - it is part of the ‘Tees-Swale: Naturally Connected’ project, which is aiming to restore, expand and connect habitats across the uplands of Teesdale and Swaledale.

You will also have chance to discuss and consider our own interaction with nature and how the landscape we enjoy today is inextricably linked with human actions, both past and present. End your day with a fascinating visit to a 200 year old working smithy and a drink in the local pub.

A classic Kinder Scout hike from Edale in the Peak District.

Starting from the village of Edale we head up one of the quieter and most impressive routes onto Kinder Scout. Once we reach the top we walk along the southern edge of Kinder, taking in little-known rock formations such as the Druids Stone. We will then reach the fantastic eastern corner of Kinder with it's magnificent views over to the Eastern Edges. Next we follow the northern side of Kinder and it's eastern summit trig point before taking one of the famous unmarked "Kinder Crossings" across the notoriously difficult to navigate plateau.

On our way back to Edale there a number of different route options we can take depending on the group and conditions on the day.

The walk is partly on good footpaths and partly rougher stony paths. There is one fairly long ascent of about 400m/1200ft and a similar descent at the end. There are likely to be some muddy sections and due to the nature of the Kinder Scout plateau we may well encounter areas of peat bogs.

You will need to be reasonably physically fit and have some experience of walking in rough terrain. Walking boots providing good ankle protection and grippy soles which will also keep your feet dry in boggy areas are definitely required. All our events are approved as "Good to Go" Covid-secure by Visit England.

The highest points in the Peak District are the only places in England where you can still find Mountain Hares. Most people will never see them when walking in the hills but I have a 100% record of seeing them and getting some great photos on these trips. It goes without saying that it's worth taking along a camera with a long lens or zoom and binoculars if you have them. If you don't, not to worry as I'll send you a set of digital photo's taken on the day.

The walk starts from the Snake Pass road, between Glossop and Sheffield. After a gradual climb of around 200m (600ft), we reach a flattening from where we leave the Pennine Way path. I will now navigate you across the complex moorland terrain to some of the best locations to see Mountain Hares in their natural habitat. There will also be the chance of seeing short-eared owls, golden plover, red grouse, kestrels, and other wildlife on these trips as well as learning about the ecology and restoration of these amazing bog and moorland habitats.
We will spend time here observing the hares before heading to the site of the B29 Superfortress "Over Exposed" plane crash. This is an incredible and moving location, and the most impressive in the region.

The walk is mostly on a mixture of good tracks and smaller footpaths which can be rough in places and includes a few gradual hills. Some of the paths is paved and tends to be a little slippy when wet. At any time of year, there are likely to be some muddy sections, especially once we start to head away from the Pennine Way across the moors. The terrain here becomes rougher with no paths in some sections.

This experience is also available as a private bespoke event for you/your group on a date you select and with a number of different walks to the hare locations. We also operate a Mountain Hare Photography Experience which is again booked as a private bespoke event on a date you select and focussed on spending a day photographing the mountain hares.

We set off from Bowden Bridge car park, the starting point for the famous 1932 Mass Trespass. We head up an easy track to Kinder Reservoir which provides some great views. The track gives way to a smaller path now which can be rough and somewhat muddy in places as we start to head up the main climb towards Kinder Scout.

After a climb of around 300m (1000ft), we reach a flattening from where we make a short detour to the site of a 1942 plane crash (both crew members walked away). The plane was a brand new USAF B24 Liberator which had departed from Burtonwood near Warrington. The wings and remains of engines and other parts can still be seen.

We head back now and climb another 100m (300ft) onto the plateau of Kinder and follow the edge towards the spectacular Kinder Downfall, still following the original 1932 Trespass route. After the downfall, we continue on to the strangely named Kinder Low which is actually the highest of Kinder's three trig points at 633m (2077ft). It's not quite at the very summit, which is a rather indistinct point 3m higher and about 800m away on the boggy plateau. I can guide you to it if you want to be at the very top!
It's now time to start heading back down which we do via a nice path over Kinderlow End. Before we drop down we'll pass a "Bowl Barrow", which is an early Bronze Age (~2000BC) burial mound. We continue down through the fields and back to Bowden Bridge.
The walk is mostly on a mixture of good tracks and smaller footpaths which can be rough in places and includes 1 fairly long hill. The hill up to Kinder is a steady climb of about 400m (1300ft)

Just before that climb, there is a short steep stone path which tends to be a little slippy when wet. At any time of year, there are likely to be some muddy sections, especially once we start to head up towards Kinder with it's peat bogs. As we climb up onto Kinder the path becomes rougher and a little rocky in places. Either side of Kinder Downfall a little more care is needed on these rocks. There is a fairly long descent back down but the route I have chosen provides one of the more gradual descents.

The walk starts from the small village of Rowsley, located where the River Wye meets the River Derwent. Rowsley is home to the fascinating Caudwell's Mill which still runs most days.

We pass by the back of the mill, and head through fields below the beech wood-topped Peak Tor which was home to an early Celtic settlement and still has the remains of a dry moat. We soon head up fairly steeply towards some lovely woods and then onto Stanton Moor.

The site is a Scheduled Ancient Monument and the sandstone moor is home to many interesting features for us to visit including the famous bronze age Nine Ladies Stone Circle, the Reform or "Earl Grey" Tower, and the Cork Stone. We then head down to the small village of Birchover, which we wind our way around, before returning via another route through Stanton Moor before heading back down to Rowsley.

The walk is mostly on good tracks and footpaths with one fairly steep hill up to Stanton Moor from Rowsley, a climb of about 200 m (600 ft). At any time of year, there could be some muddy sections.

Probably one of the most interesting routes on Kinder Scout. Starting from Edale we walk through the lovely village of Edale and across fields before heading fairly steeply up towards Grindslow Knoll. From here the route we take is a stunning walk past many of Kinder's key features including the Wool Pack rocks and Pym Chair until we reach one of Kinder Scout's 3 trig points at Kinder Low.

We then continue on to the famous Kinder Downfall which changes its appearance depending on the weather from a lovely sunny lunch spot by a trickling stream to an almost perpetual waterfall on windy days when the water blows upwards as in the photo!

Next we walk into the notoriously complex "groughs and hags" that cover the plateau. This is an area of deep winding channels through the peat, the sides of which are often several metres high making navigation extremely difficult. The terrain will obviously be rough as we cross this area for approximately 2km and involve the crossing of several of these channels and working our way around some areas of bog. Having reached the main path once again we follow the southern edge back to Edale.

The walk starts out with a short but steady climb of about 100m (300ft) up to the top of the famous Mam Tor (or Shivering Mountain) at a height of 517m. From here we'll experience what has been described by a previous chair of the National Trust as "one of the top ten views in England".

We then follow along the Great Ridge towards Hollins Cross, which provides a great place to view the remains of the old Sheffield to Chapel en le Frith road which was lost to the landslips in 1979. We continue along the ridge to Lose Hill for another great viewpoint.

Leaving the ridge we drop down and follow another beautiful path back towards Mam Tor. We drop down further through a beautiful wood (with bluebells in spring) to join the route of the old road providing spectacular views of Mam Tor.

After returning to the cars there is the option to walk a little further for views of the amazing Winnats Pass.

The walk is mostly on good tracks and smaller footpaths and includes 3 fairly short but steep hills, each a climb of about 100m (300ft). At any time of year there could be some muddy sections. There is a fairly long descent towards the bottom of Mam Tor which is a little steep in places and can be a little slippery when wet so footwear with good grip is required.

This great guided walk starts from Fairholmes car park at the top end of Ladybower Reservoir near Bamford, Derbyshire. Before we head to the hills we will take time to visit the famous Derwent Reservoir dam where the “Dambusters” of the Royal Air Force 617 Squadron practiced 75 years ago this spring.

From the dam we head along the shore of Derwent Reservoir before the 300m/1500ft climb up onto the glorious Derwent Edge. The climb up is mostly gradual and on a clear day provides great views of the surrounding region.

Once on the ridge we pass the "Lost Lad" cairn and then follow a good paved path through the peat and heather landscape with a good chance for spotting some of the local wildlife. The views continue all the way along the ridge as we pass the various rocky tors and beautifully shaped rocks such as Back Tor, the Cakes of Bread, Dove Stone, and the Salt Cellar to name but a few.

From the end of the ridge we wind our way gradually back down to Ladybower Reservoir and our return to Fairholmes passing the site of the old submerged village of Derwent.

A stunning walk with amazing views, from the popular outdoors village of Hathersage.

The walk starts off fairly gently through the valley and woods before climbing up to the famous gritstone edge of Stanage. We walk along Stanage Edge, with a chance to visit Robin Hood's Cave, and "Keira Knightley Rock" for some great Instagram locations before then continuing on to Burbage with its ancient hill fort. The walk then heads back to Hathersage through moorland, fields and woods.

This walk takes you up a lovely but little visited ridge onto the second highest mountain in the Peak District, Bleaklow. We set off from Old Glossop along the route of an old roman road. Soon we leave the main path and gradually climb up an easy track until which reach Dog Rock providing some fantastic views.

The path becomes much smaller and almost indistinct now as we head across the notoriously difficult to navigate Bleaklow. Having an experienced guide with you means there’s no need to worry! As we continue over Bleaklow the route will be a little rougher in places. There will be great opportunities here to teach you a little about this special and important ecosystem on this the second highest mountain in the Peaks and the location of some of its wildest countryside. If you have an interest in navigation your guide will happily share some skills and you could even try navigating the group across a section of the notoriously complex Bleaklow moor!

After a total climb of around 350m (1200ft) we reach the “kissing stones”, a good spot for some lunch. From here we head over to the site of the B29 Superfortress plane crash (sadly all 13 crew members died). The plane was on a short journey from Lincolnshire to Burtonwood near Warrington when it hit the top of the hill in low cloud. This crash site is an extensive area of wreckage from the USAF Boeing B-29 Superfortress nick-named “Over Exposed” which crashed on November 3rd 1948. This plane is famous for having filmed the first two Bikini Atoll atom bomb tests in July 1946 and it's involvement in relieving the West Berlin Blockade in 1948.

To finish the walk we will take a route passing the crash site of a Lancaster Bomber Mk.X. This crash site and memorial to a Canadian Lancaster Bomber is about a mile away from the B-29 crash site. From here we will continue down the ridge with great views back down to Old Glossop.

The walk is mostly on a mixture of good tracks and smaller footpaths which can be rough in places and includes 1 fairly long hill. The hill up to Bleaklow is a steady climb of about 350m (1200ft). At any time of year there are likely to be some muddy sections, especially once we start to head up towards Bleaklow with it's peat bogs and we will be leaving the paths for about 1km across rougher ground as we head to the crash site. There is a fairly long gradual descent back down to Glossop.

This is a particularly varied walk with the added bonus of a fantastic array of wild flowers and orchids in spring and early summer. The walk leaves the village of Ashford in the Water and climbs up and across fields to Monsal Head providing amazing views of the Wye valley. We then descend to the river before following along it's side through Monsal Dale.

We continue into Deep Dale where there is an abundance of flowers including the early purple orchid, wild thyme, cowslips and many more in spring and early summer.

We progress up Deep Dale to Magpie Mine, where we explore the best preserved 19th Century lead mine in the UK, with it’s Cornish engine house, chimneys and even an old horse gin. The Peak District Mines Historical Society have done a great job in preserving what is now Derbyshire's top industrial heritage site. There will be further opportunities to see spring flowers on the return walk to Ashford in the Water, some of which have adapted to living in areas with a high lead concentration, such as the Leadwort and yellow mountain pansies.

Our gorge scrambling sessions take place in the dramatic stream fed valleys of the 'Dark Peak' an area of outstanding natural beauty. The playful character and situation of this activity make it a very popular choice as a unique recreational experience for all types of group.

Gorge scrambling with younger groups can produce a genuine sense of adventure and exploration.
Expect to be crawling under logs, climbing up waterfalls, damming up streams, swimming across short pools and jumping into a plunge pool,

Begin your day with a short journey on the famously scenic ‘Settle-Carlisle’ Railway from Garsdale Station along the Mallerstang Valley to reach our starting point at Kirkby Stephen station. From here we follow the ridge along the western side of the Mallerstang Valley, all the way back to Garsdale Head.

The route takes us over open access land across the fells to reach the fascinating summit plateau of Wild Boar Fell where views on a clear day stretch over much of the western Yorkshire Dales, the Eden Valley, the North Pennines, the Howgill Fells and to the mountains of the Lake District! There is even a little tarn just off the summit perfect for splashing our feet or even having a quick dip on a hot day!

The fantastic views continue as we descend over the moor to Garsdale Head, the meeting point of Wensleydale and Garsdale, where there is just time to stop for some refreshment in a remote Dales inn before collecting your car or catching the train home.

A real life computer game! Dropped off at a remote location, you choose to race the clock or another group in your party. Avoid capture whilst solving problems and finding clues to navigate to the next location and ultimately find the computer code before the bad guys. The clues can be in hard to access locations, so weaselling, rock climbing, abseiling and zip lining/high ropes are likely to be involved amongst other challenges.

Experience the ultimate combination of adventure activities for an unforgettable day, choosing between climbing, abseiling, caving and gorge walking in the heart of the Peak District.

Kick off the MAD adventure with the challenge of gritstone climbing at the iconic Stanage Edge. Push yourself, reach the top, be rewarded with spectacular views over the Hope Valley.

It’s time for Mission Impossible! Get your adrenaline coursing as you abseil back down to terra firma with as much flair and speed as you can muster.

Don your wet-suit and walk, scramble, climb and jump in an ancient freshwater gorge. You’ll traverse ancient rock, slides, chutes, waterfalls and whirlpools, it’s certainly an exhilarating end to this MAD day.

Prepare to get muddy as you delve into the wild subterranean world of Bagshawe Cavern. Additional MAD points available for those crazy enough to take on the challenge of squeezing themselves through The Masher.

Let us make your challenge a grand day out... Welcome to Ranger Expeditions' original Peak District 3 Peaks Challenge. Our walk takes in the summits of Black Hill, Bleaklow and Kinder Scout. Discover glorious and remote high moorland, gritstone edges and the spectacular Kinder Downfall waterfall, all along classic and historic trails.
This Open Group challenge is fully supported and guided by experienced local Mountain Leaders. Includes…
Transport from meeting point in Hayfield to the start of the walk. Support vehicle with snacks, sandwiches, refreshments and drinks at two locations on the route.

We start the day with tea and coffee and after introductions we will look at setting up your phone for effective photography. We will look at basic techniques and ideas including composition, framing as well as picking and approaching subjects. We will also look at what apps are available and discuss the popular options including Instagram and Lightroom. We will then head out to an outdoor venue take to some photographs before returning to get feedback, look at editing your photos and the options for letting the world see your photographic creations.

The courses will be run by Alex Ekins a qualified photojournalist and a Mountaineering and Rock Climbing instructor with over 25 years experience of photography and rock climbing throughout the world. Alex has been published in the mainstream media including The Financial Times, The Guardian, The Independent, The Economist, Le Monde and National Geographic as well as in climbing magazines throughout the world.

This one day Navigation Course will introduce you to the fundamental skills of navigation and give you experience of using these new found skills in the beautiful Peak District. An initial, short, theory session in our training centre is followed by a full day out on the hills giving you plenty of opportunity to practise and gain advice and encouragement from our experienced instructors. By the end of the day you will have a solid grounding in map reading techniques and some experience of using a compass.

By making no assumptions about previous experience this course is equally suitable for complete novices and seasoned walkers who are looking for an introduction to formal navigation techniques.

Begin in the quintessential Dales village of Kettlewell in Wharfedale, where we’ll get the family engaged early by helping to plan the route before we head uphill to gain stunning views up and down the valley. The return leg is a gentle stroll along the River Wharfe with opportunities for paddling and stone skimming!

Along the way, you’ll find out how to squeeze the family into a storm shelter, cook simple food on the go, look at what land you are entitled to access, and learn to recognise key features of the landscape. We’ll provide a brief introduction to map reading and navigation, and explain how to cope with an emergency in the hills. A fun and varied experience for all the family

Learn the skills to conduct covert reconnaissance (including scaling cliffs and abseiling) and live in the wilds whilst avoiding capture. Stay overnight in the woods before your real mission on day two…

This tour is aimed at photographers of all levels of ability and experience, with an opportunity to visit and photograph some of the most iconic and evocative locations in the Peak District National Park. Subjects include the Magpie Mine, a lead mine which was closed in the 1950's, standing in beautiful countryside. The mine is said to be haunted and the subject of a curse! Don't worry, though, we will be staying on the outside! Monsal Head, with views of the famous viaduct striding across Monsal Dale, where we can descend to the old railway line to explore the Headstone tunnel. Derwent Dam, which is a historic location famed for its links to the Dambusters, set in a beautiful valley. Mam Tor, the "shivering mountain" with its wonderful views across Hope Valley and the Vale of Edale and the "broken road" and Cave Dale, a beautiful limestone valley beneath Peveril Castle in Castleton.

If you're already confident with the basics of map reading, this 2 day map and compass navigation skills courses takes you through the next steps: teaching essential compass work to allow the walker to explore ground away from footpaths and tracks.

On completion of this course participants should be able to plan and follow walks in the countryside that venture beyond paths and tracks.

• Topics covered include:
• Navigating using ‘coarse’ and ‘fine’ features
• Navigational strategies: aiming off, attack points, collecting features
• Understanding of contour features, both large and small, on the map and on the ground
• Judging distance accurately on the map and on the ground
• The planning of a safe walk or route involving walking on a bearing
• Employ simple relocation strategies when lost
• Use of compass to follow accurate bearings
• Understanding of the effects of fatigue, physical discomfort and extreme weather conditions
• Knowledge and application of the Countryside Code

We will visit the wonderful Three Shires Head, where two pack horse bridges mark the boundary between Cheshire, Staffordshire and Derbyshire as several waterfalls complete the tranquil scene. We'll also visit Monsal Dale and the wonderfully named Water-cum-Jolly Dale, where the former mill workings are now a nature reserve below limestone crags.

Padley Gorge is a great place to wander around ancient woodlands and a cascading stream. Whilst Lumsdale Falls is a unique landscape featuring the ruins of old mill buildings which were built in to the steep rocks of the valley and powered by the adjacent waterfalls on the Bentley Brook.

The tour is informal and friendly, with opportunities to stop at the various locations to try out some landscape photography. There will also be an opportunity to enjoy a nice pub lunch at one of the Peak District's great traditional pubs; ideal to discuss photography and post processing techniques.

This tour is an opportunity to enjoy the wilder side of the Peak District, with magnificent views from some unique vantage points; the atmospheric gritstone edges of the Dark Peak.

Higgar tor is a wonderful hilltop where you can wander around the gritstone boulders, with great views across Hathersage Moor and Carl Wark Fort, as well as across to Hope Valley. A short hop away is Millstone Edge where a short walk can bring us to some abandoned millstones. Then a short walk will take us to the amazing views from Stanage Edge itself, the longest and arguably most spectacular of the Peak District's edges.

Baslow Edge offers great views across the villages of Baslow, Curbar and Calver and, occasionally, the opportunity to photograph some friendly highland cattle.

You have been navigating the tracks and trails effectively for some time now and are keen to explore some of the more remote, wild and special corners of the UK. We can give you the skills to venture off-piste and explore the vast swathes of heather clad wilderness that hide some of this island’s best kept secrets. Your world is about to get a whole lot bigger, what will you discover?

A two day practical Peak District Navigation Course focused on advancing your skills to get you out exploring wilder and more remote parts of the UK. Aimed at navigators with experience who want to push away from the paths and tracks, our Intermediate Navigation Course offers a broader insight into more advanced navigation as well as essential skills for safety, planning and kit selection. You'll also cover the effects of weather, how to deal with emergencies and gain a valuable understanding of Britain's upland environment.

Beginning with a brief refresh of the basics we then look to develop effective compass skills including accurately following a bearing, back bearings, attack points and aiming off. We'll also cover practical techniques for holding bearings in poor visibility as well as identifying and negotiating dangerous and difficult terrain. Along the way you'll hone effective relocation strategies in a variety of terrains using compass techniques and contour interpretation.

Created and developed by Cornishman Frank Squibb in the spring of 1994 this is Cornwall’s best and most challenging coast to coast walking route and for experienced walkers.

The Smugglers Way takes you down forgotten drove roads and ancient lanes mixed with testing sections of wild and open moorland walking. Either side of Bodmin Moor deserted, hidden river trails follow stunning and unspoilt forested valleys and pasture as you follow the waters gushing off the high ground and charging down to the sea.

Not everyone has the time to walk a full week on the South West Coastal Path, you may want to fit in a short section of walking within a longer sightseeing holiday or if it’s your first time on a walking break you may want to play it safe and try a taster trip over two or three days.

Encounter Walking can provide this for you! We can operate a short section on any part of the South West Coast Path so if you are particularly interested in one area just contact us and tell us where you want to be and we will come up with the options.

Walk Britain’s most spectacular mountain pass. The 18 mile route through the Lairig Ghru was used by drovers, thieves and soldiers. It cuts right through the heart of the high Cairngorm splendour. From the high point its sides rise sheer for another 1500 ft to 4 of the 5 highest peaks in Britain – awesome scenery and a worthy challenge.

Make the most of your walking holiday from a single base, your home to home while you’re in Pembrokeshire. Turn up, unpack your bags, and unwind in one of our hand-picked B&Bs and hotels. Each one is a gem. The Stay, Relax & Explore option is an ideal choice for self-guided walkers who prefer:

• A single base from which to explore local landscapes and views.
• Shorter walks with the option of being able to go back to the comfort of their room at any time.
• A slower-paced walking experience that offers the opportunity to really get to know their holiday location.
• Going car-free.

We will tailor each day’s walking to your needs. You can choose from half day walks (three to five miles), full day walks (from seven to 12 miles), or a mix of days and half-days.

When you’re planning your holiday it’s also worth adding in a rest day, or half-day. That way you have time to really get to know Pembrokeshire whatever your interests might be, from learning about the area’s distinctive heritage and culture, or sampling the excellent range of local food and drink.

Get in touch now for more details.

The Sandstone Trail walking holiday follows this way marked trail, along the low sandstone ridge from Beacon Hill at Frodsham, through Delamere Forest. From here it goes past Beeston Castle and over the Peckforton Hills to Grindley Brook near Whitchurch on the Shropshire border. The ridge divides the low plains of the River Dee to the west and the River Weaver to the East and has great views over the Cheshire Plain to the Welsh Hills.

The ridge is characterised by rocky sandstone outcrops and wooded areas, finally giving way to rolling farmland towards Whitchurch. Total walking distance is 30 – 35 miles depending on overnight stops. The walk is relatively gentle with some more moderate hilly sections and makes an ideal short walking holiday.

Enjoy a break in the Yorkshire Dales with the walking experts; we have all the ingredients for your perfect self-guided escape. Newfield Hall, in beautiful Malhamdale, is geared to the needs of walkers and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy hearty local food, detailed route notes, and an inspirational location from which to explore this beautiful national park.

Highlights:

• Use our Discovery Point, stocked with maps and walks directions, for exploring the local area
• Head out on any of our walks to discover the varied landscape of the Southern Yorkshire Dales on foot
• Enjoy magnificent views from impressive summits
• Admire green valleys and waterfalls on riverside strolls
• Marvel at the wild landscape of unbroken heather moorland and limestone pavement
• Explore quaint villages and experience the warm Yorkshire hospitality at its best
• Choose a relaxed pace of discovery and get some fresh air in one of England's most beautiful walking areas
• Explore the Yorkshire Dales by bike
• Ride on the Settle to Carlisle railway
• Visit the spa town of Harrogate

This short Two Day Eastbourne Circular walk is ideal if you have limited time. It makes a perfect South Downs Way weekend walking break, incorporating some of the most spectacular scenery on the route.

Take a self-guided walking holiday along the Cleveland Way, a walk of stunning contrasts. Beginning in the old market town of Helmsley, the Cleveland Way traverses the western escarpment of the North York Moors to the coast at Saltburn-by-the-Sea, before following the Cleveland Heritage Coast to the Victorian town of Filey.

While walking through the Moors, the trail traverses woodland, green dales and heather moorland. This section is packed with historic interest, including the iconic White Horse of Kilburn. The coastal section then follows high cliffs, sandy bays and wooded wykes. Picturesque fishing villages pepper the trail, as well as the famous port of Whitby. Overall, the Cleveland Way is an incredible walking trail filled with intrigue and beauty.

There are multiple options on this trail—follow the link or get in touch for more information.

Possibly England's best kept secret, the 73-mile Cumbria Way plots a course from the market town of Ulverston overlooking Morecambe Bay, right through the mountain heart of the Lake District, to Carlisle close to the Solway Firth. The Cumbria Way passes through a remarkable variety of scenery ranging from the ordered pastoral landscapes of its beginnings, the mixed woodland of the lake shores, dramatic peaks in central Lakeland and the wild reaches of the northern Caldbeck fells, before finishing in the historic Cumbrian city of Carlisle.

This short walking break takes in the scenic central section of the Great Glen Way National Trail, travelling 22 miles from Fort Augustus to Drumnadrochit.

Woodland tracks part to deliver the trail onto the shore of Loch Ness, where there are plenty of waterfalls, open views to distant mountains, and the imposing Urquhart Castle to enjoy on the way. Local history and hospitality are abundant throughout the walk, particularly in Invermoriston, as well as at Drumnadrochit where this walking holiday ends.

This tour is perfect for those keen to explore the wonders of the Scottish Highlands within a short space of time. With a wealth of amazing views, mythical history and immersive culture, the Great Glen Way Taster Break boasts something for every walker.

From beautiful limestone valleys, to spectacular scenery on the gritstone edges, the Peak District is home to a superb contrast of landscapes. With a choice of walks each day, your holiday can be as relaxing or adventurous as you choose. Our Guided Walking holidays will introduce you to the best of the national park.

Highlights

• Head out on guided walks with our experienced leader to discover the varied beauty of the Peak District on foot
• Enjoy panoramic views from gritstone edges
• Admire stunning limestone dales
• Visit classic viewpoints, timeless villages and secret corners
• Look out for wildlife and learn about the 'Peaks' history
• A relaxed pace of discovery in a sociable group keen to get some fresh air in one of England's finest walking areas

The Isle of Wight is a world away from the bustle of the mainland. On our Guided Walking holidays you'll discover the best of the island’s glorious 85-mile coastline of unspoilt sandy beaches and dramatic white cliffs, as well as panoramic walks over the flower-rich chalk downland.

Highlights

• Head out on guided walks with an experienced leader to discover the varied beauty of the Isle of Wight on foot.
• Admire panoramic views from dramatic cliff top coastal paths or along the lush Undercliff.
• Visit enchanting villages and beautiful unspoilt beaches.
• Look out for wildlife, find secret corners and learn about the Island's history
• A relaxed pace of discovery in a sociable group keen to get some fresh air away from the hustle and bustle of the mainland
• Evenings in our country house where you share a drink and re-live the day’s adventures

St Davids to St Dogmaels. Approx. 60 miles.

The crescendo at the end of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, this is wild, wild and wilder walking as you head north around a series of high volcanic headlands sitting above almost inaccessible coves and inlets. A run of tiny coastal hamlets clinging to this boulder strewn cliff run is broken up by the welcome facilities and shelter of two historically significant towns at Newport and Fishguard Then a final push around one of the most remote sections of the Wales Coast Path at Cemaes Head to emerge into the golden sands and shelter of the beautiful Teifi Estuary and a return to habitation at St Dogmaels and Cardigan.

The 84-mile Hadrian's Wall path is a superb Roman coast-to-coast walk. Stretching from the mouth of the Tyne in the east to the Solway Firth in the west, the Hadrian's Wall path follows the greatest relic from the Roman occupation of Britain which lasted 400 years. During a walk along the Wall you will pass the sites or remains of the 16 Wall Forts, plus numerous milecastles and turrets, plus original and partly restored sections of Hadrian's Wall itself. The wall can be walked in either direction, and in a variety of lengths and durations.

Deep in the Berwyn hill range, tucked away in the Ceiriog valley, lies a tiny village and in the tiny village lies a traditional Welsh inn, with cosy log fires, local ale and delicious locally-sourced food. Discover the Welsh feeling of cwtch when you escape to your bolthole from the city and discover a sense of mindfulness on a guided walk through the wild landscape.

This two night break is perfect if you’re looking to unplug from the rush of everyday life. Escape to a quieter, slower pace of life and spend time indulging your own well-being. Your mindfulness and walking guide will lead you through the beautifully wild Berwyn hills, using each of your senses to explore the surrounding countryside and immerse yourself into the season.

Blessed with breathtakingly beautiful beaches, Cornwall has more miles of coastline and more hours of sunshine than anywhere else in England. On a Guided Walking holiday at St Ives you'll discover the fantastic coastal path in all glory, from hidden coves to rugged headlands.

Highlights

• Our guided walks will take you to rugged granite headlands and glorious sandy beaches
• Also exploring off the beaten track to peaceful corners, hidden coves and sleepy fishing villages
• Let our leaders bring classic routes and offbeat areas to life
• Enjoy evenings in Chy Morvah where you can share a drink and re-live the days adventures

If you haven’t got time to do the whole of the South Downs Way, this Winchester to Amberley route is ideal to do over a long weekend. It will give you a good taster and you’ll definitely want to come back to complete the rest of the South Downs Way! The first 2 days are both long so you’ll need to bit fit and used to walking long distances.

This break is ideal for those seeking a short getaway in the Welsh countryside. Beginning at Llanidloes, the trail encounters a mixture of woodland, farmland and open moorland, and visits a number of historic landmarks such as the old lead mines at the foot of Llyn Clywedog.

The valleys and hilltops on this walk offer fine viewpoints at which to take in the gorgeous scenery, with some areas offering views as far as southern Snowdonia.

The settlements along the way are also worth exploring, such as Machynlleth and the walk's finishing point of Llanbrynmair, along with plenty of other charming little villages and hamlets.