From frozen waterfalls to gentle frosty rambles with picture-perfect views, this selection of wonderful winter walks in the UK will certainly put a spring in your step. Whether you’re looking for accessible adventures for the whole family, or something more challenging for the budding mountaineer within, these well-trodden routes have something for everyone.
Discover Pendle Witches Way
48 miles
From: Sabden, Lancashire via Ribble Valley and Forest of Bowland to Lancaster
This long-distance walking route links the slopes of Pendle Hill and the beautiful villages surrounding it. Apart from being rather apt for this time of year, this course is also a beautiful one. With the Forests of Pendle and Bowland enchanting ramblers along the way, it’s definitely a crowd favourite. And afterward, you might want to pop into Pendle and learn about the history of the Pendle witches.
Nearby YHA: YHA Mankinholes
Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Bath Skyline
6 miles
Circular: Bathwick Hall
Beginning at Bathwick Hill, this 6-mile/3-hour winter walk in the UK is one of the National Trust’s most popular routes – and it’s little wonder why when you consider the spectacular views on offer.
One of Britain’s most historical and beautiful cities is all laid out beneath you. It’s a great way to get acquainted with architectural splendours from across the ages – from Iron Age hill forts to 18th-century folly. Plus, the hidden valleys, woodlands and meadows encountered along the way are teeming with a variety of British wildlife, so don’t forget your binoculars and camera!
Nearby YHA: YHA Bath
Walks around Waterfall Country
Around: Forest Fawr Geopark, Brecon Beacons, Wales
Accessible and with winter walking routes aplenty, the Brecon Beacons National Park provides an easier alternative to the wild mountain tops found at Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri (Snowdonia) at this time of year, and with a little rainfall (which we’re all but guaranteed) Waterfall country will be one of the most breath-taking places to be.
Pounding torrents spill from on high in the steep, tree-lined gorges of the Fforest Fawr Geopark. There are many routes to choose from, with a good path network and almost all the higher ground is open access countryside.
Nearby YHA: YHA Brecon Beacons
Miles without stiles in the Lake District
1.8 miles
Circular: Tarn Hows Car Park, Ambleside
Finally, to the most accessible winter walk on our list, a level circular route around the three mountain pools of Tarn Hows. As to what makes it a great winter route, well this is one of Lakeland’s most popular spots. If you visit in the colder months, you can more easily avoid the crowds. Plus, when the water freezes and the surrounding hills are dusted with snow, it’s a sight to set spirits soaring. If the lake is frozen, skim some stones across the surface to hear the ice sing!
Simply drive up, park up, and enjoy a stroll that offers the most magnificent views of the Lake District’s mountains for minimal effort. The perfect ramble for even the littlest of legs.
Nearby YHA: YHA Ambleside
Discover winter breaks with YHA.
Photo credit: 365_visiuals / Joel / Ian Woolcock / salarko / LambdaPhotography / Adobe Stock
