From frozen waterfalls, miles of icicles, misty morning forest strolls, 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, something to keep the little ones entertained, or something more challenging for the budding mountaineer within, these well-trodden routes will kickstart your wanderlust and get you planning that perfect winter wander.
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 with the beautiful valleys and villages surrounding it. Apart from being rather apt for this time of year, this course is also a beautiful one with breathtaking views around every corner. With the Forests of Pendle and Bowland enchanting ramblers along the way, it’s cemented it’s place as a firm favourite. After your vigorous winter ramble across the top of Pendle Hill, you might want to pop into Pendle and Barley and learn about the history of the Pendle Witch Trials, or visit one of the local pubs for some hearty grub and a few drinks to warm your cockles after a chilly day on the tops.
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 of the historic rolling countryside and beautiful cityscape of Bath.
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! If you happen to catch any particularly fantastic shots, remember to tag #YHANatureChallenge when uploading them onto social media for a chance to feature on our socials!
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 and snow melt (which we’re all but guaranteed) Waterfall country will be one of the most breath-taking places to be. Remember to layer up to keep yourself warm, and it’s probably worth bringing a change of socks!
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. Sit and listen for a while, or head out along the endless trails to discover what just may be around the corner.
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; for good reason too. 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 tarn is frozen, skim some stones across the surface to hear the ice sing! Remember to pack some ice spikes or crampons to keep yourself steady if the temperature drops, and take up a warm drink in a flask so you can stop to admire the view for a short while without catching too much of a chill.
Simply drive up, park up, and enjoy a stroll that offers some of the most magnificent views of the Lake District’s mountains for a fairly minimal effort. The perfect ramble for even the littlest of legs.
Nearby YHA: YHA Ambleside
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Photo credit: 365_visiuals / Joel / Ian Woolcock / salarko / LambdaPhotography / Adobe Stock
