If you’re thinking where to go for a walking holiday in the UK, we’ve got your back and don’t worry, you’re spoiled for choice. From rugged mountains and wild moorland to rolling countryside and chocolate‑box villages, the UK offers some of the most varied and rewarding walking landscapes anywhere in Europe. Whether you’re after gentle rambles, long‑distance trails or full days out in the hills, these four regions stand out as the very best places to go walking in England.

Below are our top picks — each with its own character, scenery and must‑do routes.

1. Lake District – England’s Mountain Playground

• Lake District adventures

The Lake District is the UK’s most iconic walking destination, and for good reason. Home to England’s highest peaks, shimmering lakes and dramatic ridgelines, it’s a paradise for walkers of all levels.

Why go:

• Classic fell walks like Helvellyn, Scafell Pike and Catbells
• Stunning lakeside paths around Derwentwater, Ullswater and Windermere
• Cosy pubs, scenic villages and endless viewpoints
• Perfect for both short breaks and full walking holidays

Best for: Mountain lovers, ridge walkers, big views, and anyone wanting the UK’s most famous walking experience.

2. Peak District – Wild Moorland & Limestone Valleys

• Peak District adventures

The Peak District offers a brilliant mix of rugged gritstone edges in the north and peaceful rolling dales in the south. It’s one of the easiest national parks to reach from anywhere in the UK, making it ideal for a weekend walking escape.

Why go:

• Iconic routes like Mam Tor, Kinder Scout and Stanage Edge
• Gentle riverside walks through Dovedale and Monsal Dale
• A huge variety of terrain in a compact area
• Great for families, beginners and seasoned hikers alike

Best for: Accessible adventures, dramatic edges, and classic English countryside.

3. The Cotswolds – Rolling Hills & Storybook Villages

• Cotswolds adventures

If you want a walking holiday filled with charm, scenery and slower‑paced routes, the Cotswolds is unbeatable. Think golden‑stone villages, peaceful hills, woodland trails and some of the prettiest footpaths in England.

Why go:

• The Cotswold Way National Trail (102 miles)
• Beautiful villages like Broadway, Bourton‑on‑the‑Water and Painswick
• Gentle, scenic walking with plenty of places to stop
• Perfect for relaxed multi‑day trips

Best for: Easygoing walking holidays, couples’ trips, and anyone who loves classic English landscapes.

4. Yorkshire – Coast, Moors & Dales in One Region

• Yorkshire adventures

Yorkshire is a dream for walkers thanks to its incredible variety. You’ve got the rugged Yorkshire Dales, the wild North York Moors, and a dramatic coastline packed with clifftop paths and historic fishing towns.

Why go:

• Famous routes like Malham Cove, Ingleborough and Roseberry Topping
• The Cleveland Way and Yorkshire Wolds Way
• Stunning coastal walking between Whitby, Robin Hood’s Bay and Staithes
• Endless choice for both short and long walking holidays

Best for: Variety — mountains, moors, coast and countryside all in one place.

Final Thoughts

Whether you want mountain summits, peaceful countryside or coastal trails, the UK has a walking destination for every style of holiday. The Lake District brings the drama, the Peak District offers accessible adventure, the Cotswolds delivers charm, and Yorkshire gives you a bit of everything.

If you’re planning your next walking break, these four regions are the perfect place to start.

If you like what I do, please leave us a Google review by following this link  https://g.page/r/CfXH5X8XxFdaEBk/review

FAQ’s

Explore More UK Walks & Road Trips

Days Out Now is packed with guides to help you plan your next adventure — from short scenic walks to full multi‑day routes and road trips across the UK and Europe.

👉 Want to explore somewhere new?

• Lake District adventures
• Peak District adventures
• Scottish adventures
• Welsh adventures
• Cornish adventures
• Cotswolds adventures