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Our 50 favourite walks - from the OS Team
OS Team • Walking • Apr 30, 2021 • 20 min read
Here at Ordnance Survey, we live and breathe the outdoors. We rallied up our keenest walkers to share their expertise and tell us about some of their favourite walks.
From a stroll in the park, spectacular hillside views or a city walk, we’ve got walks for everyone. So, if you’re looking to escape the crowds and discover fantastic new routes across Great Britain, then look no further.
Find them on the map
The big routes list
1Mynydd Drws Y Coed - Snowdonia by Lara — 12.4km (7.7 miles)
A challenging but hugely rewarding walk, passing two beautiful lakes, trundling on forestry track and beautiful views from the sloping ridge of Mynydd Drws Y Coed. The parking is free and there is an optional scramble (path runs below for those not interested)!
2East Downs - Isle of Wight by Jonathan — 11.8km (7.4 miles)
Explore the rolling East Downs on the Isle of Wight in this circular walk from Brading. You'll cross open fields, meander through ancient woods, pass prehistoric tumuli and find a hill taken over by rabbits! The route is mostly on footpaths, but contains some road sections.
3QE Park day walk - Hampshire by Helen — 19.3km (12 miles)
This full day walk takes you through some of Hampshire's finest countryside. Start at Queen Elizabeth Country Park (or park for free on the nearby A3 lay-by) and gently ascend on to the South Downs Way. Marvel at the views below as you gradually descend past the impressive Ditchem Park School. Have a peek inside the quaint St Hubert’s (Idsworth) Church before exploring the spectacular Cheriton Downs. On route, look out for homemade flapjacks (cash) outside a house just past Buriton car park!
4Camel Trail - North Cornwall by Perky — 27.8km (17.2 miles)
This route is actually a Sustrans cycle route in OS Maps but we opted for two feet instead of two wheels. This route offers picturesque views of the river Camel and a flat, well surfaced path making it perfect for walkers of all abilities. I would recommend walking from Wadebridge to Padstow so you can enjoy Rick Stein's famous fish and chips at the end of your walk! Once you get to Padstow or Wadebridge you can take the hourly 25 minute bus service back to where you started.
5Edmondsham Stroll - Dorset by Michelle — 9.5km (6 miles)
A lovely walk through Cranborne Chase starting with Boys Wood where you can find bluebells in spring and visiting the village of Edmondsham on the way. Woodland and field paths mostly but can get very muddy in the depths of winter - wear wellies!
6Andrew's Mare loop - New Forest by Liz — 10km (6.3 miles)
Open heathland, clear wide paths, dropping down to a path that meanders through woodland. Great walk for wildlife spotting and views across to the Isle of Wight on a clear day. Elevation varied, with a steep climb towards the end but views are worth it!
7Goatfell - Corrie to Brodick - Isle of Arran: by Tom — 9.3km (5.8 miles)
Hike up to the highest peak on the Isle of Arran, with stunning views across the island, the sea and over to the Scottish mainland (Northern Ireland and the Lake District are visible on clear days!). Start the route in the idyllic seaside village of Corrie, climbing up to the summit at over 2,800ft and then back down to past Brodick Castle to the end point. It's just a quick trip back on the local bus to link the end and start points.
8Llyn y Fan Fach & Llyn y Fan Fawr - Brecon Beacons by Emily — 15.2km (9.4 miles)
One of the most stunning views in the Brecon Beacons. If you want that Mountain 'wow' factor of sheer descent down onto beautiful tarns, then this is your route. Two amazing tarns and some of the highest points in the Brecons, this route will stay with you long after you get home. It's quite remote so you need to prepare with enough food and water but is so worth it for the incredible views.
Isle of Wight - Walk #2
Snowdonia - Walk #1
9Uffington White Horse - Oxfordshire by Daisy — 8.2km (4.9 miles)
There is small car park just off the road to start your adventure. Walk along the ridgeway finishing at the Uffington White Horse with stunning views over the Oxfordshire countryside - it is a perfect spot for a picnic!
10Devil's Pulpit - Gloucestershire by Laura — 7.5km (4.6 miles)
Explore the Offa's Dyke Path, a great earthwork boundary dyk built along the Anglo-Welsh border by Offa, King of Mercia, probably during the 780's. Look over the magnificent ruins of Tintern Abbey from the Devil's Pulpit, with views down the River Wye, and visit Chase Farm for some homemade ice cream. There's free parking available at the Offa's Dyke Car Park and a good range of other facilities available in nearby Chepstow.
11Bodiam Castle & Great Wigsell - Kent by Helen — 13km (8 miles)
A lovely walk in the gentle rolling countryside with plenty to see. Farmland with fields full of hay bales, horses, wildflowers, vineyards, houses and castles. Kent is known for its Oast houses and you’ll pass plenty. The beautiful Great Wigsell House is Jacobean and steeped in history. Bodiam Castle is also very pretty. There are a few stiles to negotiate and The Castle Inn pub is on route
12The Tolkien Trail - The Tolkien Trail by Tim — 10.4km (6.5 miles)
Whether or not this area, frequented by Tolkien, was the inspiration for the landscapes of The Lord of the Rings doesn't really matter: it's a delightful loop which takes you through woodland, fields and along the banks of the Rivers Hodder and Ribble. Round the walk off perfectly with a drink at the Shireburn Arms overlooking the Ribble Valley.
13Bourton loop - The Cotswolds by Gemma — 7.9km (4.9 miles)
The tree lined start to this walk will make you feel like you're in Narnia. This is a great circular route if you're visiting the beautiful town of Bourton-on-the-Water that takes you through beautiful Cotswold countryside and farmland. There is plenty of options to shorten or lengthen the walk and you can recuperate with a cream tea in one of the many tea rooms!
14Lynmouth & Watersmeet - Devon by Matt — 12km (7.5 miles)
You'll pass steep river gorges, ancient oak woodland and waterfalls on this fantastic walk. On route there is an optional pub stop and National Trust tea room.
15Ashes Valley - Shropshire by Amanda — 11km (6.8 miles)
This is a great circular walk, starting from Church Stretton. heading clockwise the route climbs up the picturesque Ashes Valley following the stream to the top of the Longmynd. Amazing views across the Church Stretton valley and the volcanic range of hills - Caer Caradoc etc. Highly recommended.
16Heasley Mill loop - Devon by Mandy — 12.3km (7.7 miles)
Park by Riverside Park caravan park further down the lane. This walk takes in the amazing wildlife and fauna of North Devon. Follow the track up to East Marsh Farm where you'll head across the fields. Follow the River Mole upstream through bluebell woods (in spring) to the historic mining village of North Molton. Here, you can refuel and refresh at the Poltimore Inn. You can continue to the picturesque village of Heasley Mill before heading south through the most beautiful valley following the river downhill back into North Molton, then follow the footpath towards South Molton
Kent - Walk #11
Kent - Walk #11
17Hengistbury Head walk - Dorset by Louis — 10.4km (6.4 miles)
Tranquil scenes and fresh ocean breeze. This is a wonderful walk along the coastline and a slight incline up Hengistbury Head, taking in views of Southbourne beach and the River Stour. A lovely circular walk, with useful amenities such as car park, toilets, places to eat, nearby.
18Hartington to Ilam walk - Peak District by Andrew — 14km (8.6 miles)
A long time since I last ventured this way but some of my favourite childhood memories were created along this route and revisiting as an adult has not diminished my thorough enjoyment of the wonderful sights and sounds. Starting at Ilam in Derbyshire and wandering down to Thorpe you are presented with a child’s dream of ‘proper’ stepping stones across the River Dove as you begin to wander through Dovedale alongside the water. As you go, you’re given paradise - like views of Thorpe cloud and Bunster hill and a myriad escarpments rising from and reflecting in babbling river. Full of caves, hanging branches and so much wildlife, this walk of about 10 miles, on a summer’s day, takes you far further away from the everyday. Need to go back soon!
19Woolpack route - Lake District by Maddi — 3km (1.9 miles)
A there and back route from the Woolpack Inn (great for a pint!) This is a nice easy hill walk with fantastic views. Please note, this route is made much more difficult in or after heavy rain!
20Sand Point loop - Somerset by Jen — 8.3km (5.1 miles)
Sand Point is an extension of the Mendip Hills made of limestone with views great views across the Bristol Channel to Wales. The route has lots of great spots for a picnic and lots of wildlife and archaeological features to explore. Please note, this route has a large number of steps and/or uneven uphill tracks.
21Maiden Castle walk - Dorset by Gus — 10.3km (6.4 miles)
A walk starting from Dorchester train station next to a Roman amphitheatre. It will take you to Maiden Castle a celtic hillfort that will give you views across the ridgeway, Dorchester and over to Hardy's monument. The route back takes you through Poundbury and gives you the opportunity to stop at the excellent town museums.
22 River Tyne walk - Northumberland by Debbie — 0.8km (0.5 miles)
Just a 15 minute walk from the centre of Hexham, on the south bank of the river Tyne is Tyne Green Country Park. The land, which was presented to the people by Lord Allendale in1887 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Jubilee covers 19 hectares, which includes the golf course. This country park is great for families as there it is a large green open space for – perfect for picnics and family fun, with the added bonus of a huge playground with climbing frames and zipwire.
23Leeds Owl Trail - Yorkshire by Debbie — 1.6km (2 miles)
The owls first appeared on the Leeds coat of arms around 1660. The owls were taken from the coat of arms of Sir John Savile who was the first Alderman of Leeds. The full owl trail takes in 25 owls which are located in different places around Leeds. It is about 2 miles long and takes about 2 hours to do it properly.
24Fan Gyhirych - Brecon Beacons by Rebecca — 16km (9.9 miles)
A strenuous but wonderful route for walkers seeking to get away from the honey pot crowds. One of the quieter Beacons, Gyhirych has glorious views over Crai Reservoir, as well as the Black Mountain west and Pen y Fan and Corn Du to the east. Mainly on a wide gravel track, the route veers over springy (and often boggy) ground to reach the trigpoint, before dipping through an enchanted forest (you may even see a deer!). Follow Adelina Patti's tramroad back to the A4067 and Pont Gyhirych. Note: if you have the energy for an extra couple of miles, a detour to Fan Nedd before bagging Gyhirych is well worth the effort.
Hertfordshire - Walk #21
Yorkshire - Walk #22
25Cleeve Hill and Breakheart Plantation - Cotswolds by Zoe — 10km (6 miles)
A beautiful walk taking in the best bits of Cleeve Hill, the highest point in the Cotswolds, along with the beautiful steep sided woodland of Breakheart Plantation. Making use of the Cotswold Way and Winchcombe Way, taking in two trig pillars, there's some amazing views (into Wales on a good day) and plenty of historical interest in this short six mile bimble.
26Back of Twmpa walk - Wales by Eli — 10km (6 miles)
A tranquil and relaxed walk from Capel-y-ffin up the valley behind Twmpa and on to the summit of this little-known mountain. Taking in spectacular views with plenty of peaceful spots to stop by waterfalls and a tumbling stream. The ridge walk affords views towards Pen-y-fan and over to Hay-on-Wye, perfect for a visit and bimble in the book shops afterwards.
27Torquay Harbour walk - Devon by Fi (fidarby.co.uk) — 3.5km (2.2 miles)
This linear walk takes you along the seafront from Torquay town then inland to the picture-perfect village of Cockington. Wander past boats, beaches, and beautiful thatched cottages. Then finish off with a cream tea (cream first!) at Cockington Manor. Everything you would expect from a Devon holiday in one glorious stroll.
28The Derwent Valley, Wyver and the Port Way - Derbyshire by Nigel — 11.9km (7.4 miles)
A circular walk through the World Heritage Site of the Derwent Valley, encompassing the Pre-historic Portway, Three Coaching Inns and the River Derwent itself.
29Holy Island secrets - Northumberland by Dave — 8km (5 miles)
A walk to discover one of the most unique places in Britain - The Holy Island of Lindisfarne. This historic island is accessed by a tidal causeway (check tide times) and is rich with history, heritage and nature. Explore the shops & cafes around the village green, visit the ancient priory and castle, or just relax on the coast to the sounds of Grey Seals singing.
30Thorney Island loop - West Sussex by Helen — 11.8km (7.3 miles)
This is a lovely walk, especially at sunset, as there is plenty of wildlife around the island. It comes alive with bird song! You can also spot seals out at sea or on the shore too. Thorney Island belongs to the military and access is sometimes restricted but this is rare. You will have to pass two big gates though but just press the buzzer and you will be let through. Interesting church on route. Park in the Marina car park and visit The Deck for food – it’s great!
31Milldale to Dovdale - Peak District by Zoe — 8km (5 miles)
A fantastic cave exploring route along the river Dove. With free parking at Milldale, Polly's ice-cream shop and toilets, this route is perfect for a long day out exploring with the kids. Best done as a linear walk, as you can jump back in and out of the caves on the way back, this route has many obstacles for all ages and abilities. Smaller caves to crawl in and out of, and higher ones to climb up to. You can choose to walk all the way to Dovedale stepping stones and have a paddle in the water while sitting with a picnic.
32Nidderdale loop - Yorkshire by Sarah — 12.4km (7.7 miles)
A lovely 12km loop in the lesser known Nidderdale. Starting from the high village of Middlesmoor, you leave the village climbing along open moorland with views of Little and Great Whernside. You descend into Scar House reservoir, with an imposing dam, toilets, a car park and a fascinating history. You then follow the old railway road for a bit, before crossing a stream and winding through some pretty dales farms before you enter the village of Lofthouse, where the pub does excellent food and great beer. A short but steep walk up through the fields takes you back to Middlesmoor and another pub should you need it!
Scottish Highlands - Walk #34
Scottish Highlands - Walk #34
33Pub route - New Forest by Lauren — 11km (6.8 miles)
A fairly leisurely walk through the New Forest that happens to take in four pubs, so you can press on and do it all in one go, or take advantage and stop at them all! Starting at the Filly Inn, moving on to the Fleur de Lys in Pilley, the Red Lion at Boldre to Rosie Lea Tea Rooms & Bakery (Was previously the Hobler Inn). A combination of grassy lanes, a little bit of road walking and paths in the New Forest. This is a perfect walk for a lazy(ish) summer afternoon walk with plenty of stops!
34Shieldaig Peninsula walk - Scottish Highlands by Charlotte — 5.1km (3.2 miles)
A stunning walk around the An Aird peninsula along the shores of Loch Torridon. Start your walk in one of the most picturesque villages in the Highlands, Shieldaig. Come across shingle beaches, copses of birch, heather moor and see cliffs, cliff caves and fossil cliffs. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled for otters, herons and porpoises.
35Merthyr Mawr loop - South Wales by Lauren — 6.8km (4.2 miles)
A fabulous walk in Wales, taking in forest and riverside walks. There are some beautiful bridges, including some awesome stepping stones to cross the river at one point. During this part of the walk, a herd of horses decided to show us how it was done! By the stepping stones is Ogmore Castle - the remains of a Norman Castle, and if you're up for it there is a riding stable in the area that will take you and the horses down river to the beach! For refreshments, there's the Watermill Pub close by too.
36East Stratton loop - Hampshire by Lauren — 10.2km (6.3 miles)
Starting and finishing at the Northbrook Arms (they do amazing Sunday Roasts), this walk takes you through fields and forest, and is perfect for wearing out doggy companions. The first couple of fields do not have livestock, so it is reasonably safe to let your dogs off-lead (make sure you've got good recall though, just to be on the safe side)! You will pass farmland around the middle of the walk with livestock, so please be careful with dogs at that point) It can get a little wet underfoot as it is mainly fields to begin with and then tracks in the forest (no gravel etc). However this is a favourite winter walk as the air is crisp, and the mud can make it fun! One or two hills to contend with, but a nice route
37Glasgow Mural Trail - Scotland by Eddie — 9.3km (5.8 miles)
The Glasgow Mural Trail is a great way to explore the city. Glasgow has a wonderful selection of murals which decorate blank walls and empty buildings turning them into a work of art. This walk visits a number of these beautiful creations in the city centre and makes for an exciting walk through urban streets. The murals change from time to time with new ones being added.
38The Royal Parks - London by Alexei — 11.1km (6.9 miles)
Starting off in cosmopolitan Notting Hill, one of London's most vibrant and desirable neighbourhoods, embark on a relaxed market-to-market walk via no less than four of London's Royal Parks. As with any city walk, there’s lots to see along the way with building rich with history and plenty of places to stop off for a coffee.
39Being Bhuidhe Bheag Loop - Scottish Highlands by Jonathan — 9.9km (6.2 miles)
A circular walk up to the top of this 462m hill just outside Inverness, with views to the Moray Firth (on a clear day!) While not particularly strenuous, there are some steep and uneven slopes to deal with. There's limited free parking in a lay-by at the start of the walk. Stop off at the nearby Culloden Battlefield visitors centre to learn about this critical part of Scottish history - or just for a cake.
40Ipswich Marina walk - Suffolk by Charlotte — 4.6km (2.8 miles)
Take in Ipswich Marina in all its glory, from the quaint cafes to the impressive wall murals there's plenty for the whole family to enjoy. This route takes you through Holywells, a beautiful open space, with stunning trees and ponds, extending over 28 hectares of picturesque grounds, with a history dating back to medieval times.
Aberdeenshire - Walk #43
Aberdeenshire - Walk #43
41Abney Moor from Hathersage - Peak District by Jon — 16.4km (10.2 miles)
A great walk on the quieter side of the Hope Valley. Hathersage railway station is accessible from Sheffield or Manchester. The walk climbs Sir William Hill, overlooking the plague village of Eyam with fantastic views over both the White and Dark Peak, before looping around the head of Abney valley, past the gliding club and over Abney Moor before descending back into the Hope valley. The route is a variety of byways, quiet roads and footpaths over the moors. The Barrel Inn (the highest pub in Derbyshire is on the route after about 6 km, and the Plough Inn is close to the start/finish.
42Steek Knotts walk - Cumbria by Craig — 6km (3.7 miles)
Starting at Howtown on the shores of Ullswater in The Lake District National Park. You have a spectacular ridge called Steel Knotts peering up and out of the valley. Due to the remote location and having a dead-end valley it is absolutely a hidden gem being very quiet. In fact, even on a busy day you are unlikely to see people on this route. The small fell looks quite steep (however I have been walked up it with my daughter who is 6 and she was perfectly fine). From the summit you can either drop down left into Fusedale (a remote beautiful valley) or descend right into Martindale coming back via the Old Church of St Martin.
43Torry Coast from Union Square - Aberdeenshire by Kim — 4.1km (0.8 miles)
A fantastic coastal walk to get away from all the hustle and bustle of the city. For this route we used an all terrain wheelchair and so stayed on the single track road. A place to take your binoculars and keep an eye out for dolphins. Watch the ships coming and going from the harbour or soak up Aberdeen history and explore the old battery. You can leave the road and walk closer to the shore but this is accessed via steps.
44Beda Head and Beda Fell - Cumbria by Craig — 7.2km (4.5 miles)
Beda Head and Beda Fell: Starting in Martindale Common this is a stunning walk for all the family with easy terrain and spectacular views of the Northern fells. From the Church St Martins 'old' Church in Martindale, you head off towards the obvious spur on Winter crag, you then make your way up and along the gentle ridge. As you come down Beda Fell look out for wild Deer (with a Deer sanctuary on the Nab). Turn left and descend into Martindale following the valley bottom back to your car.
45Countryside walk - Hertfordshire by Helen — 7.3km (7 miles)
This beautiful circular walk through Hertfordshire’s countryside takes in quaint villages, magical woodlands and stunning views. Much of the route follows paths through field which are easy underfoot. You’ll pass country houses and a historic church. Call in at the Grandison Arms in Bramfield or the Rose and Crown in Tewin for refreshments.
46Chiltern villages walk - Buckinghamshire by Felicity — 5.6km (3.5 miles)
This dog-friendly walk takes in a handful of attractive Chiltern villages and three lovely pubs. Stroll through woodland and ascend over gentle hills where you’ll be rewarded with fine views. Find decent food and drink at the three pubs and try this walk in all seasons – it’s a great route to enjoy year round.
47Blean Woodland walk - Kent by Jenny — 7.5km (4.6 miles)
This area of woodland spans for miles and not many out-of-towners know it exists. There are some great trails in the Blean woodlands, and this route is particularly nice. This wood takes you through quiet, peaceful woodland to the Blean Wood Nature Reserve. Look out for wildlife – don’t forget your binoculars and a picnic!
48Limestone and villages - Yorkshire by Steve — 10.8km (6.7 miles)
This walk in the impressive Yorkshire dales takes in two beautiful waterfalls and a lovely church. There are three quaint villages on this route with two having pubs - Staniforth and Settle. The best bit about this walk is the stunning limestone scenery.
49Beautiful bovvy walk - Scotland by Geoff — 11.8km (7.4 miles)
A circular walk through the rolling fells above Nithsdale in the southern Lowther Hills. The best thing about this walk is the small bothy of Kettleton Byre where you can stay the night if you wish.
50Pin Mill stroll - Suffolk by Charlotte — 3.6km (2.3 miles)
Take in some of Suffolk's stunning coast through the Pin Cliff Plantation. This circular walk takes in woods, open farmland and sandy shorelines. To start the walk head down to the shore and take in the stunning views over the River Orwell, you may have to do a little detour to keep your feet dry depending on the tide.
Published: Apr 30, 2021 Edited: Jan 05, 2024
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