The 10 Best Hikes in the UK

The UK might be a small island, but it packs in some of the most dramatic hiking landscapes anywhere in the world. From Scotland’s mist-shrouded Munros to rugged Welsh ridges and Cornish coastlines, there’s a hike here for every mood — whether you want your heart racing from exposure or your camera filled with once-in-a-lifetime views.

And if you’re wondering whether these trails live up to the hype? They do. In fact, if you’re planning your next adventure, these ten hikes are among the very best the UK has to offer.

1. Helvellyn via Striding Edge (Lake District, England)

Why go: This is the UK’s most famous ridge walk, and for good reason. Striding Edge is a jagged spine of rock leading to Helvellyn’s wide summit plateau, delivering mountain drama without technical climbing gear.

Distance/Time: 8–10 miles; 6–7 hours (classic Glenridding loop).

Difficulty: Challenging — exposed ridge with hands-on scrambling.

The approach from Glenridding builds steadily before exploding into the “wow” moment: Striding Edge. Walk the crest if you’re confident; bypass paths are available if exposure unnerves you. Descend via Swirral Edge for a second ridge, or choose Whiteside for a softer finish.

Best time: Summer or early autumn for safe conditions. Winter requires full mountaineering kit.

2. Scafell Pike via the Corridor Route (Lake District, England)

Why go: England’s highest peak deserves more than a trudge. The Corridor Route offers balcony paths, rocky scrambles, and stunning hanging valleys — all without the motorway feel of the tourist path.

Distance/Time: 8.5–10 miles; 6–8 hours from Seathwaite.

Difficulty: Challenging; rocky, with ankle-testing descents.

Climb via Sty Head, then trace the famous “corridor” under looming crags before topping out at England’s roof. Descend through Esk House for a quieter loop.

Best time: Any clear day outside winter. Rocks polish easily — watch your footing.

3. Ben Nevis by the Mountain Track (Highlands, Scotland)

Why go: At 1,345m, Ben Nevis is the UK’s highest mountain and a rite of passage. The “Mountain Path” is steady but relentless, zigzagging to the vast summit plateau.

Distance/Time: 10.5 miles; 7–9 hours.

Difficulty: Strenuous — relentless climb, navigation critical in mist.

Start from Glen Nevis Visitor Centre. The switchbacks are forgiving at first, but the final boulder field is punishing. On a clear day, the Highland views are unmatched.

Best time: Late May–September. Weather flips quickly — pack warm kit and a solid navigation plan.

4. Yr Wyddfa / Snowdon (Wales) — Pyg Track up, Miners’ Track down

Why go: Wales’s highest mountain is always busy, but this combo gives the best experience: steep, scenic ascent via the Pyg Track, and a gentle descent by shimmering lakes on the Miners’ Track.

Distance/Time: 7.5 miles; ~5 hours.

Difficulty: Moderate-challenging.

From Pen-y-Pass, climb steadily with the summit cone dominating the skyline. On descent, stroll beside turquoise waters of Llyn Glaslyn and Llyn Llydaw — pure postcard beauty.

Best time: Outside midday crowds. Parking at Pen-y-Pass is limited; pre-book or shuttle from Llanberis.

5. The Quiraing Circuit (Isle of Skye, Scotland)

Why go: Fantasy landscapes sculpted by landslip — jagged towers, tilted cliffs, and views to the sea. Every step is a photo-op.

Distance/Time: ~6.5 km; 2–4 hours.

Difficulty: Moderate.

A lollipop loop passes The Needle and The Prison rock formations, before returning over exposed moorland. Weather changes in minutes here, so come prepared.

Best time: Dawn or dusk light makes it magical.

6. Pen y Fan Horseshoe (Bannau Brycheiniog, Wales)

Why go: Skip the motorway path. The horseshoe gives you Corn Du, Pen y Fan, Cribyn, and optionally Fan y Big — a full mountain day.

Distance/Time: 9–16 km; 4–7 hours.

Difficulty: Moderate-challenging.

Starting near Neuadd Reservoir, you’ll climb onto the airy rim, crest the peaks, and enjoy dramatic corrie scenery. Add Fan y Big for the famous “diving board” photo.

Best time: Any season — but expect fast-changing weather.

7. Malham Cove, Gordale Scar & Janet’s Foss (Yorkshire Dales, England)

Why go: A perfect sampler of limestone country — hidden waterfalls, towering gorges, and the alien-like limestone pavement atop Malham Cove.

Distance/Time: 7.5–12 km; 3–5 hours.

Difficulty: Moderate.

Highlights include Janet’s Foss (a mossy waterfall glade), Gordale Scar (an optional scramble if safe), and the iconic Malham Cove steps.

Best time: Spring flowers or autumn colour.

8. South West Coast Path: St Ives to Zennor (Cornwall, England)

Why go: Granite cliffs, seals, and sea stacks — the Cornish coast at its most raw and beautiful.

Distance/Time: 5–7 miles one way; 3–5 hours.

Difficulty: Challenging for distance and terrain.

Waymarked by the acorn symbol, this rugged section rolls endlessly up and down. Tough on the legs, but the ocean views make every step worth it.

Best time: May–June or September for lighter crowds and great visibility.

9. Hadrian’s Wall (Northumberland, England): Housesteads to Steel Rigg

Why go: Roman ruins plus rollercoaster escarpments. This is the photogenic heart of Hadrian’s Wall.

Distance/Time: 8 miles; 4–5 hours.

Difficulty: Moderate.

Walk past forts, milecastles, and iconic crags. The mix of history and wild landscapes makes it one of the UK’s most rewarding moderate hikes.

Best time: Spring skies or autumn gold.

10. Causeway Coast Way: Dunseverick to Giant’s Causeway (Northern Ireland)

Why go: One of the most cinematic coastal hikes in the UK — basalt cliffs, sea arches, castle ruins, and the world-famous Giant’s Causeway.

Distance/Time: 5–6 miles; 2–3 hours.

Difficulty: Easy-moderate.

Start at Dunseverick Castle ruins, follow the coast, and finish among the surreal basalt columns. On a sunny day, it’s unforgettable.

Best time: Early morning or late evening to dodge bus crowds.

Hiking in the UK: Gear That Makes It Easier

Every hike on this list has one essential in common: a reliable backpack. Whether it’s a short loop in Yorkshire or a nine-hour Munro climb in Scotland, carrying water, snacks, and layers is non-negotiable.

That’s why we rate the FITTUX Tactical Hydration Backpack so highly. It combines the practicality of a vest with water bladder pouch with the durability of a true outdoor pack. With its 2-litre hydration bladder, you can sip on the move without breaking stride — a huge bonus on ridge walks or hot coastal climbs.

Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Expandable storage (20–35L): Pack lean for short hikes or load up for day-long treks.

• Weather resistance: A waterproof camping bag design keeps gear dry when UK skies inevitably turn.

• Comfort: Lightweight build, breathable mesh back panel, and stabilising chest buckle mean it won’t drag you down.

• Organisation: Multiple compartments for snacks, maps, and accessories for men who like things neat.

• Versatility: Equally good as a cool rucksack for cycling, running, or mountain adventures.

From mini day hikes to full-day scrambles, this is the one back pack men and women can trust to handle everything the trail throws at them.

Final Thoughts

So, what are the best hikes in the UK? That depends on your mood — whether you’re chasing ridge drama on Helvellyn, sea spray on the Cornish coast, or the surreal basalt columns of Northern Ireland. The common thread is simple: the UK rewards explorers who are prepared.

Start early, carry the right kit, and keep an open plan B. With routes this varied, you’ll never run out of spectacular options.

And if you’re gearing up for your next adventure, invest in a lightweight waterproof hiking backpack with hydration system — it could be the difference between a good hike and a great one.

If you’re looking to take your adventures beyond the trail, check out the FITTUX clothing collection — premium gymwear and streetwear designed for comfort, performance, and everyday confidence. From oversized tees and hoodies to training bottoms and accessories, our range is built for those who move with purpose. Explore the full collection now at FITTUX.com and gear up for your next challenge.