English walking breaks can encompass a range of terrain, from gentle walking to hiking over difficult ground. Whether you’re an avid hiker or are simply after gentle afternoon strolls, the English terrain offers something for everyone. Here are some of the best walks for keen hikers who enjoy a challenge and can manage the more strenuous walks.
To Innominate Tarn
Labelled by some as the most challenging walk in Britain, the Alfred Wainwright Memorial Walk affords views over lakes, valleys, mountains, moorlands, tarns and waterfalls, with average daily ascents of 4,000ft. This walk was conceived by Alfred Wainwright, who mapped out the 102 miles into 11 stages. Some may wish to tackle the whole of this lengthy but exciting walk; but for those who do not have the time, a week’s walking in England can give you the opportunity to enjoy many of its highlights.
Beginning in Buttermere, you can climb to Innominate Tarn, the site where Alfred Wainwright was finally laid to rest. With his spirit in the air, you will be inspired by this beautiful area, where you can follow in his footsteps and climb every peak. UK walking holidays frequently follow the paths that so inspired this brilliant writer, and whilst you may not wish to complete his full walk, sections of it will be magnificent too.
Lands End and Cape Cornwall: Coastal Hiking
England’s south coast is one of the best areas for more challenging UK walking holidays. This 44 mile walk from Penzance to St Ives will give you the opportunity to view these magnificent seascapes from the coastal paths. Winding paths will lead you along dramatic cliffs and past intriguing rock formations that will delight keen geographers.
You can walk to remote lighthouses, old mine workings and traditional fishing villages, adding a touch of history to your English walking break through Cape Cornwall and Lands End. The walk is split into 4 stages. The first is from Penzance to Porthcurno, a gentler introduction to the area. The second day of the walk is the most strenuous, beginning in Porthcurno and ending at Cape Cornwall, a beautiful stretch of English countryside. Day three will see you walking from Cape Cornwall to Curnard’s Head, and from here you will walk the final stretch on day four, from Gurnard’s Head to St Ives, a relaxed and scenic way to end off your UK walking holiday.
Hasness Hiking
The Lake District is one of the most popular destinations for walking in England. Its rolling hills and challenging peaks make for excellent and scenic walks, and it is considered to be one of the most inspirational regions in the UK. Walking holidays in the area allow for quiet contemplation, and more difficult mountain paths can be quite meditative as you focus on where you place your feet.
Staying in Hassness, a number of peaks will be at your disposal to climb. You can challenge yourself to climb all the peaks in the area, such as Haystacks, High Stile, Fleetwith Pike and Pillar. Whichever peak you decide to climb, you can expect breathtaking views from the top and beautiful scenery along the way.
Author Resource:
Tony Maniscalco is the Sales and Marketing Manager for Ramblers Countrywide Holidays. Part of Ramblers Worldwide Holidays, who have been operating since 1946, they are dedicated to providing the very finest English walking breaks (http://www.ramblerscountrywide.co.uk/ ) at the best value prices.