Walk yourself healthy: The best places in the UK for a brisk walk
Walking is one of the best ways to stay healthy, and it’s something that many of us do every day as part of our normal lives. It’s recommended that you take 10,000 steps per day to stay active, and a brisk walk counts towards the 150 minutes of exercise that you should be doing each week. Walking is low-impact and you can choose just how difficult you want to make it. Whether you want to go for an easy walk along flat and unchallenging ground or you’re looking for something tougher to tackle, there are so many places to go for a walk in the UK.
North Yorkshire Moors
The North Yorks Moors are an incredible beauty spot with plenty of opportunity for walking. If you want to try some hill walking but you’re looking for something easier to start with, Roseberry Topping is a good option. It offers a short walk of two miles but it can be a challenge to anyone who wants one. If you would rather take things more slowly, Newton Woods below the hill is a lovely wildlife spot, with bluebells, birds and easily walkable paths. For other easy walks around the Moors, you can try the Ravenscar loop or Robin Hood’s Bay to Boggle Hole.
Giant’s Causeway
The famous Giant’s Causeway might look rugged at first glance. Although it doesn’t exactly seem accessible, there are easier routes that you can take. The Green Trail over the cliff tops offers you a two-mile walk that just about anyone can handle. You can avoid the crowds and experience some incredible views, even seeing the Scottish coastline in clear weather. Start at the Causeway Hotel for this gentler way to enjoy the area. For a busier but still easy walk, take the 0.8 mile Blue Trail to go directly to the stones.
Anglesey
Wales has no end of walking opportunities, and the coastal walks are particularly beautiful. The island of Anglesey in North Wales is not only home to one of the longest place names in the world, but also a lovely spot for some memorable walks. The island’s beaches and coastal paths are fantastic for some easy walks, including Cemlyn shingle ridge, which offers a manageable one hour circular walk. It takes you around the Cemlyn National Nature Reserve, and you’ll also pass the home of the first person to fly from Wales to Ireland, Captain Vivian Hewitt.
Argyll
Scotland is often a top pick for hill walkers, but you don’t have to aim for the highest heights if you want to enjoy what the country has to offer. Argyll has some excellent walks for anyone looking for something a little easier, and a bit less up and down. In the Knapdale Forest, find the Scottish Beaver Trail and enjoy a three-mile circular walk, where you can keep an eye out for the furry water dwellers. If you’re looking for a family day out with children or grandchildren, Ardkinglas House on the shores of Loch Fyne offers the Gruffalo Trail, giving you a fun and interactive experience for all the family.
Devon
Devon is an excellent place to visit if you’re looking for accessible walks. There are several fantastic trails that are completely accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs or that offer at least part of the trail that can be used by all. A short 1.5-mile walk at Killerton is great for everyone of all ages and abilities and a two-mile walk at Baggy Point offers an accessible way to explore the coast. Salcome Hill on the South West Coast Path is another excellent place to catch some sea views.
How to Start Walking More
Walking is an easy way to keep fit, whether you like a gentle stroll or you prefer to pick up the pace. If you want to start walking more, it doesn’t have to be difficult to get out and start using your legs. You don’t even need to have a car to find the best walking spots. Many walks are perfectly accessible by bus or train, and you can even try out some more urban walks for an interesting way to explore towns and cities. Start by looking for walks in your local area and perhaps even joining a walking group. Many groups are for specific ages and abilities so you can find one that suits you. For regular walking, be sure to invest in a good pair of supportive walking shoes or boots. Find out how you can prevent blisters while walking here.
Stay healthy by walking regularly, from walking to the shops to going on a day-long hike. It’s an easy way to keep fit, and it doesn’t cost much either.
