The 'most scenic' walks in the UK named - from picturesque coastal paths to gentle lakeside strolls

UK's top 10 walks as weather warms up |

GB NEWS

Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 25/08/2025

- 16:47

Discover some of the most beautiful routes in the UK, according to experts

The UK is a beautiful country, and what better way to take it all in than on a picturesque walking route?

Speaking exclusively to GB News, the team at SimonEscapes shared their top walking recommendations, with everything from the coast to rolling hills making the list.


Cornwall

Cornwall often comes recommended for a UK break, whether you want to lounge on a beach or take a peaceful walk.

The experts said: "Some of the most scenic coastal walks in the UK can be done along the South West coastal path. The South West Coast Path is the UK's longest national trail and stretches for a total of 630 miles."

Cornwall aerial view

Cornwall has great walking routes

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PA

They suggested finding the route between Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset, following the coasts of North Devon, Cornwall, South Devon and Dorset.

The entire walk would take several weeks, but Britons can pick a section that is convenient to them for a shorter stroll.

Lake District

Up north, the Lake District offers timeless beauty, and the experts said there are a number of great routes to discover there. They said: "The Lake District is a hiker’s paradise, offering everything from gentle lakeside strolls to epic ridge walks.

"What’s 'best' depends on your preferences - think scenery, difficulty, remoteness."

The routes are all different, but the experts suggested Helvellyn via Striding Edge, Scafell Pike (England’s Highest Mountain), Catbells - Near Keswick, Fairfield Horseshoe - Ambleside or Langdale Pikes.

The Cotswolds

Walk through picturesque villages and open countryside when visiting the Cotswolds. It has more moderate walking routes than the other two suggestions, the travel pros claimed.

They continued: "Walking in the Cotswolds offers a gentler, more bucolic experience than the rugged Lake District or coastal paths. It’s all about rolling hills, golden-stone villages, ancient woodlands, and meadows."

Some suggestions include the Cotswold Way National Trail, Broadway Tower Circular, Bourton-on-the-Water to Lower Slaughter and Upper Slaughter, and Winchcombe to Hailes Abbey and Belas Knap.

Cotswolds lake and houseThe Cotswolds is great for a walking holiday | GETTY

For more staycation inspiration, experts rounded up England's most budget-friendly campsites, with prices from £17 per night.

In a new study, the Old Stables Campsite in Hayle, Cornwall, was found to be the cheapest stay in the country at just £51 for three nights.

That works out to only £17 per night for a spot that's just five minutes from west Cornwall's beaches. It's a bargain that clearly resonates with visitors - 92 per cent of people who've stayed there would recommend it to others.

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