We all know that winter can seem bleak and boring after Christmas. To beat the January blues, you can go on a walk and explore the Great British countryside. It’s also a great way to spend time with family and stay active during the colder months.
Here are four beautiful winter walks in England, Scotland, and Wales. They’re suitable for the whole family, and a great way to encourage children to enjoy the outdoors.
Lake District
Cumbria, England
The Lake District is teeming with walks to tempt the whole family. In the winter, the mountain tops are dusted with snow and the Great British countryside turns into a winter wonderland. Whether you want to brave a climb up Helvellyn or take a stroll along Lake Buttermere, there’s a winter walk out there for everyone.
The Beatrix Potter walk takes you on a journey around Lake Windermere and over Claife Heights. On the way, you’ll explore the landscapes that inspired the classic tales of Peter Rabbit and Benjamin Bunny. If you don’t fancy undertaking the entire walk, there are buses to offer leisurely transportation, so this is perfect for the whole family!
Henrhyd Falls
Brecon Beacons, Wales
Wales is a beautiful country. If you’d like to walk in Wales this winter, you should visit the Brecon Beacons. This is a national park full of breath-taking waterfalls, caves, and reservoirs. The paths are close to the ground, so they offer a safer and less exposed hike than on a snow-covered mountain.
The waterfalls in Brecon Beacons National Park are anything but ordinary. In fact, Henrhyd Falls stands at 27m tall and is the biggest waterfall in South Wales! Bring a backpack filled with winter treats – from flasks of tea to gingerbread biscuits – and enjoy the beautiful sights with your family. Even more interesting, this is the waterfall that features in The Dark Knight Rises (2012), so you can see the Batcave for yourself!
Corfe Castle
Dorset, England
If you’re eager to get off the couch this winter, put on your walking shoes and visit the green hills of Dorset. The county is home to some of the most scenic views in the country, including the historic remains of Corfe Castle. In winter, the crumbling ruins twinkle in the frost and loom in the mist. Can you think of a more atmospheric sight?
The walk around Corfe Castle can be as long (or short) as you want it to be. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can walk from Kimmeridge Bay and arrive at the Castle. The journey is fairly difficult – with some muddy areas and worn-down footpaths – but the payoff is well worth the trouble.
Glen Coe
Glencoe, Scotland
We can’t explore the most beautiful winter walks in the UK without mentioning the Scottish highlands! One of many awe-inspiring locations, Glen Coe is a mesmerising sight of narrow valleys and peaking mountains. The glen is home to a number of challenging walks, from the Aonach Eagach to the Pap of Glencoe to the Lost Valley.
If you’re eager to explore Glen Coe with your family, we recommend that you visit the Glencoe Lochan trails. The walking paths are easier to explore than the mountain tops, so it’s perfect for all walkers. The North American pine forest transforms into a winter dream, and you’ll get to walk amidst festive snow-covered trees.
These are some of the most beautiful winter walks in the Great British countryside. But there are so many more ready for you to go and explore! Grab your boots, tie your laces, and go on an adventure! Whether it’s a snowy stroll or a climb of a lifetime, where will you go first?
Sources
https://www.visitlakedistrict.com/things-to-do/beatrix-potter-walk-p1219391
https://www.wanderingwelshgirl.com/brecon-beacons-waterfalls/
https://www.holidaycottages.co.uk/blog/top-10-walks-winter
https://www.southwestcoastpath.org.uk/walksdb/584/https://www.tgomagazine.co.uk/news/the-10-best-walks-in-glen-coe/