Top 5 Walking breaks in the UK

I know many of my readers enjoy walking or would like to get more physically active without joining a gym or going to classes. Walking is perfect exercise whilst also being enjoyable and family activity. Here I share the top 5 walking breaks in the UK.

Walking has fast become one of my favourite activities – it’s great to get some fresh air, it’s good exercise and it’s also a nice way to clear your head, especially when you’re so busy with work and your social life. It’s also a great way of spending some time with my best pal – my dog! Here are my five favourite places to take a walking break in the UK.

1. Peak District

Ok, so this is a bit of a cheat as I actually live in the Peak District…so I might be slightly biased! Nevertheless, it’s a really beautiful place to get out and about and is home to some of my favourite walks. One of my favourites is the Monsal Trail – starting from the lovely town of Bakewell and finishing at Monsal Head for some spectacular views and a glass of wine at the pub. It’s about seven miles there and back and perfect for a beautiful day.

Other favourites of mine include Cromford Canal, Mam Tor and roaming around the grounds of the beautiful Chatsworth House.

2. Lake District

I recently fell in love with the Lakes all over again when I got to spend the weekend there at the Where’s Mollie Global Travellers event. The picturesque towns of Ambleside and Grasmere particularly stole my heart and there are plenty of dog-friendly pubs in each where you can stop after your walk.

I also love the traffic-free Ennerdale Valley where I got lost for hours in the mountains. For the more hardy walkers, there is Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain. It takes around five hours to tackle this beast and is a pretty tough hike. If you’re planning on doing this, check the weather beforehand and make sure you’re well-equipped.

3. Cornwall

I visited Cornwall for the first time ever this summer (I know, ridiculous right?!) and I loved it. The sandy beaches and cliffs are just like being abroad when the weather is good. I stayed near Padstow and loved Treyarnon Bay and Constantine Bay. Both of these beaches are dog friendly too and, if you get tired of walking, you can even take your dog paddle boarding!

Padstow and Rock are great for exploring and pottering in the little shops and next time I visit I’d love to try out the South West Coast Path around St Ives.