Walk of the Month: The Best Walks in Britain

It’s the first Walk of the Month for 2016 and we’re kicking things off in style by compiling a list of the best walks in Britain! Isle of Inspiration, a recent addition to the Sykes website, has shown us that Britain has a lot to offer walkers; from coastal paths to rugged country routes, there is a lot of ground to cover. The following walks are all featured in Isle of Inspiration and come with a strong tie to some of the UK’s most recognisable artists, so when you walk along these routes you could be walking in the footsteps of Barbara Hepworth, Kate Bush or even William Wordsworth.

Rosedale Mineral Railway Walk

Image by Steph Lee – CC 2.0

Covering just one mile this walk should take no more than an hour to complete and takes in some fantastic views of the Yorkshire Moors. Whilst following the path, walkers should look out for evidence of the ironstone industry; a row of terraced houses which were originally built to house railway line workers, are of particular interest.

See the full walk here: Rosedale Mineral Railway

Hole of Horcum Walk

Image by YorkshirePhotoWalks – CC 2.0

Both Kate Bush and Emily Brontë were big fans of the Yorkshire Moors and when following this five mile route, it’s not hard to see why. With panoramic views, archaeological remains and beautiful Yorkshire scenery, this three mile walk is more than worth the effort. To see more of the moors, walkers can opt to take a diversion making this walk closer to seven miles long.

See the full walk here: Hole of Horcum

Seaford to Eastbourne Walk

Image by George Redgrave – CC 2.0

If you fancy a day walking along the beautiful south east coastline then this 13.8 mile walk is for you, but be warned the route takes around seven hours to complete and is not recommended for beginners. For those brave enough to take on this challenging walk, you’ll be rewarded with sensational views of the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head.

See the full walk here: Seaford to Eastbourne

Zennor Head Walk

Image by Andrew – CC 2.0

Probably the easiest walk in our selection, the Zennor Head Walk takes just 30 to 40 minutes to complete and covers one mile. When following the route, walkers will be treated to fantastic views of Cornish countryside and coast, some of which are bound to have inspired the work of the iconic artist Barbara Hepworth.

See the full walk here: Zennor Head

Cliff Top Walk

Image by Kelveden – CC 2.0

This is the easiest of our Cheddar George walks and a brilliant introduction to the area. At just three miles long, this walk should take around two hours to complete and incorporates some of Cheddar George’s most iconic scenes. From the Horseshoe Bend and Lookout Tower, to The Pinnacles and Black Rock Gate, it’s easy to see why this area inspired JRR Tolkien.

See the full walk here: Cliff Top

Extended Cliff Top Walk

Image by Sammieee – CC 2.0

If you’re feeling a little more adventurous then why not take on the extended cliff top walk? With a longer walking route, you’re able to see more of the area’s incredible landscape and fantastic wildlife. This walk follows a five mile route and will take around three hours to complete. Walkers should take care as the path has some rough sections and steep climbs; it is not advised to undertake this walk when the weather is windy or foggy.

See the full walk here: Extended Cliff Top

Mendip Hills Walk

Image by Jack Berry – CC 2.0

At 5.3 miles, this walk will take just overthree hours to complete and is fantastic for the more experienced walker. The ascent is 314.1m so suitable walking shoes and a walking pole are advised. Whilst walking, we suggest keeping an eye out for the herd of British Primitive Goats which can be found grazing on the cliffs.

See the full walk here: Mendip Hills

Semer Water Walk

Image by Andrew – CC 2.0

The Semer Water walk offers a fantastic day out for experienced walkers, where they can ramble along the 10 mile route as they take in some of the Lake District’s most iconic scenery. The walk takes a minimum of five hours to complete and with many stopping points along the way, there are plenty of opportunities for a picnic with fellow walkers. View our Lake District Travel Guide, offering all the inspiration you need to make your break a memorable one.

See the full walk here: Semer Water

Grasmere and Rydal Water

Image by Bo Mertz – CC 2.0

This is a relatively easy walk, nestled in one of the most beautiful places to stay in the Lake District, with some steep sections appearing over the 5.6 mile route. In total, the walk should take just over two hours to complete but if you want to stop off and admire the scenery, we would suggest allowing two and a half hours. Whilst on your walk, be sure to stop off at Dove Cottage which was once home to poet William Wordsworth.

See the full walk here: Grasmere and Rydal Water