Once again The Festival of Winter Walks by Ramblers returns to encourage people to get outside and explore the gorgeous winter landscapes that Britain has to offer. This year’s festival will run from Saturday 17th December to Sunday 8th January 2017, and to celebrate we’ve chosen our favourite winter walks in the UK. So pull on your boots, fix your scarf and get outside to enjoy the British winter in some of our favourite spots.
Although the Lake District is famous for its abundance of walking routes the one that particularly shines in winter is the Beatrix Potter Walk. This walk stretches around Lake Windermere and over to Claife Heights and the villages of Sawrey and Hawkshead, which served as inspiration for Beatrix’s works. You will also have a chance to visit her house Hill Top in Near Sawrey and discover Cockshott Point, which Beatrix bequeathed to the National Trust.
The New Forest is a dream destination for all things outdoorsy. Covering an area of 140 miles of tracks where you can watch free roaming ponies and cattle turns into a winter wonderland once the temperature drops. In the New Forest you will also be able to experience ancient woodland, heaths, villages and ‘secret’ coasts.
Spectacular coastal views and unspoilt scenery is guaranteed to delight when walking along Pembrokeshire Coast Path. The highlights include Solva Harbour that overlooks St Bride’s Bay and The Gribin- a ridge topped by an Iron Age fort. The area’s heritage can be spotted all over thanks to lime kilns and old mills that you will encounter while on route.
Taith Arudway Way is a 24 mile pathway starting from Barmouth in the south, on the Mawddach Estuary to Llandecwyn in the north. The Way is known for the best coastal and mountain views in Wales, prehistoric sites and varied vegetation. Highlights of the path include fabulous views of the mountains in Snowdonia and the Bryn Cader Faner Bronze Age round cairn towards the end of the route. The walk is considered to be challenging but the views are worth the effort.
A winter walk through Glenmore Forest is sure to make you feel like you’re back on to the pages of your favourite fairy tale book. This walk around Loch Mrolich offers breath taking views of the northern Cairngorm Mountains, especially when topped by snow. This trail is one of the most popular walks in Scotland due to its superb scenery and easy footpath, making it a perfect choice for the whole family to enjoy.