6 Luxurious and Picturesque Walking Trails in the UK for Tranquil Escape

Published
04/14/2025

Walking is one of the easiest ways to break stress and provide your mind, body and soul with a deserving break. Many people choose luxury walking holidays that allow them to disconnect from their hectic schedule and technology and explore the world as they should.

If you are in the UK you can find a range of luxury walking trails that can offer you with scenic landscapes and opulent accommodations. These high-end walking trails provide you with the escape you need to replenish your mind, body and soul and indulge in ultimate comfort that can make a difference. However, with so many of these walking trails you need to be clear about which ones would suit your preferences.

With extensive experience Walk With Williams can help you create a custom itinerary for walking holidays in the UK that meets your needs and preferences. This would ensure that you can make the most of the luxury walking holidays that you have in mind.

 

The Peddars Way

Considered one of the most scenic trails in Southern England, The Peddars Way is a great choice for those who prefer an easy walking trail. This walking trail begins in Knetishall Heath and heads northward to conclude in Holmes-by-the-Sea.

If you have never tried a walking holiday before this would be a great trail to pick. With just 74 km (46 miles) to cover you can quickly finish this trail while you are on an extended weekend holiday. The trail follows an ancient Roman road and provides you with a picturesque countryside landscape.

While The Peddars Way offers an experience to discover Britain on foot it also provides the opportunity to enjoy British luxury. With plenty of upscale countryside inns and hotels, you can enjoy farm-to-table dining and other luxurious amenities that make this a great trail in South England.

 

Cotswold Way

If you are a nature enthusiast you would want to explore the Cotswold Way whether you are walking alone or with your loved ones. This 102-mile (164 km) National Trail can offer you picturesque views and an amazing walking holiday experience.

This scenic trail begins in the historic town of Chipping Campden and ends in Bath offering an immersive experience to nature lovers. Hence, this is a great choice for those who love history and nature. As you walk this trail you pass through rolling hills, ancient woodlands, tranquil valleys and quaint Cotswold villages.

Cotswold Way is a great choice for luxury walking holiday experiences as you can choose from multiple options such as Barnsley House and The Fish Hotel that provide a perfect blend of comfort and indulgence to help you relax and unwind.

 

Hadrian’s Wall Path

Probably one of the most popular luxury walking holiday trails in the UK, Hadrian’s Wall Path can provide you with a perfect blend of history, nature and opulent accommodations. This trail stretches 84 miles (135 km) from Wallsend to Bowness-on-Solway in the west making it an ideal walking path for history buffs and nature lovers. This ancient wall is one of the top UNESCO Sites in the UK that you should not miss.

The path is well-maintained, easy-to-follow and has almost flat terrain making it a great choice for those those who want to try walking holidays without much effort. While the trail typically takes a week or more to complete the moderate level of difficulty ensures that it is a perfect way to enjoy adventure with family and friends.

Hadrian’s Wall Path stays parallel to the historic ancient Roman wall and at the same time offers dramatic landscapes like rugged moorlands, lush countryside and tranquil river valleys. When you are done with your share of walking you can stay at luxurious accommodations like The Twice Brewed Inn and the Walltown House.

 

The Ridgeway

With plenty of history and culture, the UK can provide you with fascinating walking trails that take you back in time. The Ridgeway is called the oldest road in Britain and walking this trail can provide you with a great experience in terms of history, geography and nature.

Stretching 87 miles (140 km) across from Overton Hill near Avebury in Wiltshire to Irvinghoe Beacon in Buckinghamshire, The Ridgeway can provide you with an experience like no other. While the path is relatively flat you can find certain portions of the trail that can challenge you for an adventure. Hence, it is essential that you have the best hiking boots that offer the best comfort, durability, support, and value.

While this road is quite historic it is well-maintained and there are plenty of signs and markings along the path that would ensure that you can follow the trail correctly. Along the route, you can also find various luxurious hotels and accommodations like Mays Farm Shepherds Hut and White Hart. This allows you to blend adventure with luxury as you enjoy various facilities and amenities at these accommodations.

 

The Northumberland Coast

Exploring the coast on foot can be an amazing holiday experience. If you are someone who enjoys coastal landscapes and amazing beaches you can choose to explore The Northumberland Coast. This 62-mile (100 km) National Trail begins in Cresswell and extends south to Berwick-upon-Tweed in the north.

Apart from coastal sceneries, there are various reasons to explore Northumberland as a solo traveller or as a family looking for a luxurious walking holiday. You can spend time at some of the sandy beaches, and explore rugged cliffs and tranquil estuaries home to local birds and fauna.

If you are into history you can explore various historic landmarks in Northumberland like the iconic Bamburg Castle. When you are done exploring the trail and the surrounding landmarks you can stay at various luxury accommodations like Joiners Arms, The Plough Inn and the Newton Hall.

 

The South Downs Way

When you are looking for high-end scenic walking trails you can add The South Downs Way to the list. Known for its rolling chalk hills, lush valleys and breathtaking coastal sceneries near the Seven Sisters cliffs, this is a great place to walk alone, with your partner or family. If you are someone who enjoys adventure, outdoor activities and lush greenery this would be a great walking trail to choose from.

Spanning across 160 km (100 miles), the trail begins in Winchester and ends in Eastbourne. This allows you to meander through the picturesque South Downs National Park. If you are a nature enthusiast you can have a great time as you stop and explore the local flora and fauna. You can take pictures of butterflies and wildflowers that grow here enhancing the raw natural beauty.

Also, as you walk this trail you pass through quaint villages, historical landmarks like Arundel Castle and amazing English countryside views. The path is dotted with a range of luxury accommodations, boutique hotels and inns that offer opulent stays and fine dining experiences.