If you’d like to spend some time with the family and you’d like to remain as active as possible, then a good walking holiday might be a sensible option. It’s a chance to put one foot in front of another, and to reconnect with the natural world. Given the wealth of National Parks and coastal paths available in the UK, you’re never far from a suitable route – or, a selection of them.
Choose routes that give big views with family-friendly terrain
If you want to keep the family engaged as you walk around, then it’s usually better to keep each stretch short and manageable. Be prepared to carry any small children who can’t cope with the distance you choose. Landmarks along the way and wildlife-spotting opportunities are also great for keeping young minds occupied.
You might look at the Argory in County Armagh, which runs along the Blackwater, and its many kingfishers. Or, in Shropshire, there’s Attingham Park, where ancient trees stand alongside the Mile Walk. In Nottinghamshire, it’s worth considering Clumber Park, which offers more than twenty miles of trail. Then, in Staffordshire, there are the forested hills of Kinver Edge.
The Best UK Regions for Scenic Family Walking Holidays
Certain parts of the UK stand apart when it comes to walking holidays. These are typically the ones with major National Parks. Pay a visit to the Lake District, and you’ll be able to hike from peak to peak, and enjoy amazing views of the lakes themselves in the process. The Jurassic Coast is perfect for fossil hunters, while the Cotswolds are perfect for those who’d like to stroll along the various waterways that link one quaint little village to the next.
New and Emerging Scenic Walking Experiences in the UK
If you’re in search of something new and a little bit different, then you might look beyond the major walking destinations. Kielder Forest offers a pleasing blend of attractions, as well as dark sky experiences.
You might also look at recent upgrades to existing routes. The Coast to Coast walk, which spans Cumbria and North Yorkshire, has recently enjoyed extensive maintenance, and been designated a National Trail.
Plan for mixed ages: pacing, facilities, and accessibility
What if you’re trying to entertain a diverse family group, comprising family members of many different ages and abilities? You’ll want to be a little bit conservative when it comes to your target pace, and to avoid any trails that aren’t suitable for the buggies and pushchairs you might be taking along. Many trails come with guidance attached – so be sure to read it. You might find that the advice allows you to get the most from your walking holiday.