19+ Best Day Hikes In England For Your Adventurous Heart

England is the home to some of Europe’s best day hikes. With diverse landscapes of rolling hills and lush green countryside, it’s hard to resist the temptation of a hiking adventure in this beautiful country. Rugged coastal paths and breathtaking moorlands also add to the charm. Apart from that, what makes England perfect for day hikes is the well-maintained network of footpaths. Navigation is a breeze, even for beginner hikers. And the variety of routes, from local to national trails, welcome all ambitious and free-spirited wanderlusts. On top of that, England’s unique and iconic railroad system offers a lot of opportunities for multiple-trail hikes without breaking the bank. In this article, you will find the list of 21 best day hikes in England as well as useful packing tips to help you hike hassle-free. The Best Day Hikes In North Of England Helvellyn via Striding Edge, Lake District | Hard | 13km Scafell Pike, Lake District | Hard | 13km round trip Hadrian’s Wall Path, Northumberland | Moderate | 135km The Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye | Easy - Moderate | 2.4km Ingleborough, Yorkshire Dales National Park | Moderate - Hard | 17km Pennine Way, Derbyshire Peak District | Hard | 429km The Best Day Hikes In South Of England Seven Sisters Cliffs, South Downs National Park, | Easy | 23km Jurassic Coast, Dorset | Easy - Moderate | 152km Devil’s Punchbowl, Surrey | Easy | 2km Beachy Head, South Downs National Park | Moderate - Hard | 5km Box Hill, Surrey | Moderate - Hard | 4km The Best Day Hikes In the West Of England The Llangollen Canal, Shropshire | Easy - Hard | 74km Kinder Scout, Peak District National Park | Moderate - Hard | 144km The Cheddar Gorge, Somerset | Moderate - Hard | 4km long - 120m deep The Cotswold Way, Gloucestershire | Easy - Moderate | 164km The Teign Valley Gorge, Devon | Moderate - Hard | 6km The Best Day Hikes In East Of England The Norfolk Coast Path, Norfolk | Easy - Moderate | 135km White Cliffs Of Dover, Kent | Easy - Moderate | 16km The Yorkshire Wolds Way | Easy - Moderate | 122km The Broads National Park, Norfolk | Varied | Varied The South Downs Way, East Sussex | Easy - Moderate | 160km The Best Day Hikes In North Of England It is said that Northern England is a hiking paradise, and it couldn’t be more true. The Lake District National Park, with its stunning mountains and lakes, basically calls out for hikers to explore. The beautiful countryside where heritage towns and villages look like they walk out of paintings is a feast for the eyes of adventure lovers. The coastal areas, like Northumberland, also boast magnificent castles and beaches. There’s no better way to explore these beauties than a good hike. 1. Helvellyn via Striding Edge, Lake District Helvellyn is challenging but worth every second. Photo by tranquillian - stock.adobe.com Starting point: Glenridding Car Park Difficulty: Hard Journey: 13 kilometres, approximately 5 hours Helvellyn, England’s third-highest point, offers a thrilling but rewarding experience with a beautiful landscape. Starting from Glenridding Car Park, you can begin your adventure by following the path beside the lovely mountain stream up. There are many ways to reach the peak, but Striding Edge is the most popular route, hence its name. Though strenuous and rocky at some sections, this iconic hiking trail is still loved by many climbers. 2. Scafell Pike, Lake District Rugged and steep terrain opens the way to the marvellous view of Lake District. Photo by whitcomberd - stock.adobe.com Starting point: Wasdale National Trust Car Park Difficulty: Hard Journey: 13 kilometres round trip, 5.6 kilometres one way from Wasdale Another star in Lake District is Scafell Pike, England’s highest point. It can be quite a challenge for newbie hikers with rugged and steep terrain. But the view from the summit is definitely worth every climbing second. You can see the nearby vistas, hills and neighbouring peaks. And when the sky is clear enough, you can even see Scotland, Wales and even the Isle of Man. It’s truly mesmerising. 3. Hadrian’s Wall Path, Northumberland Hadrian’s Wall is a must-hike for lovers of nature and history. Photo by drhfoto - stock.adobe.com Starting point: Wallsend in Newcastle Difficulty: Moderate Journey: 135 kilometres (from start to finish) The Hadrian’s Wall Path is one of England’s best long-distance hiking trails and a historically significant one, too. Although many hikers believe it’s best to walk its entire length, you can hike in sections that you love. The most recommended walk is from Chollerford to Birdoswald, where you can find historic remains of Roman forts. It has short climbs and descents that can be quite a challenge for your body, but the path is easy to navigate and is covered in natural grass. 4. The Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye (part of Scotland, but close to Northern England) Prepare to be enchanted by the ethereal Fairy Pools. Photo by EyesTravelling - stock.adobe.com Starting point: Fairy Pools car park near Glenbrittle Difficulty: Easy to moderate Journey: 2.4 kilometres A fan of fantasy and dream-like aesthetic? You don’t want to overlook this best day hike in England called the Fairy Pools, located on the Isle of Skye and nestled within the Cuillin Mountains. It’s a short walk, and the terrain is not challenging at all. It’s a perfect day hike spot if you’re planning a family/child-friendly hiking trip. Dip your toes in the crystal clear water of these natural pools and enjoy a one-of-a-kind scene. Or, if you’re brave enough, go for a swim (but remember to follow the safety guide). 5. Ingleborough, Yorkshire Dales National Park Ingleborough is not as intimidating as it looks. Photo by RamblingTog on Adobe Stock. Starting point: Clapham Difficulty: Moderate to hard Journey: 17 kilometres Tranquil and peaceful is the landscape of Ingleborough, the majestic peak in the heart of Yorkshire Dales National Park. Ascending this trail and taking in the beautiful view of the countryside below with deep valleys, limestone pavements, and rolling hills make for a memorable hiking trip. The temperature drops quite noticeably as you ascend, so remember to keep warm and pack efficiently. 6. Pennine Way, Derbyshire Peak District Pennine Way hiking trail is not for the faint of heart. Photo by GraemeJBaty - stock.adobe.com Starting point: Village of Edale Difficulty: Hard Journey: 429 kilometres (you can hike in sections). This is considered one of the toughest and most iconic long-distance hiking trails in England. There are a lot of steep and boggy sections, alongside areas with changeable weather. Its stunning landscapes are only for the brave of heart to explore. Hardcore walkers might love to tackle the trail’s entire length, but if you just want a short hiking trip, don’t be afraid to walk Pennine Way in small sections that may take only a day or two. The views are just going to be as gorgeous. This fantastic hike offers a chance to immerse yourself in England’s impressive natural beauty as well as a chance to test your limits. The Best Day Hikes In South Of England If you’re not a fan of height, then you should definitely embark on a journey to Southern England. It’s where the stunning coastline created picturesque beaches, rugged cliffs and charming seaside towns. Here are some of the best day hikes in this part of England. 1. Seven Sisters Cliffs, South Downs National Park The unique Seven Sisters Cliffs trail is full of enchanting surprises. Photo by Aivars Vilks on Unsplash. Starting point: Seaford Esplanade Difficulty: Easy Journey: 23 kilometres You may not have heard of the cliffs, but you’ve probably seen it in famous movies like Harry Potter and Robin Hood. The seven chalk cliffs that originated the name Seven Sisters are the marvels of the area. Apart from the wonderful scenery of the sea, the trail is also the home to unique biodiversity. Who says England can’t have rainforests? Walk the trail and take a careful look at your feet. The grassland you’re walking on is called by many a miniature version of one! 2. Jurassic Coast, Dorset Prehistoric remains scattered along the Jurassic coast waiting for you to discover. Photo by Wirestock Creators on Adobe Stock. Starting point: Budleigh Salterton town Difficulty: Easy to moderate Journey: 152 kilometres (you can hike in sections) You might not run into any dinosaurs on your hike, but the chances of you discovering a fossil of a species belonging to a period of time way before us are plenty. That’s what makes a walk along the Jurassic Coast so exciting. This charm of a hike trail, with its spectacular rocky cliffs, is perfect for group or family hiking. But that’s not all this beautiful hiking trail has to offer. Ever since it was crowned a World Heritage Site in 2001, the location has been booming with great hotels and pubs - perfect for unwinding after a long hike. 3. Devil’s Punchbowl, Surrey The hike takes you through a variety of landscapes, including heathland, woodland, and sandstone cliffs. Devil's Punch Bowl 2, Leimenide, CC BY 2.0, via Flickr. Starting point: Punchbowl Car Park Difficulty: Easy Journey: 2 kilometres Don’t be intimidated by its name. Devil’s Punchbowl is actually a serene hike trail where you can reconnect with nature to the fullest. The highlight of the trail is the waterfall, standing 131 metres tall. As you wander through the lush green forest, you can hear the sound of the water falling as clear as day. Your heart will throb at how majestic it is, but you will also feel incredibly excited. Though it’s short and relatively easy to navigate, hiking with pets is not allowed. Its wet terrain is also not recommended for hiking with kids. 4. Beachy Head, South Downs National Park A Beachy Head day hike is short but unforgettable. Photo by bennoptic on Unsplash. Starting point: Eastbourne Difficulty: Moderate to hard Journey: 5.3 kilometres If you fall in love with the charming chalk hills of the Seven Sisters Cliffs, you will love them in Beachy Head, too. The only twist is that even though it’s short, Beachy Head is considered a quite challenging route. So, if you want an opportunity to push yourself, this is the perfect destination for you. The trail is also home to velvety green meadows, diverse wildlife and colourful lighthouses that will make you feel like you’re soaking in an unforgettable ambience. 5. Box Hill, Surrey Box Hill is unforgettable with its stunning scenery. Photo by Fela Sanu - stock.adobe.com Starting point: Box Hill’s visitor centre Difficulty: Moderate to hard Journey: 4.3 kilometres It’s the second spot in Surrey on our list of the best day hikes in England and for a good reason. The area never fails to give us amazing hiking trails. Box Hill is considered a challenging walk because even though the terrain is easy to walk on, there is a lot of climbing to do. So, if you’re planning to conquer Box Hill, pack some good climbing boots. We promise that the walk is worth all the hard work when you’re greeted by the sight of beautiful woodlands and impressive wildlife, like the iconic Adonis blue butterfly. The Best Day Hikes In the West Of England The best day hikes in Western England are for those who aren’t quite sure if they are a mountain or a coastal person. Because it’s the best of both worlds over here in the West. Its beautiful and varied landscapes, rich history and wildlife can rival that of the North and South. 1. The Llangollen Canal, Shropshire Feel the breath of nature in Llangollen. Photo by Geoff Pickering - stock.adobe.com Starting point: Depending on your trail Difficulty: Easy to hard (depending on your trail) Journey: 74 kilometres (you can hike in sections) The Canal is loved because it’s a perfect spot for a multiple-day hike trip. You can explore one trail today and another tomorrow. One of the best trails is the Castell Dinas Bran Circula, which takes about 2 hours to complete. You can explore castle ruins, do some bird watching and unwind with a cup of coffee and a warm meal in a local shop. If you prefer a hike full of cultural charms, there’s also a Llangollen Town trail that goes through the town. Some trails are very easy to walk, so you can plan a child-friendly hiking trip here. Some sections even allow dogs to be off-leash, too, if you’re hiking with them. 2. Kinder Scout, Peak District National Park Explore unique rock formations in Kinder Scout. Photo by Felix on Unsplash. Starting point: Depending on your trail Difficulty: Moderate to hard Journey: 144,8 kilometres (you can hike in sections) Kinder Scout is a historic trail as it was the site of the famous Mass Trespass of 1932. It’s a must-hike for history lovers. Accessible from big cities like Manchester and Sheffield, Kinder Scout’s scene highlights include Kinder Downfall, the tallest waterfall in the park. Popular rock formations such as Woolpacks and Pym Chair, and open moorland with unique species of plants are also a must-visit. Due to its variety in terrain, the trail can be challenging in some sections. 3. The Cheddar Gorge, Somerset Don’t miss out on Gough’s Cave in Cheddar Gorge. Photo by tom on Adobe Stock. Starting point: Cheddar Visitor Information Centre Difficulty: Moderate to hard (must not hike during bad weather) Journey: 4.8 kilometres long, 120 metres deep This natural limestone gorge is one of England’s best day hike trails, with iconic landmarks and spectacular scenery. A walk along the gorge’s trail will reveal to you the wonders left behind by past civilisations. One of the most popular landmarks is Gough’s Cave, a cave system inhabited for over 10 thousand years. While it’s not the largest cave, it’s full of wonders and secrets - in fact, the oldest complete human skeletons in Britain were found here. There are also many adrenaline-pumping activities to be enjoyed in the area, such as rock climbing and caving. And last but not least, just as its name suggests, it’s a part of how Cheddar cheese came to be. Explore the trail and shop for delicious cheese from traditional cheese shops in the village. 4. The Cotswold Way, Gloucestershire The lovely paths of Cotswold Way call for an adventure. Photo by Red Dot on Unsplash. Starting point: Chipping Campden Difficulty: Easy to moderate Journey: 164 kilometres It’s another long-distance hiking trail in England on our list. Hiking Cotswold Way takes you through dream-like villages, charming woodland and lovely rolling hills. You can also visit historical sites of ancient churches, manor houses and castles along the way. You may also come across Broadway Tower and the famous town called Painswick. To conquer the entire trail, it takes up to a week. But you can hike in any sections you love. 5. The Teign Valley Gorge, Devon This hike in Western England is full of solitude during quieter hours. Starting point: Finley Bridge Car Park Difficulty: Moderate to hard Journey: 6.4 kilometres There are many picturesque spots along the way where you can drop your backpack down and be amazed by the view. Some of them are the beautiful gardens of Castle Drogo, Fingle Woods, and Dogmarsh Bridge. The highlight of the trail is the Bridge Steps, a steep section leading to the riverside lined by a set of stones, where you will be greeted with the majestic sight of the waterfalls. If you’re looking for a tranquil escape from the busy everyday life, the Teign Valley Gorge is what you’re looking for. The Best Day Hikes In East Of England Eastern England is home to some of the country’s most vibrant hiking events and festivals. This makes it an ideal destination for adventure lovers who want to meet and hang out with fellow travellers. Combined with amazing landscapes and wildlife, Eastern England has hiking trails that are as stunning as other regions. 1. The Norfolk Coast Path, Norfolk The Norfolk Coast Path boasts magnificent coastal scenery and rich wildlife. Photo by yackers1 on Adobe Stock. Starting point: Hunstanton (West Norfolk) Difficulty: Easy to moderate Journey: 135 kilometres If you’re a fan of coastal trails, you should put the Norfolk Coast path on your travel checklist. This beautiful trail offers views of coastal landscapes, such as salt marshes, sandy beaches and rugged cliffs. The birds living in the area are also a sight to be in awe of. You can observe them closely in Titchwell Marsh and Cley Marsh's natural reserves. There are plenty of campsites along the route where you can stay the night if you’re planning on a multi-day hiking trip. 2. White Cliffs Of Dover, Kent The beautiful chalk cliffs in White Cliffs of Dover hike overlook the English Channel. Photo by Peter Mason on Unsplash Starting point: White Cliffs Visitor Centre Difficulty: Easy to moderate Journey: 16 kilometres You can view the iconic scenery surrounding the English Channel on a White Cliffs of Dover hike. The white chalk cliffs you’re walking on contrast beautifully with the blue of the sea, creating a memorable sight any nature lover will fall in love with. It’s a popular trail, so you can run into all types of adventurers along the way. The trail is easy to navigate and has many interesting structures built to serve in World War II, which makes it an ideal route to hike with older children and family. 3. The Yorkshire Wolds Way (East Riding of Yorkshire) The Yorkshire Wolds Way is a beautiful and varied walk. Artistic benches on the Yorkshire Wolds Way, Andrew Bowden, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Flickr. Starting point: Hessle Haven Difficulty: Easy to moderate Journey: 122 kilometres Yorkshire Wolds Way is a long-distance trail perfect to see the beautiful and serene Yorkshire Wolds landscape. The trail consists of 46 kilometres of footpath and 26 kilometres of bridleway. Yorkshire Wolds Way is often explored in 3 stages: from the start point to South Cave, from South Cave to Nunburnholme, and from Nunburnholme to Thixendale. You will come across plenty of old churches and peaceful villages sitting on top of lush green grass. It can be pretty crowded during peak hike season, so remember to book in advance if you’re thinking of camping overnight or staying at an accommodation for a bed and breakfast. 4. The Broads National Park, Norfolk There are plenty of walks to fill your itinerary at The Broads. Photo by BC-Consulting on Adobe Stock. Starting point: Depending on your trail Difficulty: Depending on your trail Journey: Depending on your trail This is a fantastic location for hikers who love a flexible itinerary because there are many walks to choose from. From short, easy walks through swampy woodland to long and strenuous walks through old villages and historical sites, the Broads' well-marked footpaths will lead you to a hiking trip you won’t forget. Some of the popular trails are How Hill, Weavers Way, and Ranworth. And if you happen to be a fan of boating activities, you’re in the right place at the Broads. Throw in some waterway fun on top of your exciting hike. 5. The South Downs Way, East Sussex The beloved South Downs Way is full of natural charms. Photo by veronique - stock.adobe.com Starting point: Winchester City Mill Difficulty: Easy to moderate Journey: 160 kilometres South Downs Way is one of the easy and very much loved National Trails. You can explore the rich variety of environments along the way, from open grasslands to dense woodlands. Not only that, there are numerous historical attractions to visit on your walk, such as hillforts dating back to the Iron Age, mediaeval churches and World War II’s structures. The lovely charming market towns and campsites also help turn this hiking trail into a memorable getaway for hiking enthusiasts. FAQs Still wanting to learn more about the best day hikes in England to plan your itinerary better? Here are the answers to some commonly asked questions you might be interested in. What Are The Best UK Hikes For Beginners? England is blessed with some of the best day hikes in the world, with stunning landscapes and a wide range of terrains to challenge yourself. However, not all hike trails are beginner-friendly. Here are the best trails that are perfect for newbie hikers: Fairy Pools (Isle of Skye): short with easy to walk paths Seven Sisters Cliffs (South Downs National Park): longer but with easy to walk paths Jurassic Coast (Dorset): longer but with easy to walk paths The Llangollen Canal (Shropshire): you can walk in sections; some are very easy and well-marked The Norfolk Coast Path (Norfolk): longer but with easy to walk paths White Cliffs of Dover (Kent): moderate length, no dramatic terrains What Day Hikes Can You Go From London By Train? Day hikes are perfect to incorporate into your London travel itinerary. However, not all hikes are easily accessible from London, especially if you’re travelling by train. Picking a hike too far away from the city can cost you an extra day getting there, which you probably don’t want. Here are the day hikes you can go from London by train: Box Hill (Surrey): about 1 to 2 hours and a half Cotswold (Gloucestershire): approximately 2-3 hours Seven Sisters Cliffs (South Downs National Park): approximately 2-3 hours Other hikes might not be close to London, but if you’re planning a multiple-stop vacation in England, there are hikes that are near other popular cities in the UK, such as Kinder Scout (near Manchester) and South Downs Way (start in Winchester). How To Pack For A Day Hike? The right backpack and good packing keep a hike hassle-free. The best way to pack for a day hike starts with choosing the right backpack. Your backpack is your closest hiking companion (literally!). So, it’s important that it doesn’t weigh you down, dig into your back painfully, hard to reach your gear, and sit awkwardly on your back. CabinZero’s advice: Choose one that is made for hiking adventures. Some backpacks are great for a beach trip, while some are designed to be with you on a hike. Our recommendation is CabinZero’s ADV line backpacks. They are made for outdoor adventures, with quick-access pockets, durable material, and good water-resistant coating. Then you’ll need to follow smart packing techniques. For example, instead of folding your items and stacking them on top of each other, try rolling. This way, you can arrange them vertically or horizontally as you see fit. The Best Day Hikes In England Are Not Hard To Find Now that you’ve made your choice about the best day hikes in England to put on your travel checklist, the last thing to do is to remember to practise safe travel. Hiking requires a lot of physical effort and careful planning to perfect, so don’t rush your journey and take it easy! If you find our list useful, don’t forget to leave us a nice comment or reach out to us via social media. Nguyen Tran Gia Khanh