Explore Britain’s Iconic Trails: A Walker’s Dream Awaits

From Dramatic Coastlines to Rugged Highlands, Adventure Calls

Embark on an unforgettable journey across Britain’s most breathtaking landscapes. Whether you crave the salty spray of the coast, the solitude of the moors, or the echoes of history, a trail awaits to captivate your senses.

Coastal Vistas and Maritime History

The South West Coast Path, spanning 1014km, offers dramatic coastal scenery from Somerset to Dorset. This historic route, partly inspired by smugglers’ patrols, winds past rugged cliffs, abandoned tin mines, and charming fishing villages. Sections, like the four-day trek from St Ives to Penzance, are accessible via local transport.

The South West Coast Path showcases stunning scenery, including the medieval church at Church Cove, Gunwalloe.

For those who wish to circumnavigate an entire country’s shoreline, the Wales Coast Path presents an unparalleled 1400km adventure. Launched in 2012, it was the world’s first to follow a nation’s entire coastline, revealing millennia of history and diverse maritime vistas.

Crossing England’s Natural Wonders

The Coast to Coast Walk, a 306km route envisioned by the famed walker **Alfred Wainwright**, traverses northern England’s spectacular national parks. This west-to-east journey, typically completed in 12-14 days, takes adventurers through the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, and Yorkshire Moors.

Britain’s 10 best multi-day walks and hikes — Hikers on the Coast to Coast Walk navigate the picturesque terrain of northern England.

The Cleveland Way, a 177km horseshoe-shaped trail, highlights Yorkshire’s varied beauty. It winds from Helmsley through expansive heather moorlands of the North York Moors to the seaside town of Saltburn-by-the-Sea, then south along the coast to Filey Brigg. Highlights include charming fishing villages and the historic town of Whitby.

A Journey Through Time and Faith

St. Oswald’s Way, a 156km path opened in 2006, connects significant sites related to the 7th-century Anglo-Saxon king **St Oswald**. The six-day hike stretches from Heavenfield near Hadrian’s Wall to Holy Island, traversing rolling farmland, moorland, and dramatic coastlines dotted with ancient castles.

History buffs will also be drawn to Hadrian’s Wall Path, a 135km route following the ancient Roman frontier. This World Heritage site offers a journey through wild northern English countryside, showcasing remnants of forts, milecastles, and turrets built on the orders of Emperor Hadrian.

Conquering Rugged Terrain and Industrial Heritage

For those seeking a true challenge, the Pennine Way, Britain’s first National Trail, offers a demanding 431km route. Known for its challenging terrain, including notorious peat bogs, this trail now features improved paths. Starting in Edale, it ascends the spine of England to the Scottish border, with an ascent equivalent to climbing Mount Everest.

The Calderdale Way, a 80km circuit, explores the industrial heritage of West Yorkshire. This route circles mill towns like Hebden Bridge and Halifax, utilising ancient packhorse trails and canal towpaths. It offers views of medieval settlements and scenic valleys, with options to complete it in four day sections.

Calderdale Way near Ripponden. — The Calderdale Way presents a blend of industrial heritage and picturesque moorland views.

Scottish Highlands and Cinematic Landscapes

Scotland’s most popular long-distance trek, the West Highland Way, covers 154km from Milngavie to Fort William. This route immerses walkers in some of Britain’s most spectacular scenery, including wild mountains and lochs, often following ancient drovers’ roads. The final leg through Glen Nevis has served as a filming location for iconic movies.

Planning Your British Walking Adventure

The most popular time to explore these trails is during the summer months of June, July, and August, offering longer daylight and potentially better weather. However, early spring (April/May) and autumn (September/October) provide quieter, less crowded experiences with better accommodation availability.

Accommodation options range from cozy Bed & Breakfasts and local pubs to Airbnbs and hostels. Many long-distance trails offer “packhorse” services that arrange accommodation and transport luggage, allowing you to focus on the walk. Consider services like sherpavan.com for this convenience.

Essential gear includes worn-in hiking boots, waterproof outerwear, thermal layers, and walking poles, as Britain’s weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for varied conditions year-round.

Understanding the Sunday Scaries

The “Sunday scaries” is a relatable term for the anxious feelings many experience on the eve of a work week, as explained by experts. This anxiety isn’t exclusive to any group; it is frequently triggered by the uncertainty of the approaching days. The term has found its way into everyday language, amplified by social media trends.

Redmond, who created a popular TikTok video about the subject, shared mixed emotions about its widespread reception. While happy people relate to the feelings expressed, she also noted a sense of sadness associated with such widespread anxiety. She feels stuck, and many people in their mid- to late-20s share this feeling, as if they are running out of time.

The Root Causes of Pre-Monday Anxiety

According to a psychologist and neuroscientist, anticipating upcoming plans and facing an uncertain future is the source of anxiety. The situation mimics “morning anxiety,” which similarly stems from anticipating the day’s events. This sense of dread often intensifies as the work week looms closer.

Erik Davies, a physician, felt dread when anticipating his return to work after a vacation. The thought of checking emails and re-entering the clinic caused significant stress. Our jobs can hold tremendous power over our mental health, according to Morra Aarons-Mele, host of the podcast The Anxious Achiever.

“It really overtook my life. It’s visceral,” Aarons-Mele said. “Sunday scaries is a cute name, but the feeling isn’t cute.”

—Morra Aarons-Mele, Host of The Anxious Achiever

The workplace can significantly impact mental well-being because jobs are the source of financial stability and purpose. Worries about layoffs or economic instability can trigger these feelings. Aarons-Mele said that it’s okay to feel anxious about starting a new job or delivering a presentation, but if the feelings linger, it’s best to seek help.

It is estimated that 60% of American workers report experiencing workplace stress and anxiety, a clear illustration of the widespread nature of the problem (American Psychological Association, 2023).

Strategies for Managing Sunday Anxiety

One method for reducing the impact of the Sunday scaries is to reframe how you think about Sunday. Judson Brewer suggests that the term frames the day with “anxiety-colored glasses.” Because you can’t control Sunday turning into Monday, you can manage how you relate to and view the day.

Aarons-Mele suggests rehearsing the week’s plans before Sunday dinner, maybe including your family or partner. To reduce the sense of a loss of control, plan each day’s work and home responsibilities. Creating a detailed to-do list can also help manage anxiety.

Nitschke recommends tracking the positive moments of the week. Documenting positive feedback or enjoyable interactions with colleagues can provide evidence against those anxieties. Elizabeth Pearson, a supply chain manager, uses simple activities like calling her mother or walking her dog to stay grounded.

By understanding the causes and implementing coping strategies, individuals can reduce the impact of the Sunday scaries and improve their overall well-being.

youre

Britain’s 10 best multi-day walks and hikes