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The Best Walking and Cycling Routes in the UK

Some people like to spend their holidays on the sunloungers, but clearly, you’re not those people. Walking and cycling routes are a great way to see the sights and smell the sea breeze, without having to listen to the sat nav telling you to “make a U-turn”. Below we’ve put together a list of the best routes in the UK, as well as nearby spots to rest your weary legs.

A family enjoying a peaceful stroll to the Cornish coastline on a summers day.

Key takeaways

Discover the UK’s top walking and cycling routes, from coastal trails in Cornwall to woodland escapes in Lincolnshire.
Plan your journey with nearby accommodation, food stops, and rest points for the ultimate adventure.
Explore iconic routes like the South West Coast Path, Viking Way, and Isle of Wight’s Tennyson Down.
Family-friendly and beginner options available, alongside challenging hikes and cycling routes for pros.
Stay active with stunning views, hidden coves, wildlife reserves, and historic city walks across the UK.
Pair your adventure with Away Resorts stays near the best trails for comfort, convenience, and scenic views.

What is a walking or cycling route?

A walking or cycling route is as simple as it sounds: it’s a planned path with little stop-offs along the way. The main difference between a designated walking or cycling route and a regular walk is that they take a little longer- rather than taking you directly to a destination, they’re as much about soaking in the views and the scenery. Walking routes can span miles of coastline or countryside. Some people prefer to take a road trip, but it’s just as popular to cycle or walk the most popular routes.

How to prepare for your walking and cycling route

To make the most of your journey, you’ll want to be fully prepared. And whilst there’s no need for a survival pack, picking the right walking route, places to stay and emergency pick-me-ups make the trip worth the blisters!

Accommodation

After a long day on the road, you’re going to want somewhere comfy to relax. You’ve already done enough walking, so choosing somewhere to stay that’s not too far from your route is a great way to save your energy. Plus, walking and cycling routes wind through some of the UK’s most scenic locations, so nearby places to stay are likely to benefit from the same jaw-dropping views.

Food and drink

On longer routes, you’re sure to work up a hell of an appetite, so you’ll want to pack plenty of snacks and water. If you’re driven by your stomach, it helps if you know you’ve got a spot for dinner sorted at the end of the day. Look for accommodation with on-site bars and restaurants so that you don’t need to travel far for a slap-up meal after your busy day.

Equipment

If you’re planning on bringing your bike along for the ride (get it?), you’ll want to make sure you have everything you need. The last thing you want to do is get caught out on a long cycling route with a flat tyre, so make sure you bring along any equipment you might need- whether that’s a bike pump or a puncture repair kit. Cycling not your style? Walking routes can still be pretty intense, so don’t be afraid to bring along a walking stick to help you make it up those extra tricky hillsides.

The best walking and cycling routes in Cornwall

Cornwall is packed with incredible touring routes, whether you’re exploring on foot or by bike. Here are some of the best paths to follow to soak up its stunning coastline, countryside, and charming towns:

South West Coast Path (Cornwall section)

The Cornwall section of the South West Coast Path runs from the Cornwall-Devon border near Bude in the north, down around Land’s End, and up to the Cornwall-Devon border near Plymouth in the south. It’s a stunning and challenging part of the full 630-mile route, perfect for long-distance hikers or those looking to dip into shorter scenic sections.

Total length: 300 miles (round trip)
A dramatic cliff-top walk with jaw-dropping views, secret coves, and a wild, rugged vibe.
Walking route: cycling is not permitted or practical on the majority of the route due to steep, uneven terrain.

Lizard Peninsula Circular Walk

This walk captures the raw beauty of Cornwall’s southern coast, looping from Lizard village past hidden coves, rare wildlife habitats, and striking rock formations. Ideal for a half-day hike with plenty of photo stops, it’s one of the most rewarding short routes.

Total length: Approx. 7 miles
A wild and windswept circular route around the UK’s most southerly point, offering breathtaking sea views, dramatic cliffs, and the iconic Kynance Cove.
Walking route and cycling route: This route isn’t stabiliser-friendly, with rugged, uneven terrain making it suitable for experienced mountain bikers only.

Padstow to Stepper Point Walk

Starting from the charming harbour town of Padstow, the route winds along the South West Coast Path to Stepper Point’s iconic Daymark Tower. It’s a relaxed, family-friendly walk with big views and even bigger picnic potential.

Total length: Approx. 5.8 miles (round trip)
A gentle yet spectacular coastal walk offering panoramic views over the Camel Estuary and out to the Atlantic, with a good chance of spotting seals and seabirds along the way.
Walking route: Not suitable for cycling- this is a walking trail with narrow cliff paths and uneven ground.

Bodmin Moor – Brown Willy & Rough Tor

This circular walk explores the dramatic landscape of Bodmin Moor, climbing both Rough Tor and Brown Willy, and passing Bronze Age remains and granite outcrops along the way. A must for nature lovers and those looking to escape the crowds.

Total length: Approx. 5 miles (round trip)
A rugged moorland adventure taking you to the highest point in Cornwall, with sweeping views, ancient tors, and a real sense of solitude. Wild, atmospheric, and perfect for walkers who like their routes a little off the beaten track.
Walking and cycling route: This route features rocky, uneven ground and steep climbs across open moorland, so best not to bring the little ones if you’re planning on cycling.

Places to stay near walking and cycling routes in Cornwall

Cruising Cornwall’s coastal routes? Pull over and stay a while at these top-notch Away Resorts spots! St Ives Bay is right on the beach- perfect for strolls along the dunes (if your feet aren’t too tired!), surfing, and dreamy sunsets. Newquay Bay is a surfer’s paradise, nestled in a lush valley with cracking access to waves and nightlife. Bude Holiday Resort offers cliffside cool and a chilled family vibe, with nature walks just steps away. Perfect for wave-chasing or cream tea-guzzling, there’s a cosy park nearby to crash in style. Walking and cycling’s tiring, so treat yourself to a comfy lodge and a Cornish pasty (or three).

Top walking and cycling routes in Lincolnshire

Want to stretch your legs in the wilds of nature? Lincolnshire offers up some incredible places to explore, covering everything from magical woodlands to rolling valleys and quaint villages. Pack some snacks, mark some rest spots on your map, and get ready for days filled with incredible sights.

Viking Way (Lincoln to Oakham)

This well-marked route begins near Lincoln Cathedral and winds through the Lincolnshire Wolds, market towns, and rural farmland. Take on the full distance or tackle it in stages, the Viking Way is a rewarding walk packed with variety and local charm.

Total length: Approx. 147 miles (full route)
A scenic long-distance trail stretching from the historic city of Lincoln down to Oakham in Rutland, taking in rolling countryside, quiet villages, and peaceful woodland paths. A great choice for walkers seeking a mix of heritage and tranquillity.
Walking route: Some sections are suitable for cycling, but large parts are footpath-only and not practical for bikes.

Gibraltar Point Nature Reserve Walk

Located just south of Skegness, Gibraltar Point is a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife lovers. Wander along waymarked trails, spot migratory birds, and enjoy the unspoiled coastal landscape that changes beautifully with the seasons.

Total length: Approx. 3–6 miles (varied routes available)
A peaceful, flat walk through one of Lincolnshire’s most beautiful nature reserves, with sweeping views of salt marshes, sand dunes, and big open skies. Perfect for a slower pace and a chance to reconnect with nature.
Walking route: This is a dedicated walking area with protected habitats and narrow trails, so pack your boots and binoculars, not your bike pump!

Hubbards Hills, Louth

Located just outside the market town of Louth, Hubbards Hills offers a peaceful escape with a touch of storybook charm. Short, sweet, and full of natural beauty, it’s a favourite spot for locals and visitors alike.

Total length: Approx. 2–4 miles (depending on route)
A gentle, scenic walk through a picturesque wooded valley carved by the River Lud, complete with grassy slopes, ancient trees, and a charming stone bridge. Ideal for a relaxed afternoon stroll or a family picnic.
Walking route: Not suitable for cycling: this is a dedicated walking area with footpaths, riverbanks, and uneven ground.

Lincoln City Walk

This self-guided route is ideal for exploring Lincoln at your own pace. Stop for coffee in quirky cafes, browse independent shops, and soak up centuries of history in one of England’s most picturesque small cities.

Total length: Approx. 3 miles (round trip)
A historic city walk packed with character, from the lively waterfront to the cobbled charm of Steep Hill and the stunning architecture of Lincoln Cathedral and Lincoln Castle.
A perfect mix of culture, history, and scenic city views.
Walking route: Not suitable for cycling- this is a pedestrian-friendly route with narrow streets, steep inclines, and historic steps.

Places to stay near walking and cycling routes in Lincolnshire

Planning a Lincolnshire tour? Park up and chill at these cheeky Away Resorts gems! For woodland wanderers, Tattershall Lakes is a cracker: wakeboarding, hot tubs, cycle hire and even outdoor cinema nights. And don’t miss Cleethorpes Pearl, a seaside smash with fab entertainment and that old-school British holiday magic. Tour, explore, then kick back in comfort with a pint or a paddle in the pool!

Top walking routes in the Isle of Wight

Home to more views than your camera has storage for, the Isle of Wight boasts some of the UK’s most stunning walking routes. Pack your bags and get ready to explore the island from one end to the other, taking in miles of Jurassic Coast, impressive cliff tops and picture-perfect scenery.

Tennyson Down Walk

Ideal for a peaceful morning or sunset stroll, this walk delivers one of the island’s most iconic views. Bring your camera- and your walking boots- for a windswept adventure.

Total length: Approx. 4.5 miles (round trip)
A breathtaking coastal walk across rolling chalk cliffs, offering panoramic views over the English Channel and across to the mainland. The route takes you from Freshwater Bay up to the Tennyson Monument, honouring the poet who once called this area home.
Walking route: Not suitable for cycling- this is a cliff-top path with steep climbs, uneven ground, and narrow sections.

Shanklin to Ventnor (Coastal Path)

Reward yourself with tea by the sea or a cheeky swim at either end, this route is sure to give you the best of the island’s seaside scenery.

Total length: Approx. 3.5 miles (one way)
A scenic walk that hugs the coastline, taking you from the traditional seaside town of Shanklin to the charming Victorian resort of Ventnor. Expect dramatic cliffs, hidden bays, and peaceful wooded paths.
Walking route: Not suitable for cycling; features steps, inclines, and unpaved stretches.

St Boniface Down Walk (from Ventnor)

Starting in Ventnor, the route winds uphill through wooded paths and open grassland, revealing panoramic island views from the summit. Great for those who love a climb with a view- just don’t be surprised if you’re out of breath by the time you reach the top!

Places to stay near walking and cycling routes on the Isle of Wight

Worn out feet after exploring the island? Make time to swap your walking boots for a deckchair! The Bay Colwell is a seaside gem with cosy lodges and hot tubs just steps from the shore…yes, please! Whitecliff Bay brings retro holiday magic with a private beach, outdoor cinema, and poolside relaxation for days.

For a slower pace, St Helens is your go-to, nestled in nature and perfect for peaceful strolls and wildlife spotting. All three are close to the island’s most scenic routes, so you’re never far from clifftop views or a cheeky cream tea. Park up, chill out, and enjoy!

Want to lock down the perfect spot to rest and relax after a busy day exploring? Get in touch with the team at Away Resorts today to find out more about our parks and to get planning your next adventure!