A spot of fresh air and a good brisk and bracing walk can do wonders for the soul. It’s no wonder then that countryside strolls have become a quintessential part of British culture. What’s more, the recent heat wave is providing the perfect opportunity to don your walking boots and step out without getting too muddy. If you fancy making make the most of the weather, then gather some family or friends and book a little break to enjoy a change of scenery. We’ve picked out some of the best British walks to help you plan a rejuvenating holiday this summer.
For history lovers – Durrington Walls
Lots of people have been to Stonehenge, but very few explore the whole of the World Heritage Site. Start at nearby Woodhenge in Wiltshire and you can walk your way around Durrington Walls, past the Cuckoo Stone and on to New King Barrows, which is an impressive row of Bronze Age burial mounds. Stay in our Amesbury Stonehenge hotel to combine this with a visit to the more famous parts of the site.
For stunning views – Manifold Valley
The Peak District offers some of the most scenic of those classic British hills, and you’ll see the best of them on a walk through the Manifold Valley. Sleep at our Ashbourne hotel and then make your way to Wetton to see the picturesque village and explore Thor’s Cave. From there, enjoy the walk along the river to Ilam Park, where there are wonderful views of the Dovedale National NatureReserve.
For wildlife fans – Slimbridge Bird Sanctuary
There aren’t only sights to appreciate on many British walks; there are sounds too. Stay in our Stonehouse hotel where you’ll be just next to Slimbridge Bird Sanctuary. A walk through the grounds will be a feast for your ears, with a host of different calls to be heard. Try a guided walk from the Wetland Centre if you want to learn about what you’re hearing and also spotting rare birds too.
For foodies – Whitcliffe and Bread Walk
Book a room in our Ludlow hotel and you’ll be in the heart of the foodiest town in the UK. There are excellent food markets here and several of the best restaurants in the country. For the walk that will get you past many of them, begin at Ludlow Castle, cross over Dinham Bridge and picnic on Millennium Green. Then continue on the Bread Walk path – which bizarrely has little to do with bread – which will give you some excellent views of the town.
For young families – Box Hill Stepping Stones
The Box Hill area is the perfect place to take the kids for a wander, with two specially-designed nature trails. The Play Trail is full of trees to climb, leaves to tumble in, tunnels, log bridges and rope swings. A more peaceful Stepping Stones path runs alongside, and both make a wonderful afternoon out. Our Redhill hotel is just a few miles down the road, so why not take the kids there for a long weekend?
