Brits love exploring our countryside. With only around 5%five percent of UK land actually being built on, there is plenty to immerse yourself in in terms of nature.
Consumer group Which? have compiled a list of the best walks in the country. They are all walkable in a day, and are ranked in terms of scenery, difficulty and food and drink.
The list is spread around the nation, with strolls and hikes located in England, Scotland and Wales being included. The results were based on almost 3,000 experiences from 1,310 ‘Which Connect’ members.
Taking the top spot is the Lizard peninsula circuit, found in Southern Cornwall. It has an overall score of 87 percent, and is described by Which? as “the place to head for a blow-away-the-cobwebs walk”.
The seven-mile route takes around three hours to complete, beginning at the village of Lizard, which is the most southerly region on the British mainland.
It scores high on its dramatic scenery, with plenty of wildflowers and unique wildlife located en-route, including red-legged choughs (a type of bird) and seals.
It scored a 3 on difficulty, and a 5/5 for its stunning natural beauty. Its signage and peace and quiet scored 4 each, and for both parking and food and drink it scored 3.
One reviewer on TripAdvisor said that the walk has “brisk wind and plenty of fresh air”, whilst another exclaimed that they “could write a book on this spectacular piece of coastline”.
Another also praised the walk, giving it five stars but also pointing out that it is hard to get a pushchair down to certain parts, such as Kynance Cove.
Other walks that made the list include the Rhossili headland walk in Wales, another coastal walk praised for its outstanding scenery.
Also featured is Fife’s Crail to Anstruther in Scotland, which links fishing villages with their stone harbours and other historic sites.
Speaking on the UK’s abundance of wonderful walks, Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel said: “The UK has an amazing variety of walks and our list highlights how there is beautiful scenery to enjoy in every corner of the country.
“From historic ruins, beautiful shorelines and seal spotting, our research shows you don’t have to be a seasoned hiker and many walks also include cosy cafes and charming local pubs if you do need a rest and some refreshments”.