Sometimes the best way to travel is simply by foot, and according to new data from Trainline, hiking has seen a surge in popularity amongst young people looking to reconnect with nature. Fortunately the UK has no shortage of scenic trails to wander along, and while some more remote routes might require a car, plenty can be reached by hopping on the train.
Revealing that half of Gen Z-ers said they prefer spending time outdoors than going to the pub, Trainline has shared some of the UK’s best hiking routes that cost less than £10 as more young people swap pints for peaks. Country Director at Trainline, Sarah Helppi, said: “These hikes are perfect for those looking to escape the city, connect with friends or partners, and enjoy the beauty of the great British outdoors without breaking the bank.” However, if you are looking to head out on a hike, the experts at Trainline recommend booking your trip ahead of time, and grabbing them 12 weeks in advance could see you save up to 60% on tickets.
Easy Trails
1. Manchester – Hollingworth Lake Circular
A scenic waterside walk featuring swans and herons, and the dramatic South Pennine hills in the distance, this route takes just over an hour to complete.
Directions: Take the train from Manchester Victoria to Smithy Bridge, which is a short 15 minute walk from the start of the trail, and will cost you £8.30 for an off-peak return ticket.
2. Nottingham – Attenborough Nature Reserve Loop
One of the UK’s top urban nature reserves, this peaceful route passes by the River Trent and includes a chance to see multiple bird hides that are home to kingfishers and herons.
Directions: Easily done in an hour or two, the trail is reached by taking a 10-minute train from Nottingham to Attenborough, costing £3.90 for an anytime day return.
3. Liverpool – Formby Red Squirrel Loop
A National Trust site home to pine forests and one of the UK’s last strongholds for red squirrels, the trail also features a tranquil beach. Taking around half an hour to complete, it’s ideal for those wanting a more gentle wander.
Directions: An anytime day return from Liverpool Central to Formby costs £6.95, and the trail is located a 30-minute walk from the station.
4. Southampton – Romsey Riverside and Canal Loop
Passing Romsey Abbey, one of the largest parish churches in England, this two hour walk tours one of Hampshire’s prettiest market towns along the River Test.
Directions: Hop on the train at Southampton Central to Romsey, which will cost you £6 for an off-peak day return.
Moderate Trails
5. Bristol – Weston-Super-Mare Coastal Walk
A breezy coastal walk along Weston Bay Beach and a chance to scale Uphill Beacon for panoramic views over the Somerset Levels, this route takes just over two hours to complete.
Directions: Grab an off-peak day return from Bristol Temple Meads Station to Weston-Super-Mare Station, where the walk starts, for £9.30.
6. Edinburgh – North Berwick Loop
Made up of coast, hill and a pretty town, this moderately-paced two hour hike starts with a beach stroll before climbing up North Berwick Law, a volcanic hill with views of Firth of Forth.
Directions: Head to North Berwick from Edinburgh Waverley, and grab an off-peak day return ticket for £9.10.
7. Birmingham – Lickey Hills
Ideal for half a day of walking, this six-mile trail takes you up to Beacon Hill, one of Birmingham’s highest points.
Directions: The walk starts at Barnt Green Station, with tickets from Birmingham New Street costing £6 for an off-peak day return.
8. Cardiff – Caerphilly Mountain Loop
A walk through moorlands, country lanes and up to the top of Caerphilly Mountain can be done in just over three hours on this moderate and hilly trail.
Directions: Reach Caerphilly from Cardiff Central by grabbing an anytime day return for £5.77 and head to the mountain from the station.
9. Oxford – Banbury Fringe Circular Walk
Heading past canal towpaths, through green fields and the Cherwell Valley makes for a peaceful rural hike. Measuring 10 miles in total, shorter routes are available that take around four hours.
Directions: Get to Banbury from Oxford for £8.70 with an off-peak day return ticket.
Hard Trails
10. Leeds – Harden Valley Circular
The most challenging route on the list, this route stretching through the countryside features ancient woodland and the Goit Stock Waterfall, as well as views over the Aire Valley, taking up to six hours to complete.
Directions: Start the walk at Bingley Station by getting an anytime day return ticket for £9.20 from Leeds.