Open Travel Guide
Hiking in England

England Hiking & Trekking Guide 2026

Where to walk in England — from easy half-days to serious treks, with honest difficulty grades.

By Updated Reviewed by Daniel Mercer

England has 5+ hiking trails covered in this guide, led by Scafell Pike Summit Route, Helvellyn via Striding Edge and Seven Sisters Clifftop Walk. Each entry below includes the practical details — what it costs, when to go, and how to plan around it.

England is the largest and most populous country of the United Kingdom, offering a remarkable blend of ancient history, vibrant cities, and stunning countryside. From the iconic streets of London to the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, rugged moors of Yorkshire, and dramatic coastlines of Cornwall, England captivates visitors with its extraordinary diversity. World-class museums, medieval castles, Shakespearean heritage, and a thriving arts and food scene make England one of the world's most rewarding travel destinations.

Top trails

Routes worth lacing up your boots for.

  1. 1

    Scafell Pike Summit Route

    12km5-7 hoursStrenuous985m ascent

    The ascent of England's highest mountain (978m) from Wasdale Head via the Hollow Stones path. Rocky terrain with spectacular views to four countries on a clear day. England's most celebrated summit.

  2. 2

    Helvellyn via Striding Edge

    14km5-7 hoursStrenuous850m ascent

    One of England's greatest ridge walks, crossing the narrow Striding Edge arête to Helvellyn (950m). The hands-and-feet scramble is thrilling and exposed; not suitable for young children or in icy conditions.

  3. 3

    Seven Sisters Clifftop Walk

    13km4-5 hoursModerate350m ascent

    England's most spectacular chalk cliff walk from Cuckmere Haven along the white Seven Sisters cliffs to Beachy Head (162m, the highest chalk sea cliffs in England). Stay well back from cliff edges.

  4. 4

    Malham Cove and Gordale Scar

    11km4-5 hoursModerate320m ascent

    A spectacular circular walk taking in Malham Cove (260m limestone cliff), the limestone pavement above, and Gordale Scar gorge with twin waterfalls requiring a short scramble.

  5. 5

    Kinder Scout Plateau from Edale

    12km4-5 hoursModerate-Strenuous450m ascent

    Kinder Scout is the Peak District's highest point (636m) and the site of the 1932 Mass Trespass that established England's right to roam. The wild peat plateau and Kinder Downfall waterfall are the highlights.

Trail difficulty levels

Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.

Easy

Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.

Moderate

Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.

Hard

Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.

Expert

Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.

Local hazards

What to watch out for on the trail.

High

Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.

Medium

Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.

Medium

Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.

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