Why the UK gets walking right

We hear it all the time from walkers: the UK just gets it right. One big reason is the sheer scale of the walking network. With over 225,000 kilometres of public footpaths, bridleways and trails, the UK offers one of the largest and most accessible networks in Europe. To put that in perspective, Italy has around 150,000 kilometres of trails, France about 100,000 kilometres including famous routes like the Le Puy Camino, which we love and proudly offer, and Spain with approximately 50,000 kilometres, home to the wonderful life-affirming Camino de Santiago. This UK’s vast network of trails means walkers can enjoy an incredible variety of routes, landscapes and experiences.

This unrivalled infrastructure includes iconic National Trails like the South West Coast Path, which runs for 1,016 kilometres, and the Coast to Coast Path stretching 303 kilometres. But it’s not just the big trails. There are hundreds of regional and local paths that weave through countryside, villages and coastlines, giving walkers countless options. That density and legal protection of paths mean hikers can walk almost anywhere – from the remote Scottish Highlands to the gentle Cotswold hills. On the Coast to Coast Path you literally walk through a farmer’s dairy shed – cows and all! The sheer variety of routes also means walkers spend remarkably little time on tarmac roads. It’s a key point of difference that enhances the hiking experience and helps protect your body over long distances.

What really sets the UK apart, beyond its size, is the history behind these paths. The UK’s network of public rights of way dates back centuries. These ancient routes have been trodden by generations long before us, connecting people, places and stories across time. Hiking here isn’t just exercise – it’s stepping into a living history. Many of our guests tell us it feels like being part of something much bigger. A shared journey that links past and present. You might be following a Roman road, a medieval pilgrimage trail or a path once used by local farmers and traders. That connection to the past adds a quiet but powerful dimension to the walk.

Walking in the UK is also made easier by clear, consistent signage. The familiar acorn symbol marks National Trails, while regional paths feature fingerposts and waymarks are generally placed just where you need them (okay, maybe not the Coast to Coast just yet!). So you can relax, look around and let the trail guide you – with little app-checking required. And if you want extra support, there are plenty of guidebooks, maps and digital tools to help. This thoughtful infrastructure takes the stress out of navigation and gives walkers the freedom to focus on the experience.

One of the biggest pleasures of exploring on foot here is the variety of landscapes. Imagine starting your day under the dappled light of ancient woods, crossing windswept moorland by afternoon and finishing with sweeping views of the sea. Trails like Hadrian’s Wall and the Cotswold Way each tell their own story, shaped by the landscapes they cross. Beyond these famous routes there are lesser-known gems like the peaceful South Downs Way or the quiet beauty of the Arran Coastal Way, waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re after mountain views, lush farmland, dramatic cliffs or charming villages, the UK delivers.

The practical side has been well thought through too. Daily distances are sensible and most routes keep away from traffic, offering peace and quiet. Accommodation is spaced well to suit foot traffic, with options ranging from historic inns and cosy guesthouses to boutique hotels. Many places understand walkers’ needs, offering drying rooms, hearty breakfasts and packed lunches. This kind of seamless support is especially appreciated by those new to walking holidays – or anyone who simply wants to enjoy their days without worry.

Another advantage is the seasons. The UK isn’t just for summer hiking. Mild springs and autumns offer perfect conditions, with fewer crowds and rich colours. Summer brings long daylight hours and blooming hedgerows. This seasonal rhythm adds another layer of richness to every journey and means there’s almost always a good time to walk.

Sustainability is also a central part of the UK rambling experience. Many of the trails are maintained by organisations like the National Trust, who work hard to protect access and preserve the landscapes. Travelling by foot means you’re engaging in a low-impact way to travel – one that connects deeply with nature while treading lightly. And because many walks pass through small communities, every stop at a tearoom or overnight stay in a family run B&B supports local economies. It’s travel that’s meaningful. As a certified B Corp, we’re proud to support those that align with these values by reducing environmental impact, championing local businesses and helping ensure these landscapes can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Importantly, UK trails welcome everyone. Whether you’re after gentle, accessible paths perfect for older walkers or those with limited mobility, or rugged mountain routes for the adventurous, you’ll find something here. Whether you prefer self-guided hiking or joining a guided Coast to Coast group, there are plenty of options to suit your style. Many of our guests return again and again, knowing each trail offers something new.

What really makes your adventure here special isn’t just the kilometres covered, it’s the people you meet and the places you pass through. Friendly locals, bustling village pubs and inviting tearooms create warm social stops along the way. Historic churches, Roman forts and centuries-old villages fill the journey with stories. This blend of nature, culture and community transforms every walk into an experience that stays with you long after you’ve hung up your boots.

As one guest said to me after finishing the Cotswold Way: “Walking in the UK feels like stepping into a story that’s been unfolding for centuries”.