May is National Walking Month in the UK. So, what better way to celebrate than to dust off your hiking boots and head to the hills?

England and Wales have more than 2,500 miles (4,000 km) of National Trails, while Scotland’s Great Trails cover a further 1,900 miles (3,050 km). 

From jagged coastal paths to rolling moorland, you’ll find beautiful panoramic views and rich history. And all while enjoying bracing fresh air and exercise.

Keep reading for your look at some of the UK’s best walking routes to tackle in one go, or to chop up into bitesize pieces.

1. North Downs Way

The North Downs Way runs for 153 miles (246 km) from Farnham to Dover.

Partly following the ancient Pilgrim’s Way from Winchester to Canterbury Cathedral, one section traces the 990 AD route of Archbishop Sigeric, newly arrived from Rome. This section is designated a Cultural Route of the Council of Europe, showcasing Europe’s shared culture.

Take on the full route and you’ll experience more than 12,000 years of human history, from the neolithic period to second world war fortifications. 

The National Trail passes through two areas of outstanding natural beauty (AONB), the Surrey Hills and the Kent Downs, on its way to the famous white cliffs of Dover.

2. Norfolk Coast Path

Running from Hunstanton to Hopton-on-Sea, this coastal path passes for 84 miles (135 km) through the Norfolk Coast AONB.

Perfect if you’re just finding your feet after a winter of hibernation, the largely flat route encompasses seaside towns, salt marshes, and pine woodlands. 

You’ll also find a huge amount of wildlife and history. 

Stop at Blakeney Point to witness the largest seal colony in England or visit the 13th-century churches at Trimingham and the ruined tower of a Saxon church at Weybourne village.

3. South West Coast Path

England’s longest waymarked footpath is the South West Coast Path, at 630 miles (1,010 km). The 95-mile (153 km) stretch between Exmouth and Studland is known as the “Jurassic Coast”.

A world heritage site, it boasts jagged cliffs, uninterrupted sea views, and around 185 million years of history.

You’ll pass Lyme Regis, where Mary Anning uncovered what would later be revealed as England’s first complete ichthyosaur. Other notable landmarks include Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door, and Chesil Beach, the inspiration for Ian McEwan’s novel On Chesil Beach.

4. Glyndŵr’s Way

This 135-mile (217 km) route is named for a 1400s Welsh prince and encapsulates the beauty of mid-Wales between Knighton and Welshpool.

Expect dense woodland, extensive farmland, and rolling moors as well as some muscle-busting climbs. The full route (for which you’ll need around nine days) takes in the Cambrian Mountains and the Radnorshire Hills. 

If you don’t plan on walking the entire route, there are plenty of smaller, circular walks with plenty of points of interest and jaw-dropping views.

5. Pembrokeshire Coastal Path

Another mammoth National Trail that can be easily broken up into smaller, satisfying walks, the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path clocks in at 186 miles (299 km). Tackling the entire route in one go takes an average of 12 to 14 days.

Setting off from St Dogmaels, you’ll pass beautiful fishing villages and harbour towns, as well as St Davids (the UK’s smallest city). 

Your destination is the rugged and windblown sweep of sand at Amroth beach.

6. Fife Coastal Path, Fife

Officially opened in 2002, the Fife Coastal Path stretches for 93 miles (150 km) along the entire Fife coast. 

From North Queensferry, in the south, you’ll travel north to Tay Bridge. Along the way, you’ll encounter historic castles, working fishing villages, and award-winning beaches. The route also passes through the port and naval base at Rosyth, before ending with a view of the bridges across the Firth.

7. West Highland Way

Undoubtedly one for the seasoned hiker, the West Highland Way isn’t the longest trail on our list but it is one of the most challenging. 

The hardy few willing to brave the route will be rewarded by some of the most breathtaking views the British Isles has to offer. 

You’ll pass Loch Lomond, Glencoe, and Scotland’s second-highest waterfall, Steall Falls. Not to mention the 548-metre Devil’s Staircase. 

It is recommended that walkers tackle the route from south to north, allowing time to build strength and acclimatise. It does mean though that the Devil’s Staircase falls on day seven of an eight-day route plan.