The Ridgeway Path

The journey begins in Wiltshire and ends in Buckinghamshire, spanning a total of 85.5 miles. it is rated as an easy hike, the average completion time between five and seven days. Along the trail can be found a neolithic tomb built sometime around 2800 BCE. If this may feel a bit too ancient for some, one may also choose to experience the Red Lion, located in Wandover where Oliver Cromwell frequented in the 17th century.

Historic monuments are not all this trail has to offer. The path winds through some of the most idyllic scenery imaginable; verdant green hills rolling gently, every so often punctuated by quaint country houses. When passing through the Chiltern Hills, vast varieties of trees and plants can be found along with a striking plethora of orchids.

Photo by djim

The Thames Path

As the name implies, this walk begins at the source of the river and ends at its estuary. It stretches approximately 180 miles and takes between twelve to fourteen days to complete depending on one´s desire. Some of the main attractions include the Hampton Court Palace and Sutton Courtenay, the site where George Orwell is interred.

In addition to awe-inspiring views of the natural landscape, one also has the privilege to stroll through the heart of Britain´s fascinating capital city. Also keep in mind that the rather dubious reputation of the Thames as being one of the most polluted rivers in the United Kindgom no longer implies. Rather, many species of fish and waterfowl can be seen, including salmon. With finding local accommodations never a problem, this route proves to be one of the most popular for tourists and natives alike.

Hadrian´s Wall

This path is likely one of the most famous due to its historic nature. Built during the times of Roman Occupation, to follow the entire course of this ancient monument takes approximately one week. Numerous forts still stand, including one at Chesters and another at Segendunum which has now been converted into a museum.

Notwithstanding the unforgettable panoramic views of this fortification, this track effectively represents a true journey from east to west across England. Large sections of this wall still exist quite intact though it must be noted that some of the journey can require proper map reading skills and the correct type of walking shoes.

Photo by quisnovus

The Pennine Way

If a separation from civilisation is what one desires, this path is certain to satisfy. The entire length is nearly 300 miles and can prove to be one of the most challenging journeys in all of the United Kingdom.

As this trek is considered to be one of the most technically demanding, its achievement is as equally rewarding to the hearty outdoorsman or woman. Camping equipment is considered mandatory along with a compass and experience in dealing with terrain in which the path may occasionally disappear. Although there are numerous accommodations along the route, there are other stretches at the very beginning and end where none exist, therefore leaving the traveler to rely on wits and experience alone.

These are but a handful examples of the diverse terrain and cultural experiences which the United Kingdom has to offer. Both novice and experienced trekkers can enjoy these options and countless others. With a simple online search and planning, these excursions can be an unforgettable experience.

Whether your a professional ambler or just enjoy a brisk walk in the english country air, you can’t really go wrong with a pair of decent thermal walking socks from Sealskinz, who specialise in waterproof clothing.

The post The UK’s Most Scenic Countryside Treks appeared first on Best of European Union.

Tennyson Trail, Isle of Wight / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by David Jones

The world is filled with stunning and breathtaking landscapes, but did you know that some of the best are right on your doorstep? If you are anything like me you’ve probably spent your whole life living in the UK but have yet to see all of this small isle’s best beauty spots. From picturesque locations ideal for an afternoon stroll to more challenging hikes set against a fantastic backdrop, here is my run down of the top 7 must-see, must-do walks in the UK…

Tennyson Trail, Isle of Wight (14 miles)

One for experienced hikers, this difficult but rewarding trail is so named because the poet Tennyson loved this challenging, up-and-down walk for the whole 40 years that he lived on the island in the 19th century, describing it as ‘noble down’.

Follow this marked trail and go back in time and you follow in Tennyson’s footsteps and view the scenery that inspired some of his best work, from the forbidding Carisbrooke Castle that imprisoned Charles I before he was executed in 1649, to the towering heights of Alum Bay which is the perfect spot for a lunch break before you head back down to Earth.

Ridgeway and Watlington Hill, Oxfordshire (8.5 miles)

For a more manageable walk suited to newer hikers, the beautiful Chiltern Hills are a hidden gem of the English countryside. From Lewknor village you move to a stunning nature reserve that is arguably Oxfordshire’s finest spot of natural beauty. Continue through the almost deserted Wormsley Valley with nature as your only companion, before heading through a delightful forest and up onto the chalky landscapes of Watlington Hill.

The Roaches, Staffordshire (8.5 miles)

Close to the famous Peak District lies this often-overlooked location, the perfect alternative when you want to avoid well-trodden paths and discover a quieter but no less beautiful area. Similar in length and pace, this dramatic landscape provides a stark contrast between the towering rocky summits and the lush green plains that you will see stretched out for miles and miles before you from the summit, Hen Cloud.

Malvern Hills, Worcestershire (10 miles)

The ideal choice for the amateur hiker, this relatively easy hike can be walked in around half a day and then a Hopper bus will take you back to the starting line at Great Malvern for a much deserved cup of tea in this picturesque Victorian spa resort. Following the gently sloping path upwards from St Anne’s Well you will traverse some of the UK’s finest woods and cross a beautiful open plain before reaching the hill’s summit, where a relaxing walk along the ridge will lead you to the bus service.

Malvern Hills, Worcestershire / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by TomGough

Coast to Coast, The Lake District (190 miles)

Not for the faint of heart, this 12-day walk is an absolute must for any true lover of the great outdoors. At just under 200 miles this trail is challenging but unmissable, offering breathtaking scenery and a last glimpse at an area of the UK that has not been tarnished by industrial development.  Start at St Bee’s head in the West where the walk is harder but the scenery is all the more stunning, reaching some of England’s highest grounds. Then leave the coastline behind you as you make for the famous Yorkshire moors, following through to an easy but delightful walk across the Eastern side to a grand finale at the historic Robin Hood’s Bay.

Manningtree to Dedham (4 miles)

The perfect beginner’s hike, this short and peaceful trail through the flat, open lands of South-East England starts at Manningtree rail station and passes across the wildlife-rich, rural marshlands of Flatford that was the inspiration behind Constable’s better-known words such as The Mill Stream. Literary walkers will want to stop at the National Trust’s Bridge Cottage on the way to discover more about this great author, before returning to Manningtree.

Preseli Mountains, Pembrokeshire (9 miles)

From the idyllic seaside town of Newport this lovely trail takes you up the side of the heather-wrapped mountain Carn Ingli. Continue across open moors and lonely woods in the deserted Gwaun Valley, before doubling back on a different set of ancient paths that lead back down the mountain to Newport.

Preseli Mountains, Pembrokeshire / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Felix O

Have you been on some great hikes recently? Tell us all about it!

Kate Dawson is a keen writer who blogs for Optegra on a regular basis. Optegra are specialist eye care providers who provide many treatments such as cataracts treatment for a number of eye conditions, such as glaucoma.

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