Top winter walks

Winter is the perfect time to wrap up warm, throw on some wellies and go for an invigorating walk. Blow away the cobwebs along blustery coastal paths, or take a frosty Christmas or Boxing Day stroll. You can go on a guided walk with one of our rangers or go your own way with one of our downloadable trails.

Wicken Fen - Konik ponies and horses in frost

East of England 

There’s something magical about walking in winter – from hearing the frosty grass crunch under your boots to seeing low-lying mists sweeping along the ground. Whether you’re seeking out winter wildlife at Wicken Fen in Cambridgeshire, scaling the heights of Dunstable Downs in Bedfordshire or wandering along Norfolk’s coastline, this is the perfect time to wrap up warm and get outside.

Escape outside this winter
A wooden bridge over Burbage Brook

Midlands 

When it comes to wintery walks, the Midlands have plenty to offer. The Peak District is the perfect playground for anyone in search of slightly more rugged terrain, or the reward of breathtaking views after climbing up a big hill. Don’t worry if you prefer to keep your feet on the ground though, as there are also plenty of gentle routes through historic gardens and countryside to enjoy all across the region.

Take a frosty stroll
Three stags on frosty morning by the Cage at Lyme, Cheshire

North of England 

Winter is the time to pull on your boots, wrap up warm and head out on a walk. Maybe you’ll get to see the crisp morning mists lying over Derwentwater in the Lake District, spot wildlife on a leisurely stroll around Malham Tarn or breathe in the sea air on the rugged Northumberland coastline.

Find a walk near you in the North of England
Climb to the top of Divis Mountain for panoramic views of Belfast

Northern Ireland 

It might be cold outside, but there are still plenty of reasons to head out for a wintery stroll in Northern Ireland. Will you enjoy the salty tang of sea air at Portstewart Strand, clamber to the top of Divis and the Black Mountain or find splashes of colour in the garden at Florence Court? Wherever you go, you’re sure to feel revived after a good walk in the fresh air.

Take a hike
Visitors walk in Stowe in winter

South East 

There’s no better way to stave off the winter blues than escaping outside for a walk. We’ve got plenty of routes to explore in the South East, so you can wander beside frost-rimmed rivers in London, roam high across the Downs on the Isle of Wight, or wend your way through the trees in the New Forest.

Find a winter walk near you
Killerton house in the mist

South West 

From the windswept clifftops and high moors of Devon and Cornwall to the rolling fields of Somerset, you’ll never be short of new landscapes to explore in the South West. The trails are often quieter in winter too, so why not pull on your walking boots and head out to explore in the crisp fresh air?

Explore the South West on a winter walk
Enjoy a winter walk through the parkland at Dinefwr

Wales 

Winter is the best time to see Welsh landscapes at their most dramatic. Adventurous souls can hike their way through mountainous terrain or beside secluded waterfalls, which really come to life after the winter rains. If that sounds a bit too strenuous then you can opt for one of the gentler routes instead, which still offer plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, enjoy far-reaching views and take some time to unwind.

Get some fresh air
Frosty winter walk

Walking for wellbeing

It can sometimes be hard to get out and about when the days get shorter. But the colder seasons can surprise you with some refreshing walks. Why not try some mindful walking to get ready for the new year? With hundreds of special woodlands and parks in our care, there's plenty of space to find a new route this winter.

Walking meditations can be done for as long or as little as you need, and any time spent walking can reunite you with how your body and mind work together. Even seemingly normal walks, like the walk to work or from the supermarket to your car, can be opportunities for mindfulness.

Read more in the Mindfulness book by Gill Hasson.

Map reading in the Peak District

Guided winter walks 

If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about the work we do to care for special places, then joining a guided walk is a great way to find out more. This winter our knowledgeable staff and volunteers will be leading walks at our places all across the country, including several special New Year’s Day events. Wrap up warm and come along to experience our places at their seasonal best.

Sika deer at Knole

Get closer to wildlife 

Whether you fancy a gentle stroll, or something a bit more demanding, why not get into the outdoors and explore on our winter wildlife walks?