11 best spring walks in the UK
As we begin to say goodbye to dark, cold nights and welcome the first signs of spring, we’re looking forward to venturing outdoors and exploring the Great British countryside. Whether you’re eager to tick a hiking challenge off your bucket list or prefer a gentle stroll along the coast, here’s our round-up of the best spring walks in the UK.
1. Silurian Way
Location: Lake District
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: Nine miles
Duration: Five hours
Silurian Way takes you along enchanting woodland paths through the beautiful Grizedale Valley in the Lake District. This hidden gem passes by sculptures and the forest’s characterful grey slate and shale rock formations that date back to the Silurian geological period.
Starting point: Grizedale Visitor Centre, Grizedale, Ambleside LA22 0QJ
2. Lynmouth to Watersmeet
Location: Devon
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3.7 miles
Duration: Three hours
Lynmouth to Watersmeet trail is a popular circular walk in the South West with locals and visitors, and it’s not hard to see why. Stroll along the energetic East Lyn River at this time of year and you’ll see plenty of butterflies, birds and fish. Plus there are lots of spots to sit and have a picnic as you enjoy this breathtaking part of Devon.
Starting point: Lynmouth Car Park, The Esplanade, Lynmouth EX35 6EQ
3. Farndale Daffodil Walk
Location: Yorkshire
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3.5 miles
Duration: Two hours
A colourful display of wild daffodils and cheery spring flowers are the main attraction on the Farndale Daffodil Walk. Nestled in the heart of the North York Moors National Park, there are stunning views of Yorkshire’s countryside for miles around. Visit between mid-March and mid-April to see the flowers in all their glory.
Starting point: Low Mill Car Park, Low Mill, North York Moors National Park, York YO62 7UY
4. The Clwydian Range
Location: Wales
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 17.5 miles
Duration: Nine hours
If you’re up for the challenge, this 17.5 mile walk will reward you with breathtaking views of The Clwydian Range – a dramatic landscape of mountains, valleys and woodland in Wales. Highlights include a visit to Denbigh Castle, climbing Moel Famau, and the Iron Age forts at Penycloddiau. You could always split the walk up into two days if you prefer.
Starting point: St Stephen Church, Bodfari, Denbigh LL16 4EB
5. Paradise Walk at Ilam Park
Location: Peak District
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: One mile
Duration: 30 minutes
Heading to the Peak District? Don’t miss the Paradise Walk at Ilam Park. In spring, you’ll get to experience the fragrant wild garlic that grows along the River Manifold. Stroll over open fields and woodland, enjoying amazing views over Dovedale. Extend your walk to the famous Dovedale stepping stones for the perfect photo opportunity.
Starting point: Ilam Park Visitor Centre, Ilam, Ashbourne DE6 2AZ
6. Hornecourt Wood
Location: Surrey
Difficulty: Medium
Distance: Two miles
Duration: 1.5 hours
This National Trust walk will show you the true beauty of Surrey’s rolling hills. Wander through open fields and ancient woodland. Stop for a moment in Hornecourt Wood to admire the beautiful green leaves and spring flowers – including bluebells and wood anemones.
Starting point: Outwood Common Car Park, Outwood, Redhill RH1 5PU
7. Downhill Demesne
Location: Northern Ireland
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: Two miles
Duration: Two hours
Boasting a dramatic cliffside location and surrounded by beautiful National Trust gardens, Downhill Demesne is one of the best spring walks in Northern Ireland. Discover the spectacular 18th-century Mussenden Temple and you’ll be treated to incredible views of the North Atlantic sea.
Starting point: Mussenden Road, Castlerock, Co. Londonderry BT51 4RP
8. Cleeve Hill
Location: Cotswolds
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: Six miles
Duration: 4.5 hours
Cleeve Hill is a gorgeous walking route whatever the season, but in spring, you’ll see an abundance of wildflowers and butterflies that call this limestone grassland home. As you walk across this route’s open hilltops, you’ll be rewarded with views over the Cotswolds and beyond.
Starting point: Cleeve Hill, Cheltenham GL54 4EU
9. Aberlady Bay and Gullane Point
Location: East Lothian
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 5.5 miles
Duration: 3.5 hours
On this springtime walk, you’ll enjoy the calming countryside in East Lothian and be able to take in this location’s gorgeous coastal views. The route takes you through Aberlady Bay Nature Reserve to Gullane Point, passing through rich wildlife and across a tranquil sandy beach. Bring your binoculars to spot some of the region’s local birds!
Starting point: Aberlady Bay Nature Reserve, Longniddry EH32 0QB
10. Ripon and Fountains Abbey
Location: Yorkshire
Difficulty: Medium
Distance: Eight miles
Duration: Four hours
Yorkshire is home to some of the best spring walks, including the Ripon and Fountains Abbey trail. You’ll follow footpaths and bridleways from the charming village of Ripon to spot deer in the park, and take in the views of the Abbey. Allow a little more time if you want to visit the 12th-century Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Estate.
Address: Ripon Market Place, Ripon HG4 1BW
11. Craster to Low Newton
Location: Northumberland
Difficulty: Medium
Distance: 7.7 miles
Duration: Three hours
There’s something magical about going to the coast in the spring, and Northumberland is no exception. Craster to Low Newton passes through a quaint fishing village, past the majestic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle and along Embleton Sands. Look out for the pretty dune flowers that bloom in spring.
Starting point: Craster, Northumberland, NE66 3TT
You might also like:
- 19 best autumn walks in the UK
- 29 great winter walks in the UK
- The best walks in the UK: 11 Great British routes
