Best summer walks around the UK

Updated

From walks by the coast to treks in the forest, the perfect way to enjoy the summer is to take to the great outdoors. Walking is a great way to get some exercise while taking in the best scenery the British Isles has to offer. Take a look at this list of the nation's favourite walks?


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Culver Down, Isle of Wight. This three mile hike gives you plenty of wonderful views of the Channel as you make your way back to a well earned tipple at the Culver Haven Inn. Take in breathtaking views of dramatic cliffs and rolling green hills.

Goring, Oxfordshire. A chance to take in The Thames at its best on this the four-mile Chilterns Walk, no shortage of Inns on the way either. Try the Bull, over the river at Streatley, which features in Three Men in a Boat or opt for The Catherine Wheel, in Goring itself.

Leith Hill, Surrey has a walk ideal for all the family. Start with a drink and a bite at the Plough, at Coldharbour and the take the uphill, left-hand track directly over the road. Go on pass the cricket pitch, then head straight on through woods and heath to the hilltop tower. Here you can enjoy views of 13 counties.

Dedham, Essex/Suffolk. Famous for being Constable country this three mile stroll will take you through some fine countryside including fields and along the peaceful River Stour past Flatford Mill. If you feel inclined then treat yourself with a pint of the wonderful Adnams at the Sun Inn on Dedham high street.

Durdle Door & White Nothe circular, Dorset. Starts and finishes at Lulworth Cove which is well organized for transport and refreshments when you've finished. Take in the arch of Durdle Door, Scratchy Bottom and onto Swyre Head. Finally, Batis Head and the obelisk navigation beacon and coastguard cottages at White Nothe.

Brendon, Devon. The East Lyn River flows along the wooded Exmoor valley with pretty stone bridges dotted along the way: you can get things started at The Rockford Inn where you can pick up a handy local walking guide over the counter (£3.99).

Seven Sisters and Beachy Head, East Sussex. One of the finest walks in the South of England which takes in scenic views of the glorious Sussex countryside. There are numerous walks in this area, many of which will take you to the top of the breathtakingly high Beachy Head cliffs. Best start is the Seven Sisters country park at Exceat. Stop for a drink and some nourishment at the Golden Galleon pub and head south along a footpath across downland to the stunning cliffs. Turn right for a bathe at Cuckmere Haven or left for the Gap and then up to the old lighthouse on Beachy Head.

Hartland Quay to Hartland Point, Devon. This is a wild stretch of coast, where inclement weather can actually make things very dramatic. You have a chance to visit Hartland Abbey dating back to 1157. Then it's a rambling walk up and down for three miles to the lighthouse at Hartland Point. There is also a chance to see Lundy Island out to sea. Head back in for Hartland village and the sanctuary of a quiet cafe serving cream-teas.

Hilbre Island, Wirral. This ramble will allow you to take in migrating birds and grey seals. Strict observance of waymarking and tidal times are essential. Hilbre is the biggest of three islets at the tip of the Wirral peninsular, reached from Dee Lane slipway in West Kirby when the tide is out. Times are clearly posted here with details of when you must leave Hilbre to get back safely. You can stay on the island over high water but that means waiting five hours with little shelter.

Elgol to Loch Coruisk, Isle of Skye This is a long walk in the heart of the stunning Cuillin mountains. Craggy grandeur surrounds a lonely sea loch where you attempt a round trip only if you are very fit. A more realistic option is to get a boat from Elgol and then walk back via Camasunary. Check weather conditions before setting off as the stream at Camasunary can rise to a high ford, forcing a long detour. There are some difficult places underfoot so it's not for novices who can take the boat back while you march to rejoin them overland.

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