The Best Walks Around the UK to Celebrate National Walking Month
Coastal Pubs | Country Pubs | Pub Accommodation | Staycation | Walking | Posted 2025.04.30
The Best Walks Around the UK to Celebrate National Walking Month The month of May marks National Walking Month which is the perfect time to dust off your walking boots, embrace the outdoors and explore some of the UK’s best walking routes. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or prefer a gentle countryside stroll, the UK is home to a huge variety of trails that showcase its natural beauty, from dramatic coastlines to serene national parks. To help inspire your next outdoor adventure, we have rounded up some of the best walks across the UK to explore during National Walking Month – complete with nearby pubs with rooms to rest and refuel.
South West Coast Path – Southwest England
This is England’s longest National Trail, stretching from Minehead in Somerset to Poole in Dorset. You don’t have to walk the entire 630 miles to enjoy its char. Popular shorter sections include the stunning stretch from St Ives to Penzance in Cornwall or the dramatic Jurassic Coast near Lulworth Cove in Dorset.
Book a stay at Lulworth Cove Inn sits a stone throw’s away from Lulworth Cove on the South West Coast Path. This coastal gem is close to Durdle Door and is a picture-perfect base from which to explore the Jurassic Coast. Choose from 12 comfortable double or twin bedrooms, some of which have glorious sea views.
Hadrian’s Wall Path – Northern England
Walk in the footsteps of Roman soldiers along this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The trail follows the historic Hadrian’s Wall from Wallsend in the east to Bowness-on-Solway in the west, offering dramatic landscapes and fascinating ruins.
Book a stay at The Tynemouth Castle Inn, a beautifully renovated art deco-style building. Offering views of the North Sea, the pub has a fantastic choice of bedrooms which include some dog-friendly options.
Malham Cove Walk – Yorkshire Dales
This relatively short but impressive walk takes in the famous Malham Cove, Gordale Scar and Janet’s Foss waterfall. It’s a must do for all walkers exploring the Yorkshire Dales.
Book a stay at The Lister Arms, a dog-friendly inn. Step inside and you will find heart-warming hospitality, home-cooked food and award-winning ale. Choose from a collection of beautiful bedrooms.
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path – Wales
With its stunning views over rugged cliffs and secret coves, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path is a real gem for walkers. Try a day walk between St Davids and Whitesands Bay or around Tenby for a mix of sea air and historic charm.
Book a stay at the Ferry House Inn. A comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation nestled in the little village of Hazelbeach. The pub has six delightful family friendly rooms to make for a wonderful waterside stay.
The New Forest – Hampshire
Home to ancient woodlands, heathland and free-roaming ponies, the New Forest offers peaceful walking options for all abilities. Try the Burley Village Trail or Lyndhurst Circular Walk for classic New Forest experiences.
Book a stay at Forest Park, an elegant hotel and inn originally built in 1893 as a private house. Located close to the centre of the village of Brockenhurst, many luxurious en-suite bedrooms overlook the panoramic gardens or New Forest National Park.
The Ridgeway – South East England
Often dubbed “Britain’s oldest road,” The Ridgeway passes through the rolling countryside of the Chilterns and North Wessex Downs. Walkers can enjoy Iron Age forts, chalk ridges, and beautiful views.
Book a stay at The Greyhound Inn, situated in the centre of Letcombe Regis, an award-winning village. Choose from eight beautifully decorated en-suite bedrooms, including good options for dog and family-friendly stays.
Arthur’s Seat Edinburgh – Scotland
Right in the heart of Edinburgh, Arthur’s Seat offers a short but steep walk with panoramic views over the city and beyond. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a nature fix without leaving the city limits.
Book a stay at the Black Ivy, a stylish dog-friendly pub, restaurant and bar with boutique bedrooms. Choose from 22 luxurious en-suite bedrooms. The pub is the perfect bohemian escape from which to explore Arthur’s Seat.
Why Celebrate National Walking Month
Walking is one of the simplest ways to boost your physical and mental health, and May is the perfect month to go outside. The weather is warming up, flowers are in bloom and daylight hours are longer. The ideal time to explore as much of the UK’s beauty spots.
Written by Lucille Skinner
Social Media Assistant