If you’re just recently getting into hiking and enjoying the outdoors but want to build your confidence up on some of the easier routes, I have done a round-up of 5 fantastic beginner hikes all over the UK. Make sure you find a route to follow on one of the many navigation apps out there (I’d recommend Komoot or OutdoorActive if you’re just starting out as they’re pretty user friendly and have free options) and make sure you download the map to use offline incase you’re out of signal!
1. Mam Tor
This is a classic Peak District hike, you can start in Castleton and head up through Cave Dale to then climb up to Mam Tor and enjoy the rolling hills over to Back Tor and Lose Hill, enjoying the panoramic Peak District views along the way. You can do a full loop back down into Castleton which is 8/9 miles in total and a beautiful, moderate walk. (dog friendly too but watch out for sheep).
Photo by @alex_leeder_photography
2. Pen Y Fan and Corn Du
If you're wanting to explore the Brecon Beacons, OR if you’re wanting to tick off your first mountain, Pen Y Fan is the perfect hike. It’s twinned with another peak called Corn Du meaning you get to tick off two summits in one hike. It’s a nice steady incline with a simple enough path and nothing technical. You also cannot beat the unique, breathtaking views of the Brecon Beacons. (once you’ve conquered this one, check out the Brecon Horseshoe – a longer and even more gorgeous route!).
Photo by @graces__adventures
3. Catbells
The gem of the Lake District, this is a perfect starter hike. The fell stands at a modest 451 metres but has phenomenal views of lakes to one side and mounains to the other. It’s a simple path all the way up with an optional mini scramble up to the summit (but an easier path to the side if that’s too much). A great one for all the family.
Photo by @dr.m_rice
4. Snowdon (via Pyg Track)
Some people are surprised when I recommend the biggest mountain in Wales as a beginner hike, but if you go up via the Pyg Track and down Miners Track, the path is really enjoyable with long stretches of flat walking in between the elevation for the first mile or so which eases you in. Please ensure you go in good weather and if you’re not a confident hiker yet, go with a friend or a group but Snowdon is definitely an incredible mountain to conquer. (you have to pre-pay for parking 24hrs in advance at the Pen Y Pass carpark)
Photo by @graces__adventures
5. Malham Cove, Gordale Scar & Janet's Foss
The Yorkshire Dales offers plenty of nice, easy walks but there’s a lovely loop from Malham which takes in Malham Cove (a unique cliff-top rock structure which was a scene in Harry Potter) Gordale Scar (a waterfall tucked away in a hollowed out cave) and Janet's Foss, a gorgeous waterfall which, on a hot day, makes for a perfect post-hike swim spot. You can then wind up at the Malham pub for a cheeky cider.
Photo by @lage.marcio
Remember to always pack sufficient kit for the time of year: warm clothes, waterproofs, hats/gloves, plenty of water, food and snacks. Blister plasters never go amiss either. Have some form of navigation and make sure someone knows where you are if you're going solo!
If you manage to get out and tick off any of these hikes, I really hope you enjoy them and let me know how you get on
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