The Most Romantic Winter Walks in the UK
The weather may be frightful, but winter walks in the UK are a delightful way to keep warm during the long, cold winter months. There’s something especially charming and romantic about the Great British scenery this time of year and a walk in the countryside is a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city during the festive season.
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You never know what weather conditions may unfold on your ventures so be prepared and make sure you have a good pair of walking boots, plenty of water and a warm coat before you set off on your walk.
Looking for inspiration? These destinations are ideal for romantic winter walks.
The Peak District
In many ways, The Peak District is the epitome of rural Britain, with its rolling hills, picturesque landscapes and cosy villages. Well-known as a haven for walkers of all experience levels, there are plenty of routes to choose from.
The Bakewell to Chatsworth House route is perfect for a romantic winter walk with your partner. This trail can be done as a six or eight-mile route, and takes you through peaceful woodlands and quaint villages before finishing at the historic Chatsworth House itself, where you can refuel in the Carriage House Café.
The Lake District
Famed for its dramatic beauty, with rugged mountains overlooking epic lakes, this part of the UK is home to Scafell Pike – England’s highest peak, and as such, is a popular hotspot for experienced hikers.
But if you’re looking for something a little more serene this winter, the Rydal Water circuit is a more manageable 3.3 miletrail following an easy path around this beautiful lake.
The Cotswolds
A stroll through the Cotswolds is like stepping into a fairytale, making it the perfect spot for a winter walk with the one you love. The area is absolutely oozing with idyllic charm, thanks to its quaint villages, cobbled streets, thatched-roofed cottages and rolling green hills.
Take a romantic walk through the Wayland’s Smithy landscape in Ashbury, Oxfordshire. Along the Ridgeway, you’ll find several prehistoric sites, including Wayland’s Smithy, the White Horse Hill, Uffington Castle and Dragon Hill. If the weather is dry, you could even plan for a winter picnic on the banks of the River Windrush.
The Scottish Highlands
If it’s wild and rugged beauty you’re after, then head to the Scottish Highlands. Walks in this part of the UK offer truly breathtaking scenery, and the chance to get up close to wildlife such as red deer.
While the Highlands are a popular choice for seasoned hikers, walkers looking for a gentle wander needn’t worry, since there are plenty of lower-level, easy routes suitable for all abilities.
In the village of Glencoe, for example, you’ll find the Lochan Trail – a mostly flat route with plenty of rest points. Alternatively, the Woodland Trail is a more meandering (and sometimes muddy!) route through the North American conifers, that were planted here by Lord Strathcona for his homesick Canadian wife – you can’t get much more romantic than that!
