Winter Walks: The most picturesque places and hidden gems across the UK

BEST FAMILY WALKS

South Downs National Park

It’s easy to be awestruck by the rolling green hills, bustling villages and breathtakingly beautiful views of the South Downs National Park.

Lovingly described by many as the lungs of south-east England, the South Downs encompasses the best of both worlds – a mixture of rolling countryside fused with the freshness of striking coastline.

Despite being Britain’s newest national park, there are plenty of epic walks for you and your family to explore in the South Downs.

Seven Sisters Country Park

A visit to the Seven Sisters Country Park is a must this winter. With 280 hectares of chalk cliffs, open chalk grassland and a winding river valley, it is nothing short of heaven.

Take a walk to the beach along the easy access trail and enjoy the scenery on this spectacular walk. The views from the Seven Sisters cliffs and hillsides really are a sight to behold, making a walk at the Seven Sisters Country Park an essential date on your winter calendar.

New Forest, Hampshire

Bursting with natural beauty, stunning views and welcoming family-friendly pubs and cafés, walking in the New Forest is a great way to spend quality time with your loved ones.

Suitable for all ages and abilities, there’s plenty to see and do in the New Forest. Walk amongst the tall trees at Blackwater, wander across the open heathland at Holmsley, or stroll around the water at Hatchet Pond.

There’s so much wildlife to see too, including free-roaming cattle and the iconic New Forest ponies. You could even visit the Reptile Centre or the Deer Sanctuary on your walks – will you spot a rare white buck in the woods?

Your family will love exploring everything the forestry land has to offer, including the picturesque landmarks of Matley Wood, Busketts Lawn Inclosure, Yew Tree Hill, Little Stubby Hat, and Furzy Lawn Inclosure.

Don’t forget to pop by Lyndhurst Cemetery too – where you’ll find the grave of Mrs. Reginald Hargreaves, who inspired the famous tale of 'Alice in Wonderland’.

Stonebarrow Hill and Golden Cap, Dorset

Whether you’re looking for a steady walk with little ones, or more of a challenge, there is plenty to choose from at Stonebarrow Hill and Golden Cap.

You and your family could join the South West Coast Path at Stonebarrow Hill, near Charmouth, and take in the magnificent views on offer from the two-mile circular walk in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

If you’re walking with teens or adults who are up for more of a challenge, the same starting point also marks the beginning of 25 miles of footpaths spanning the Golden Cap estate, the highest point on the south coast. Be prepared for jaw dropping views spanning across the Jurassic Coast on this stunning south coast walking experience.

Lake District, Cumbria

If fell walking is more your family’s style, why not take to the picturesque Lake District, England’s largest National Park? Brimming with scenery and an array of family-friendly walks and accommodation, it’s easy to see why the Lake District is loved by everyone – young, old and in between.

One of the many great places to explore with your family is Blea Tarn; a perfect introduction to the fells for children. You could also try the two mile walk up to Gummer’s How for spectacular views over Windermere. Be prepared to take in some of the most picture-perfect scenery you’ll ever see.

There are so many woodlands, fells, and of course, lakes, for your whole family to explore in the Lake District. With more challenging options for older children and grown-ups, or simpler routes for little ones. You’ll be spoilt for choice!

Brecon Beacons, Wales

The Brecon Beacons are a beautiful part of Wales; full of family-friendly walking trails and routes. Whether you go up, up and away into the mountain range, or explore deep into the magical woodlands, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here.

The Usk Reservoir is a great place to enjoy a family winter walk. You can wander all the way around it, or just as far as your little legs can carry you. Surrounded by forest and moorland overlooking the Black Mountain, you’ll have endless views to enjoy.