Winter’s stark landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for some of the UK’s most memorable hikes. From Devon to Scotland, the crisp air, quiet paths, and distant views make for some of the best walking experiences. Here are some personal stories behind favourite winter trails, each evoking a sense of place and connection with the land.
Derwent Edge, Peak District
Derwent Edge offers a panoramic view of the upper Derwent valley, surrounded by rolling moors and hidden valleys. The route’s highlight is its namesake, Derwent Edge, a dramatic ridge with a series of rocky outcrops such as the Wheel Stones, the Salt Cellar, and the Cakes of Bread. The landscape, once stripped and burned, is slowly recovering with the emergence of deciduous trees, adding to the natural beauty of the area. The walk is especially enchanting in winter, with snow covering the moors and the cold air sharpening the senses.
River Avon Walk, Central Lowlands
The River Avon walk follows part of the 10-mile heritage trail from Avonbridge to Linlithgow, offering a peaceful journey through shaded woodlands and along the river’s edge. The path passes historical landmarks like lime kilns, a ruined Big House, and a cave where the legendary William Wallace is said to have hidden from the English. In winter, the landscape feels particularly intimate, with the quiet rustle of leaves and the soft murmur of the river. The walk’s connection to the past, coupled with the soothing winter environment, makes it a reflective journey, one that evokes memories of childhood and the passage of time.
Culbone Walk, Exmoor
Culbone church, hidden in a secluded glade on Exmoor’s South West Coast Path, is the smallest working church in England. The walk to this church, which involves a varied trail through oak and beech woods, is an experience in itself. The church’s isolation and simplicity have a profound effect on visitors, often evoking a sense of awe. The surrounding landscape, with its sweeping views of the sea and the occasional bench to rest and reflect, adds to the emotional depth of the walk. For one walker, this path holds particular significance as a place of shared memories with a dear friend, making it not just a hike, but a tribute to a lasting bond.
The Black Hill, Herefordshire
The Black Hill, located on the border of England and Wales, offers a stunning winter walk with panoramic views across the surrounding valleys and hills. The hike up the hill can be bleak, especially in winter when the trees are bare and the winds are sharp, but it is also beautifully mysterious. The walk, which follows the ancient Offa’s Dyke path, passes through rugged terrain and offers a glimpse into the region’s history, from medieval churches to neolithic monuments. The area’s quiet solitude makes it a perfect winter walk, with the wind and rain adding to the raw beauty of the landscape.
A Loop in the Norfolk Broads
The Norfolk Broads, often dismissed for their flatness, take on a magical quality in winter. The stark fields, empty waterways, and expansive skies create a sense of openness and freedom. The walk starts from Acle, passing through fields and villages, and follows the River Bure to St Benet’s Abbey, an ancient ruin dating back to 1019. The abbey’s isolation and history provide a poignant backdrop, while the surrounding landscape, with its windmills and wildlife, evokes a sense of timelessness. The walk is a personal journey for one writer, who finds comfort and clarity in the familiar paths of their childhood, making this winter loop a cherished ritual.
Stockbury, Kent
In Kent, the village of Stockbury offers a peaceful and intimate winter walk. Starting from the village pub, the route leads through wooded lanes and fields, past the ancient St Mary Magdalene church and the remains of a motte-and-bailey castle. The landscape is rich with history, from the migration routes of birds to the ancient trees that dot the countryside. For one walker, this trail holds deep personal significance, as it was here, during a difficult time, that they found solace and strength. The walk through the Stockbury valley remains a favourite, offering a quiet space for reflection and connection with the land.
Each of these winter trails offers something unique, whether it’s a connection to the past, a place of personal significance, or simply the joy of being immersed in nature’s quiet beauty. The winter months strip away distractions, allowing the landscape to speak for itself, creating unforgettable memories along the way.
