Short walks are available on many of the UK’s National Trails, offering easier or shorter routes for those who might not want to tackle the full length of a trail. These shorter walks provide a great way to experience the beauty and variety of the National Trails without committing to long-distance walking.
Here are some examples of short walks on National Trails:
1. South Downs Way
- Devil’s Dyke to Ditchling Beacon: This is a popular short walk of around 6 miles (10 km) offering stunning views over the South Downs and the Weald. The route follows the ridge, providing expansive countryside views.
- Alfriston to Seven Sisters: A shorter section of around 4 miles (6.5 km), this walk takes you through some of the most famous chalk cliffs along the South Downs, including the Seven Sisters.
2. Thames Path
- Richmond to Hampton Court: A 7-mile (11 km) walk along the Thames in southwest London, offering riverside views and ending at the historic Hampton Court Palace.
- Oxford to Abingdon: A peaceful 8-mile (13 km) walk along the River Thames through the tranquil Oxfordshire countryside, perfect for a relaxing day out.
3. Cotswold Way
- Broadway to Broadway Tower: This 4-mile (6.5 km) circular walk is one of the most popular on the Cotswold Way, leading to the Broadway Tower, a striking hilltop folly with stunning views.
- Chipping Campden to Dover’s Hill: A 3-mile (5 km) circular walk offering a gentle stroll through historic Chipping Campden and up to Dover’s Hill for panoramic views.
4. Yorkshire Wolds Way
- Thixendale Circular Walk: A 7-mile (11 km) circular walk through the picturesque and remote Yorkshire Wolds, starting from the village of Thixendale.
- Wharram Percy: A shorter 3-mile (5 km) walk, visiting the ruins of Wharram Percy Deserted Medieval Village, an atmospheric archaeological site.
5. Cleveland Way
- Robin Hood’s Bay to Whitby: A shorter coastal walk of around 6 miles (10 km) along the cliff tops, offering views of the North Sea and the charming town of Whitby with its famous abbey.
- Helmsley to Rievaulx Abbey: A 3-mile (5 km) walk from the market town of Helmsley to the ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, a peaceful spot set in a wooded valley.
6. Hadrian’s Wall Path
- Steel Rigg to Housesteads: A 4-mile (6.5 km) walk along some of the best-preserved sections of Hadrian’s Wall, with dramatic scenery and a visit to the Housesteads Roman Fort.
- Birdoswald Roman Fort to Gilsland: A 5-mile (8 km) walk along Hadrian’s Wall, offering a mix of Roman history and scenic countryside.
7. Pembrokeshire Coast Path
- Stackpole to Barafundle Bay: A short and stunning coastal walk of around 4 miles (6.5 km), leading to Barafundle Bay, one of the most beautiful and remote beaches in Wales.
- St David’s to Whitesands Bay: A 3-mile (5 km) walk with spectacular coastal scenery, taking in St David’s Head and leading to the popular Whitesands Bay.
8. North Downs Way
- Box Hill Circular: A 5-mile (8 km) circular walk that takes in Box Hill, one of the most famous viewpoints on the North Downs, offering great views over the Surrey countryside.
- Wye Crown Walk: A 3-mile (5 km) loop from the village of Wye in Kent, offering expansive views over the Wye Downs and the famous Wye Crown chalk carving.
9. Offa’s Dyke Path
- Prestatyn to Dyserth: A short 3-mile (5 km) walk at the northern end of Offa’s Dyke, following the path of the ancient earthwork with views of the Welsh coast.
- Knighton to Kington: A 6-mile (10 km) walk through rolling hills and farmland along a scenic section of the trail near the English-Welsh border.
10. Glyndŵr’s Way
- Machynlleth Circular Walk: A 6-mile (10 km) circular walk around the historic market town of Machynlleth, offering beautiful views over the Dyfi Valley.
- Llanidloes Riverside Walk: A 4-mile (6.5 km) loop along the River Severn, offering a peaceful walk through the heart of Mid Wales.
Short Walk Benefits:
- Accessible to Most Walkers: These shorter walks are less demanding and can be completed in a few hours, making them accessible to people of different fitness levels.
- Experience the Trail Without Commitment: They provide a way to experience the beauty of the National Trails without needing to dedicate several days or weeks to complete the full trail.
- Variety of Landscapes: Even in shorter distances, you can experience the diverse landscapes of the trails, from coastlines and woodlands to mountains and historic landmarks.
- Perfect for Day Trips: Many of these shorter walks are ideal for day trips and can be easily incorporated into a weekend break.
National Trails offer guides and maps for these short walks, making it easy for hikers to plan their adventures. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing countryside stroll or a coastal ramble, these shorter sections provide a taste of the best each trail has to offer.