Short walks on the National Trails

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.

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