Travel news
May’s National Walking Month is an excuse to step up pedestrian activity by embarking on multi-day hikes or shorter strolls, slowly absorbing beautiful scenery along the way.
Ranging from tough trails to easy ambles, the UK and Ireland has a variety of options. Here are some routes – whatever your pace.
Paddy’s trail
Follow in the footsteps of St Patrick, the 5th Century missionary on a new tour along the Pilgrim’s Way. The 18-mile path can be completed in a day.
How: The Saint Patrick’s Way Downpatrick Camino guided walk costs £65 per person, including lunch. Visit saintpatrickcentre.com.
Highland treasures
Explore remote glens and lochs in the Cairngorms, admire art-worthy landscapes in Glen Coe, and rise to the challenge of summitting Ben Nevis.
How: Gane & Marshall (ganeandmarshall.com; 01822 600 600) offers a Walking The Scottish Highlands itinerary from £2,654pp, incl B&B and all transfers in a private vehicle.
Foody delights
This new four-night break through the Yorkshire Dales National Park makes the most of stays in two foodie haunts: the Black Swan in Ravenstonedale and The Black Bull in Sedbergh.
How: Muddy Boots Walking Holidays (muddybootswalkingholidays.com; 01969 663 838) offers the Hills Of The Cumbrian Dales trip from £455 per person, including B&B and luggage transfers.
Saintly strolls
The six new Northern Saints Trails bring to life tales of Britain’s holiest heroes – all rooted in the Durham region’s Christian heritage.
How: For detailed route maps and suggestions of where to stay and what to do, visit northernsaints.com.
A vintage beauty
Declared the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1956, The Gower Peninsula is famous for its sparkling beaches, dramatic moors and wild coastline.
How: Exodus Travels (exodus.co.uk; 020 8772 3802) offers the Walking the Gower Peninsula package from £799 per person, inc B&B accommodation and transport.