Embarking on one of the best winter walks at this time of year is a truly breathtaking experience. Coated in layers of sparkling frost, the countryside looks beautiful and has a certain magical atmosphere to it. So wrap up warm, don your walking boots and head outside for an invigorating adventure!
Here, we’re sharing nine of our favourite winter walks, as well as the best caravan parks to stay at in the area.
Wicken Fen, Cambridgeshire
One of the oldest nature reserves in the country, Wicken Fen’s marshes lie on the Cambridgeshire border and are home to a host of wildlife, including wild Konik ponies and Highland cattle, which graze the fields. The Adventurers’ trail is muddy in winter, so wellies or boots are essential.
Stay at: Two Acres Caravan & Camping
Cragside, Northumberland
From hills and woods to lakes and gardens, Cragside has more than 40 miles of footpaths. Follow the family-friendly Armstrong Trail over the iron bridge for stunning views of the grand Victorian house, then venture through the Pinetum to see the tallest Scots pine in Britain at 131ft. For a longer hike, take the Orange Walk to Blackburn Lake.
Stay at: Seddon’s Caravan Park
Pistyll Rhaeadr, North Wales
Anyone who has stayed at one of the best caravan sites in Wales will know there are so many beautiful views to see in the country, one of which is Pistyll Rhaeadr. It’s one of the Seven Wonders of Wales and has an easy path to follow. Be amazed as you watch the water plummeting over the 240ft cliff face and down into the plunge pool at your feet, before following the footpath to the summit.
Stay at: Yew Tree Inn (adults only)
Top Withens, West Yorkshire
Said to be the inspiration for Emily Brontë’s novel, Wuthering Heights, the ruined farmhouse of Top Withens is nestled on the Pennine Way to the east of Withins Height. The hills of Brontë Country are a delight to explore at any time, but in winter, the dramatic landscape sparks the imagination, bringing to life the worlds of Jane Eyre and Catherine Earnshaw. Round off your ramble with a restorative cup of tea in the nearby village of Haworth.
Stay at Holme Valley Camping and Caravan Park
Morte Bay, Devon
When a cold wind is blowing and there is frost on the ground, heading to the beach probably isn’t your first thought for a winter walk. However, the coast is as beautiful in January
as it is in June. Viewed from the hilltop path, Morte Bay offers expansive views out to sea, and the waves crashing against the rocks provide a mindful soundtrack to your stroll.
Stay at: Hidden Valley Park or take a look at our best caravan parks in Devon guide if you want to visit other parts of the region.
Kinver Edge, Staffordshire
Part of the joy of walking is finding things you never knew were right on your doorstep, such as the Kinver Edge Rock Houses. Carved into the 250m-year-old sandstone cliff in the early 17th century, these houses were inhabited until the 1950s. Peek through the window to see how a Victorian family would have lived in the tiny spaces. One of the rock houses has been turned into a tearoom, providing the ideal spot to warm up. The walk to the houses is a little challenging and can be muddy, so make sure you wear good boots.
Stay at: Hopley’s Family Camping
Blickling Estate, Norwich
With gently undulating slopes, ancient woodland and lots of spots to rest, Blickling Estate is perfect for a relaxed wander. Take in the vista of the stunning Jacobean house before venturing over to the lake, which was used by the RAF in World War II for dinghy training and today, supplies residual heat to the house and offices, saving Blickling 25,000 litres of oil consumption every year.
Stay at: Deer’s Glade Caravan & Camping Park
Buttermere, Lake District
With the fells emerging from the mist, dusted with snow, this dramatic scenery is at its finest. While more seasoned walkers might wish to scale the heights of the hills, the Lakes also offer a range of lower-level walks, which are less challenging but still offer stunning views. Flanked by the summits of Grasmoor and High Stile, Buttermere has a clearly defined path, making it a must for winter walkers.
Stay at: Braithwaite Village C&CC Site
Polesden Lacey, Surrey
Whether you are looking for an easy stroll or a more challenging hike to work off the Christmas indulgence, the 1400-acre estate of Polesden Lacey has something for everyone. Designed to come alive in the colder months, its Winter Garden is awash with snowdrops, crocuses and yellow aconites.
Alternatively, a hike up the hillside of Ranmore Common brings stunning views. Have your binoculars to hand as you venture through the woodlands, home to buzzards and hobbies.
Stay at: Henfold Lakes Leisure
Lead image: Shutterstock/Daniel_Kay
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