The United Kingdom offers an abundance of natural beauty, from the mountains of Scotland to the rolling hills of Cornwall. No matter which corner of the country you visit, there is something for everyone. There are so many outdoor activities to do in the UK that it can be hard to know where to begin. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for hiking, climbing, and backpacking throughout the country, but some regions offer more than others. To help you plan your next trip and discover new places to explore outdoors, we’ve put together this list of the top 10 outdoor activities in the UK.
Hiking
Hiking is a great outdoor activity for all ages and abilities. There are countless hiking trails across the UK, from short, family-friendly walks to multi-day hikes through challenging terrain. You can hike through beautiful forests, along stunning coastlines, or even climb mountains. The choice is yours. As well as being a great way to explore the country, hiking is also a fantastic way to get some exercise and fresh air. It’s also a great way to get away from it all and spend some time connecting with nature and yourself. If you have kids, hiking is a great way to get them outside and explore. You can even find hiking trails specifically designed for kids.
Backpacking
Backpacking through the UK is an amazing way to experience the country. You can choose from a range of different itineraries, from exploring a single city to trekking through the mountains. There are many places where you can rent backpacks and find guided trips, or you can backpack independently. A great way to get started is to search for trails, hostels, and other places to stay using resources such as Trailfinders and Hostelbookers. You can find plenty of trails in the UK that are suitable for backpackers of all abilities, from short city breaks to multi-week treks through remote areas.
Outdoor Running
If you’re a runner, you’ll find outdoor running is a fantastic way to explore the UK. You can run along beaches, through forests, and along coastal paths, or you can even compete in one of the many races across the country. Running is accessible for people of all fitness levels, and it’s one of the cheapest and easiest ways to get outdoors and stay active. There are thousands of places to run in the UK. And with so many races taking place all year round, you can mix up your routine and explore new places while challenging yourself with a goal.
Cycling
Cycling is one of the most popular outdoor activities in the UK. There are countless cycling trails throughout the country, and every region has something to offer, no matter what kind of cyclist you are. Cycling is a fantastic way to explore all the UK has to offer while getting a great workout, too. You can cycle through forests, along coastlines, and through picturesque towns and villages. Cycling trails vary greatly in difficulty and length, so you can choose an activity that suits your level of experience and ability. Cycle trails are also a great way to get outdoors with the whole family. You can even find trails specially designed for kids.
Kayaking and Canoeing
Kayaking and canoeing are fantastic outdoor activities to try in the UK. Whether you want to paddle along a winding river or explore a remote lake, you’ll find plenty of places to do it. Organized groups such as The British Canoe Union and other outdoor associations offer guided tours as well as independent adventures. You can also find places to rent kayaks and canoes if you’d like to explore on your own. You can paddle along the Great Waterways of Britain, which includes the river Severn and the river Thames, or you can explore one of the thousands of lakes in the UK, such as Lake Windermere or Lake District.
Rock Climbing
Climbing is one of the most accessible sports in the world and is suitable for people of all ages and abilities. No matter what level of experience you have, you’ll be able to find somewhere to climb in the UK. There are hundreds of climbing walls across the country, many of which are indoors and open all year round. You’ll also find plenty of outdoor climbing spots, which vary in difficulty and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities. For those looking to go further afield, the UK has some great climbing spots. The Cheddar Gorge in Somerset has over 800 routes for all abilities, including some overhanging walls for those who want a real challenge.
Rock climbing is one of the most challenging and rewarding outdoor activities to try in the UK. You can choose from indoor climbing walls or outdoor climbing spots. Indoor climbing walls vary in difficulty and can be a great place to start if you’ve never tried rock climbing before. Outdoor climbing spots are very different and can be extremely challenging, especially for beginners. Choose an outdoor climbing spot that is suitable for your level of experience. If you’re new to the sport, try to find an outdoor climbing spot that is protected from the elements and has safety equipment in place.
Outdoor Activities For Kids
Kids love to get outdoors, but sometimes it’s hard to know what activities to choose that will suit their age and ability. Luckily, there are plenty of outdoor activities to try in the UK that are suitable for kids of all ages. Kids can try almost anything, from cycling to kayaking. You just have to choose an activity that is suitable for their age and ability level. If you’re not sure where to begin, there are plenty of websites that list places to go with kids. You can visit lakes, rivers, and coastlines that are suitable for kids of all ages. There are even water parks and indoor play areas where kids can let off some steam when the weather isn’t suitable.
New Outdoor Activities
The UK is a fantastic place to get outdoors and try new activities. It’s also a great place to try something new if you’ve always wanted to try rock climbing, backpacking, or even kayaking. There are plenty of outdoor activities to try in the UK, so you’ll have no trouble finding an adventure that suits you. Whether you prefer hiking through the mountains or kayaking along a winding river, the UK has something for everyone.