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Best backpacking hikes in England
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Best backpacking hikes in England

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in England.

Most popular hikes

1

Easy

Congresbury to Winscombe Loop via Rowberrow Warren Wood

North Somerset, England · star 5.0 (1) · 25.3 km · Est. 5 hrs 51 min

2

Medium

Hen Cloud, The Roaches, Luds Church, Gradbach Hill and Ramshaw Rocks Loop

Staffordshire, England · star 4.7 (3) · 17.7 km · Est. 4 hrs 28 min

3

Easy

Bishop's Stortford to Sawbridgeworth Walk

Hertfordshire, England · star 4.3 (4) · 7.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 36 min

4

Easy

Selly Oak and Bournville Circular Walk

Birmingham, England · star 4.3 (4) · 11.1 km · Est. 2 hrs 22 min

5

Easy

Cross Cotswold Pathway - Macmillan way section

Oxfordshire, England · star 5.0 (5) · 146.5 km · Est. 6 days

6

Medium

Calton Gill Wood and High Wood Loop

North Yorkshire, England · star 4.8 (4) · 11.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 57 min

7

Easy

Painswick to Stonehouse Walk

Gloucestershire, England · star 4.5 (6) · 13.4 km · Est. 3 hrs 16 min

8

Easy

Dean Wood Loop

Wigan, England · star 4.0 (1) · 5.9 km · Est. 1 hrs 17 min

9

Easy

Guilden Sutton Park and Chester Millennium Greenway

Cheshire West and Chester, England · star 4.0 (1) · 15.5 km · Est. 3 hrs 15 min

10

Easy

Flyford Flavell Loop

Worcestershire, England · star 4.5 (4) · 7.7 km · Est. 1 hrs 40 min

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Reviews for backpacking hikes in England

Msgr. Shirley Hansen avatar

Congresbury to Winscombe Loop via Rowberrow Warren Wood

PinesRavinewalker37 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Christopher Roberts avatar

Hen Cloud, The Roaches, Luds Church, Gradbach Hill and Ramshaw Rocks Loop

CJROBERTS · reviewed about 1 month ago

star star star star star

Annemarie Gislason avatar

Bishop's Stortford to Sawbridgeworth Walk

ThicketClimber26 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Blake Blanda avatar

Selly Oak and Bournville Circular Walk

DriftwoodSkytracker42 · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Julie Cole avatar

Cross Cotswold Pathway - Macmillan way section

Julie Cole · reviewed over 5 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in England

What is the climate like for hiking in England?

In England, hiking in the spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and flourishing wildlife, however trails may be muddy due to showers. Summer (June to August) offers the most stable weather with longer daylight hours but trails can be crowded, especially in national parks. Autumn (September to November) can be wetter but displays vibrant fall colours.

Winter hiking (December to February) is more challenging due to short days and colder, often unpredictable weather. Snowfall can make some trails inaccessible. Always check the weather forecast and equip accordingly. Experienced hikers may enjoy the tranquility and stark beauty of the winter landscape. 

Ultimately, the best time to hike in England depends on personal preferences and preparedness. England's official tourist site (https://www.visitengland.com/) provides in-depth information about various hiking trails and their seasonal characteristics. Be sure to research specific areas as climate can vary across the country.

Do I need a permit to hike in England?

In England, the "Right to Roam" allows hikers access to certain public lands without a permit. Some areas like national parks or Sites of Special Scientific Interest may have specific rules. Before hiking, check with the landowner, National Trust, or local council. Information on access rights can be found on the Natural England website (https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities).

Is wild camping allowed in England?

Wild camping in England is generally not allowed without landowner permission, except in some parts of Dartmoor National Park. Breaching this can result in fines. It's advised to use official campsites or seek landowner consent for a more immersive experience. For more, visit the Dartmoor National Park's website (https://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/visiting/planning-your-visit/camping).

Are there mountain rescue services in England?

In emergencies while hiking in England, dial 999 and ask for the police, then request Mountain Rescue. The Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) is a volunteer-run organization that provides assistance in upland and lowland areas. More information can be found on their website (https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/).

Are there dangerous plants in England?

England's diverse hiking trails present a range of flora. Expect bluebells in ancient woodlands, gorse on coastal paths, and heather on moorlands. In protected areas, refrain from picking or damaging plants. The Woodland Trust provides more details on the UK's native species (https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/plants/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in England?

While hiking in England, you may encounter a variety of wildlife including deer, foxes, badgers, and numerous bird species. Beware of ticks in tall grass and midges in damp, shaded areas. The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (https://www.rspb.org.uk/) offers useful information on encountering wildlife responsibly.

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