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Best difficult hikes in England
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Best difficult hikes in England

Got your game face on? These difficult hikes are designed for hikers who are looking for a serious adventure.

Here are some great hikes to explore in England.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

South West Coast Path

Somerset, England · star 5.0 (428) · 1028.2 km · Est. 37 days

2

Difficult

South Downs Way

Hampshire, England · star 4.8 (125) · 161.6 km · Est. 7 days

3

Difficult

Land's End To John O'Groats

Cornwall, England · star 4.9 (74) · 1907.0 km · Est. 69 days

4

Difficult

Scafell Pike by the Corridor Route

Cumbria, England · star 4.9 (21) · 11.1 km · Est. 3 hrs 38 min

5

Difficult

Striding Edge and Helvellyn Loop

Westmorland and Furness, England · star 4.9 (29) · 12.8 km · Est. 4 hrs 5 min

6

Difficult

Scafell Pike from Seathwaite

Cumberland, England · star 4.9 (16) · 13.9 km · Est. 4 hrs 29 min

7

Difficult

Dales High Way

Saltaire, England · star 4.7 (23) · 144.2 km · Est. 6 days

8

Difficult

Via Francigena

Kent, England · star 4.8 (6) · 3194.6 km · Est. 123 days

9

Difficult

Cumbrian Classic Trident from Ambleside

Cumbria, England · star 4.0 (4) · 163.8 km · Est. 9 days

10

Difficult

Icknield Way Trail

Oxfordshire, England · star 4.9 (13) · 218.7 km · Est. 8 days

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Reviews for difficult hikes in England

Kerry Jane Gibbons avatar

South West Coast Path

KayJay · reviewed 28 days ago

star star star star star

lovelly easy hike, through the town of Hayle, and on through Carbis Bay

Thomas Swinhoe avatar

South Downs Way

Thomas Swinhoe · reviewed about 5 years ago

star star star star star

Great trail! Just finished, lots of water sources, accommodation if you need it and an ever- changing view. spoiled with views the whole way. Beautiful!

Véronique Girard-Madoux avatar

Land's End To John O'Groats

Véronique Girard-Madoux · reviewed about 5 years ago

star star star star star

super, j'étais jeune à l'époque !

Matthew Jenkins avatar

Scafell Pike by the Corridor Route

Matty J · reviewed 9 months ago

star star star star star

Decided to return the same way as the tourist track was absolutely heaving!

Andrew Thomas avatar

Striding Edge and Helvellyn Loop

Dad&Lad · reviewed over 1 year ago

star star star star star

Great route. added catsye cam too.

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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