Search a hike or location

search
Best difficult hikes in United Kingdom
Share:

Best difficult hikes in United Kingdom

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 United Kingdom.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

South West Coast Path

Somerset, England · star 5.0 (454) · 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

Snowdon by the Llanberis Path

Gwynedd, Wales · star 4.7 (91) · 14.8 km · Est. 4 hrs 32 min

5

Difficult

Snowdon by the Pyg and Miner's Tracks from Pen-y-pass

Gwynedd, Wales · star 4.7 (97) · 12.0 km · Est. 3 hrs 36 min

6

Difficult

Snowdonia Way - Mountain Trail

Powys, Wales · star 4.6 (67) · 194.7 km · Est. 9 days

7

Difficult

Slieve Donard Walk

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 4.9 (78) · 9.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 17 min

8

Difficult

Scafell Pike by the Corridor Route

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

9

Difficult

Striding Edge and Helvellyn Loop

Westmorland and Furness, England · star 4.9 (30) · 12.8 km · Est. 4 hrs 5 min

10

Difficult

Slieve Donard from Bloody Bridge

County Down, Northern Ireland · star 4.9 (14) · 10.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 34 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for difficult hikes in United Kingdom

Kerry Jane Gibbons avatar

South West Coast Path

KayJay · reviewed about 2 months 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 over 5 years ago

star star star star star

super, j'étais jeune à l'époque !

Tom Červenka avatar

Snowdon by the Llanberis Path

Mewtwo · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Chris Crem avatar

Snowdon by the Pyg and Miner's Tracks from Pen-y-pass

Crem · reviewed about 1 year ago

star star star star star

Hiked with my brothers on 25.06.2025 nice weather to begin with, got to the summit via pyg track and mist, wind and light rain surrounded us so ended up coming down Llanberis. Quite difficult underfoot and some good knees needed lol. loved every second of it.

Frequently asked questions for hikes in United Kingdom

What is the climate like for hiking in United Kingdom?

The climate in the United Kingdom is mild with rainfall throughout the year, influencing the hiking experience. Summers (June to August) are warm but not excessively hot, while winters (December to February) are cold, but extreme temperatures are rare.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are excellent times for hiking, offering milder weather and beautiful changes in the landscape. Nevertheless, hiking is possible throughout the year, with the right preparation.
The wettest months are generally October to December, which could make hiking more challenging. Always check local weather conditions before setting out. Detailed weather information is available on the Met Office website. Link: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/

Do I need a permit to hike in United Kingdom?

Generally, hiking in the UK doesn't require permits as many routes traverse public rights of way or open access land. Some protected areas may require permits or have restrictions, such as certain National Trust sites. For specific information, check with local National Park Authorities or the National Trust. Link: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/

Is wild camping allowed in United Kingdom?

Wild camping in the UK is largely restricted. However, it's usually acceptable in higher fell areas in England, and some parts of Dartmoor. In Scotland, wild camping is generally allowed under the Outdoor Access Code. Always follow 'Leave No Trace' principles. Link: https://www.outdooraccess-scotland.scot/

Are there mountain rescue services in United Kingdom?

In emergencies, dial 999, ask for police, then Mountain Rescue in the UK. Mountain Rescue services are provided by teams of volunteers across the country. Be prepared to give your location and details of the emergency. Check the Mountain Rescue England and Wales site for more information. Link: https://www.mountain.rescue.org.uk/

Are there dangerous plants in United Kingdom?

The UK boasts diverse flora, from the heather moorlands of Scotland, to the deciduous woodlands of England. Identifying local plant species can enhance hikes and help to avoid harmful species. The Plantlife website offers extensive information on UK flora. Link: http://www.plantlife.org.uk/

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in United Kingdom?

The UK is home to a variety of wildlife that hikers might encounter, from smaller insects like ticks to larger mammals such as deer. Wildlife varies by region and season, so taking appropriate precautions is important. Detailed wildlife information can be found on the National Biodiversity Network's website. Link: https://nbn.org.uk/

More hikes in United Kingdom

by difficulty

by type

by activity