20 inimitable tracks of Great Britain through the eyes of a Welsh wanderer - where to go first

BritonsI'm a pedestrian paradise. Harsh coasts, undulating seas, ancient forests and impressive peaks - there is a route for both a hardened climber and a lover of leisurely weekends.

As a proud Welsh wanderer, I have trekked the trails from Eryri (Snowdonia) to the Scottish Highlands and collected for you some of the best walks in the country.

I specifically included routes of varying complexity and length, so that everyone could find something different - from panoramic views to secluded corners and real challenges. Below are the first five routes from my set of top 20 trails in the UK, which can serve as inspiration for your next self-driving foray (and yes - getting to know the place with a local guide is often even more fun and safer).

Britain's 20 best trails

1. Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) by Watkin Path, Wales
Distance: 8 miles (13 km)
Time: 5-7 hours
Start: Nant Gwynant

If you are in Wales, go up to Yr Wyddfa/Snowdon, but bypass the crowded Llanberis Path and select Watkin Path. This is the most picturesque – and the most demanding – climb: waterfalls, clear ridges and a smaller number of tourists. Each step feels like a contribution to the well-deserved view from the top. With a local guide, you’ll hear stories about the landscape and it’s safer to choose the optimal stretches of the trail.

Tip: take warm and light clothes - the sun can shine in the valley, and it already snows on the top, even in spring!

2. Helvellyn by Striding Edge, Lake District
Distance: 8.5 miles (13.7 km)
Time: 6-7 hours
Start: Glenridding

Helvellyn is one of England’s most iconic peaks, and Striding Edge is the most exciting route to it. This narrow areta gives impressive panoramas and a rush of adrenaline. The approach is not for the faint-hearted, but unforgettable for confident walkers. The local guide will add nuances on the technique of passing and tell you where it is better to stay for the view.

Tip: If you like to walk on ridges, make a loop and go down through Swirral Edge.

Attention: pass only in good weather and if you are confident in your skills on open, naked edges - with damp or ice, the edge is dangerous.

3. The Quiraing, Isle of Skye, Scotland
Distance: 4.5 miles (7 km) round-trip
Time: 2-3 hours
Start: Quiraing car park

Quiraing is a geological wonder, like a fantasy scene: monolithic rocks, hidden valleys and the constant play of light make the route incredibly photogenic. It's short-lived, but intense. This is one of the most popular spots on Skye, so come early to catch the silence and best shots. With a local guide, you will learn the ancient legends of the rocks and hear where the best angles are hidden.

4. South West Coast Path, Cornwall & Devon
Distance: 630 miles (1,014 km) in total
Time: Choose a small plot if you are not ready for everything!
Start: Minehead or any convenient section along the way

You don’t have to walk all 630 miles (though it’s epic if you decide), just pick your favorite stretch and enjoy some of England’s finest sea views. Try the stretch from St Ives to Zennor - wild cliffs and turquoise waters are guaranteed. Acquaintance with the local guide will make the hike deeper: it will tell you interesting coves, rare species of birds and safe trails at the cliff.

The north coast is particularly impressive with its "Valley of Rocks" in North Devon.

5. Pen y Fan by Horseshoe Ridge, Bannau Brycheiniog
Distance: 9 miles (14.5 km)
Time: 4-6 hours
Start: Taf Fechan Forest

This circular track covers several peaks, including the highest point in South Wales, Pen y Fan. Walking on the ridge gives wide views of the Beacons, and away from the main tourist trail, the route is quieter and more secluded. This is an excellent training distance if you are preparing for more serious mountain hikes. The guide here is useful for those who want to learn about the geology and history of local peaks.

Bonus: Ideal to prepare for higher altitude expeditions.

(Note: This Horseshoe Ridge features four peaks: Corn Du, Pen y Fan, Cribyn & Fan...)

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Credit: Louise