Best autumn hiking trails in the UK

As greens fade to browns and the local wildlife prepares itself for the long nights ahead, hiking in autumn is a truly unique experience – and one that most people don’t take full advantage of. Wherever you go, you’re presented with an evolving canvas of fiery shades as the stifling humidity of the summer makes way for cooler, more comfortable exercise (or even chillier experiences the further north you go!). So, let’s seize the moment and march face on towards the approaching winter, experiencing every last drop of the outdoors this year. Let’s go hiking in autumn! To help you make the most of the outdoors this autumn, we’ve collected a series of seasonal hikes that’ll show you the many faces of fall. Our collection includes hikes that’ll take you across lush valleys, along winding rivers, over wide meadows and through quiet forests – as well as a couple of more demanding routes that’ll see you scale a rocky summit or two. Just scroll down to view the location of each of our routes on the map, and read on for all the information you’ll need. Well, what are you waiting for? Pull on your hiking boots, zip up your cosiest down jacket, and get outside into the crisp, clear air of autumn. You'll find everything you need for your hike at:

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Giants Causeway

This hike is one that'll take you past a real gem of Northern Ireland's natural attractions: the Giant's Causeway. Perhaps the most famous sight in all of Ireland itself, the Causeway is an unusual collection of 40,000 basalt columns formed around 60 million years ago. Local legend has it that an Irish giant built the causeway across the North Sea to battle against a Scottish giant. Just don't mention the fact that he supposedly lost the fight while you're wandering around the rocks themselves. After enjoying the peculiarities of the Giant's Causeway, this hike will take you westward along the coastline and offers innumerable opportunities to enjoy the spectacular views. Bear in mind that it can get a little windy up here on the coast though, so packing suitable clothing is a must. On the final leg of this trek, you'll wander down to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, something many people might recognise from the famous TV show Game of Thrones. Getting across will cost you around 6 pounds, but this is a worthy investment for the rush you’ll get when you look down!

Find the route as download here: komoot - Giants Causeway

Tintagel

This hike weaves you through one of Cornwall's most lovely Outstanding Areas of Natural Beauty, in a region that is dominated by the Arthurian legend. Starting out in the small town of Tintagel, you'll make your way around to what is considered by many to be the birth place of King Arthur. From there, you'll follow the cliffs north-east, stopping by the beloved Merlin's Cove and Barras Nose. As you continue to wind your way around the sea front, the next highlight is Bossiney Cove. With its turquoise waters and rugged rock formations looking like something out of the movie Pirates of the Caribbean, this is the perfect spot for a rest stop. And don't fret if you're walking with a dog: Bossiney Cove allows furry friends at any time of the year. From there, it's an unbroken stroll back to the village of Boscastle, and time for a well earned pint.

Find the route as download here: komoot - Tintagel

Ile of Skye - Quiraing

This hike, although not that far, is one that will test experienced hikers due to its mix of rugged terrain and unpredictable conditions. Starting out on the isolated Quiraing Road, you'll wander through a relatively untouched part of the UK and wind your way back to your starting point over around 3 hours. The landscape seems taken straight out of a Tolkien or G.R.R. Martin book, and any Game of Thrones or Lord of the Rings fans will feel right at home in undulating greenery, interrupted only by craggy rock formations of a kind you've never seen before.

Find the route as download here: komoot - Ile of Skye - Quiraing

Lake District - Scafell Pike

Scafell Pike is England's highest peak, from where you'll be rewarded with astounding views of the surrounding Lake District. Starting at Wasdale Car Park, the route takes you up the shortest and most direct way to the top of Scafell Pike, initially skirting you along the shores of England's deepest lake: Wastwater. Around 3 miles into this 9-mile trek, you'll have summited the Scafell – right in time to enjoy some sandwiches. After a short break, you'll then head north-east for around 30-45 minutes, before looping back around and walking past the Styhead Tarn, another of the Lake District’s sixteen lakes. From there, it's a gentle walk back to the car.

Find the route as download here: komoot - Lake District - Scafell Pike

Brecon

This all-day hike is a great way to spend a day in the Brecon Beacons National Park whilst taking in some stunning scenery. Starting in the village of Libanus (where you'll find plenty of places to park the car) you'll conquer the two highest peaks in South Wales: Corn Ddu and Pen y Fan. You'll begin making your way up the former almost from the moment you set off. The first section will be pretty steep, especially after you pass Llyn Cwm Llwch. Here, we'd recommend enjoying a small rest stop on the shores of the lake before you continue on your way up to Corn Ddu's summit. You'll then make the short hike east over to Pen y Fan, from where you can see for miles on a clear day. It’s the perfect place for a rest. After you've refuelled, the final stage takes you down the north side of the mountain and back round towards Libanus. As this part of the route takes you outside of the main hiking trails, you can expect to enjoy some serenity at several points on your way back.

Find the route as download here: komoot - Brecon

Snowdon Ranger

The Snowdon Ranger Path is one of the most popular trails leading up Snowdon. Starting out at the Snowdon Ranger inn, you'll find the path slightly to the north of the hostel, directly opposite the parking spot. If you’re coming by car, just be sure to carry a few quid for the parking ticket machine – the hostel doesn’t give change and the nearest shop is a 20-minute drive away! Once you set off, you'll wander up a gradual incline as you enjoy great views of the surrounding landscape. The final third of the path can get a little steep, however, and you should be mindful of the passing train. You might not expect to see one this far up Wales' highest peak, but once you see the train tracks you’ll know you are near the top. Once there, take in the sights from the summit station and warm up with a cup of tea. You’re now half way home! The way back down will take you along the Pyg Track, another favourite of hikers going up or down the mountain. This trail will afford you glorious views of Snowdon's eastern edges, and reveal to you a side of the Snowdonia National Park you might never see if you commit to taking the train back down. The trail will drop you out at Pen y Pass, from where you can take the Snowdon Shuttle back round to the Snowdon Ranger Hostel. Remember to plan ahead as the buses don't come that regularly and the wait for the next one can be long. It takes about one hour to get back to your starting point on the bus. For those who don't want to wait, a taxi will cost around 35-40GBP and will get you back to the car park in around 30 minutes.

Find the route as download here: komoot - Snowdon Ranger

Lizard Point

The 1,000 km long South West Coast trail running along the hilly cliffs and coastline of Cornwall and Devon is perhaps one of the most spectacular coastal walks in the world. It’s truly a blessing that one of the most beautiful sections can also be hiked in a single day. The route from Mullion Cove to Lizard Point will give you the most pleasure. It winds along the cliffs to the southernmost point of England. There are plenty of great views along the way, as well as plenty of pubs where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a spot of lunch.

Find the route as download here: komoot - Lizard Point

All the right gear for your autumn hiking trip

CAMPZ hiking gear The golden landscapes and rustling leaves of autumn make it a beautiful time of the year. Of course, as it’s no longer summer, temperatures can get a bit chilly and the weather may surprise you with an unexpected rain shower or two. This isn’t a problem if you have the right clothing and equipment. At Addnature.co.uk you’ll find everything you need to make the most of your autumn walk: comfortable backpacks, rain jackets and much more.

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