Winter walking in the UK offers a completely different perspective on the landscape. Trails are quieter, views are clearer and many destinations feel more atmospheric than at any other time of year. From snow-covered mountains to accessible low-level routes, these are the best places to enjoy winter walks across the UK.

Comparing the Best Winter Walks in the UK

Scottish Highlands – Best for dramatic winter scenery

The Scottish Highlands deliver the UK’s most striking winter walking landscapes. Snow often settles across glens and peaks, creating expansive views even on lower-level routes.

Best for:

• Snowy scenery
• Long-distance winter walks
• Remote landscapes

Winter walking tips:

Stick to glen and forest paths unless you have winter mountaineering experience. Weather can change rapidly in January.

Where to walk:

Glen Nevis, Rothiemurchus Forest, lower Cairngorm trails
Official site: https://www.visitscotland.com

Typical route distance:

6–10 miles (shorter low-level options available)

Ease of track:

Moderate to challenging

Track notes:

• Well-defined paths in glens and forests
• Higher routes become alpine in winter
• Navigation skills essential in poor visibility

Best suited to:

Experienced walkers or confident winter hikers sticking to lower routes

Cairngorms National Park – Best for cold-weather walking

Cairngorms National Park is one of the coldest areas in the UK and offers extensive winter walking options.

Best for:

• Snow-covered forest paths
• Wildlife spotting in winter
• Wide, well-marked trails

Winter walking tips:

Lower forest routes remain accessible even when higher plateaus are snowbound.

Where to walk:

Loch Morlich forest trails, Glenmore paths
Official site: https://www.cairngorms.co.uk

Typical route distance:

3–8 miles

Ease of track:

Easy to moderate (on lower routes)

Track notes:

• Wide forest tracks and well-maintained paths
• Generally flatter than other Highland areas
• Plateau routes are not suitable in winter without experience

Best suited to:

Confident beginners and intermediate walkers in winter conditions

Lake District – Best for winter walks without extreme conditions

Lake District National Park is ideal for winter walkers who want dramatic scenery without committing to full alpine conditions.

Best for:

• Snow-dusted fells
• Lakeside walks
• Cosy village bases

Winter walking tips:

Choose lower-level routes when snow is present on high fells.

Where to walk:

Grasmere lakeside, Derwentwater circuit, Tarn Hows
Official site: https://www.lakedistrict.gov.uk

Typical route distance:

4–7 miles

Ease of track:

Easy to moderate

Track notes:

• Clear paths around lakes and valleys
• Fell routes become slippery or icy in January
• Good signage on popular lower-level routes

Best suited to:

All abilities choosing low-level or lakeside walks

Snowdonia (Eryri) – Best winter mountain views in Wales

Eryri National Park offers some of the most dramatic winter scenery in Wales, particularly after snowfall.

Best for:

• Mountain backdrops
• Crisp winter days
• Quiet January trails

Winter walking tips:

Avoid summit routes in winter unless experienced. Lower paths still provide excellent views.

Where to walk:

Llyn Padarn, Nant Peris valley routes
Official site: https://www.eryri.llyw.cymru

Typical route distance:

3–6 miles (low-level routes)

Ease of track:

Moderate

Track notes:

• Valley and lakeside paths are accessible year-round
• Mountain routes require winter skills
• Weather can change quickly even on short walks

Best suited to:

Intermediate walkers avoiding summit routes in winter

Peak District – Best winter walks near major cities

Peak District National Park is one of the most accessible places for winter walking, particularly for those based in Manchester, Sheffield or London.

Best for:

• Moorland walks
• Frosty winter views
• Easy train access

Winter walking tips:

Expect mud, ice and strong winds — waterproof footwear is essential.

Where to walk:

Hope Valley, Castleton circular routes
Official site: https://www.peakdistrict.gov.uk

Typical route distance:

3–7 miles

Ease of track:

Easy to moderate

Track notes:

• Flagged paths on popular routes
• Muddy and icy sections common in January
• Moorland routes exposed to wind

Best suited to:

Beginners to intermediate walkers with good footwear

South Downs – Best low-level winter walks

South Downs National Park is ideal if you want winter walking without snow or extreme weather.

Best for:

• Gentle winter walking
• Coastal and countryside views
• Short winter daylight hours

Winter walking tips:

January offers firm ground and clear views across rolling hills.

Where to walk:

Seven Sisters coastal paths, Devil’s Dyke
Official site: https://www.southdowns.gov.uk

Typical route distance:

4–8 miles

Ease of track:

Easy

Track notes:

• Chalk paths drain well in winter
• Gentle gradients throughout
• Minimal navigation challenges

Best suited to:

Beginners, casual walkers, and shorter winter daylight walks

Conclusion

Winter walks in the UK combine dramatic scenery with a sense of calm that’s hard to find during busier seasons. Whether you’re exploring snow-dusted national parks or gentle lowland trails, January is one of the most rewarding times to walk. Most of the UK’s best winter walks range between 3 and 8 miles, with clearly marked tracks at lower elevations — ideal for January walking when daylight hours are shorter.

For more seasonal inspiration, explore our guides to where to find snow in the UK in January and the best January weekend trips from London. If you prefer staying closer to home, our recommendations for Best Indoor Things to Do in London When It’s Cold and The Best Museums in London for Cold Weather Days highlight how much the city still has to offer.

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FAQs – Winter walking in the UK

Where are the best winter walks in the UK?

The Scottish Highlands, Lake District and Snowdonia offer the most scenic winter walking experiences.

Are winter walks safe in January?

Yes, if you choose appropriate routes, check weather forecasts and avoid high summits in poor conditions.

Do you need special equipment for winter walks?

For low-level routes, sturdy waterproof boots and warm layers are usually sufficient. Higher ground may require winter gear.

Is winter a good time to visit UK national parks?

Yes. Winter brings fewer crowds, clearer views and quieter trails across most parks.