If you want to get out and about before winter draws to an end, why not grab your walking boots and head on one of these excellent rambles around the UK? Magna Carta Walk, Berkshire/Surrey: Explore some of Britain’s most historic locations with a walk that not only takes in the Runnymede memorial but also stunning Windsor Castle. Start off at the gates of the Castle in central Windsor before heading down the Long Walk, an elegant stroll through the sweeping Windsor Great Park taking in the famous Copper Horse statue of George III. After passing through Runnymede — where the Magna Carta was agreed back in 1215 — follow the Thames as it winds back towards Windsor. Bronte Country, West Yorkshire: Celebrate the most famous literary sisters of all time with a wander round the picturesque village of Haworth on the brooding moors. The windswept countryside outside Haworth inspired the classic Wuthering Heights, so expect plenty of bracing walks and breath-taking scenery as you explore the very hills and heaths that so intrigued Charlotte, Emily, and Anne. Dartmoor Explorer,
Devon: As one of the few truly wild corners of southern England, Dartmoor is also home to some excellent walking adventures, whatever the weather. The villages around Okehampton offer a great starting point for your walk, while on the western fringes of the Dartmoor National Park sits St Michael’s Church in Brentor, one of the most spectacular churches in England. Dartmoor can be tricky in bad weather, so if you’re heading out in snow or ice make sure you take all necessary precautions and always check weather forecasts before you go. Elidir Trail, West Glamorgan: They call this particular corner of Wales “Waterfall Country”, and you’ll soon see why if you head out on the Elidir Trail this winter. The wonderful Brecon Beacons National Park has plenty of options for walkers this winter, but for a touch of magic the Elidir Trail can’t be matched. To start your adventure, head out from the Waterfalls Visitor Centre in the village of Pontneddfechan, taking the well-marked path along the river bank as it winds through ancient woodland to Sgwd Gwladus waterfall. Divis Summit Trail, County Antrim: On a clear winter’s day, you’ll not only be able to see all the counties of Ulster from the Divis Summit Trail, but you might even spot the craggy outlines of both Scotland and England. The terrain is heathland and bogs, but the trail itself is well-maintained meaning it’s perfect if you’re looking for an afternoon away from the bustle of Belfast or you simply want to clear your head with some of that bracing Irish wind.
