We know what you’re thinking - finally, we’ve made it. The sun is out, our gardens are in full bloom, and although we’ll never quite get rid of the rain, the weather is getting a good touch warmer. It’s official, we’re firmly in British springtime.
It’s not quite trip-to-the-beach weather, but it’s definitely time to find that perfect picnic spot after a scenic stroll in the British countryside. Whether you prefer a strenuous hike or a half an hour ‘walk and talk’ just taking in the scenery, we’ve pulled together our favourite walking locations across the country for you to enjoy this spring.
Roseberry Topping, North Yorkshire
Ambling through a sea of bluebells is surely the best way to spend a springtime Saturday afternoon. Well, at Roseberry Topping trail in North Yorkshire, you can do just that.
Vast swathes of bluebells carpet the landscape of Roseberry Topping beginning in late April to early May, bringing a vibrance and enchantment to the already stunning scenery.
Sitting on the far west of the North York Moors National Park, Roseberry Topping walking route takes approximately 5 hours and is 7.8 miles in total. You’ll start from the village green in Great Ayton, heading east along High Street before turning left to Newton Road. Take a gate on the right and follow the footpath past Cleveland Lodge. Take care crossing the railway line and follow the footpath up the side of the field to reach Cliff Ridge Wood.
This is a moderate to challenging route, perfect for spending a spring day with your hike-loving friends before heading for a well earned pint or cup of tea at The Kings Head Inn located at The Green Newton under Roseberry in Great Ayton.
Make sure to bring your thermal hat or neck warmer in case of rain or colder weather, after all, this is still Yorkshire!
Rame Head, Cornwall
A little further away, the Mount Edgecumbe and Rame Head route in Cornwall combines wildflowers and sandy bays to make a springtime walk just about as spectacular as it gets.
To begin your walk, you’ll need to hop on the ferry at the Strand Street Car Park and take the Cremyll Ferry to Rame Peninsula. The boat service, which dates back to roughly the 11th century, costs £2 per passenger.
Once you’ve arrived at Wilderness Point, follow signs for the South West Coast Path through the historic grounds of Mount Edgcumbe and the following signs and footpaths will lead you in the right direction.
This walk isn’t circular, so turn back when you’re half-way done. To complete the walk, it’s 6.8 miles one way, taking approximately 4 hours. The terrain is moderate so if you’re up for a full day of hiking, this is the route you want to take. A sturdy pair of ladies walking boot socks or men's walking boot socks are essential! Plus we have a fantastic range of wool socks, with some featuring Merino wool for additional durability and warmth.
Brigsteer Woods, Cumbria
For a shorter, but still as stunning, springtime walk, this 2 hour circular walk is flooded with daffodils, ramsons and bluebells guiding the way.
On your stroll, you’ll pass Sizergh Castle before following woodland paths to Helsington Church, and one of the finest viewpoints in this corner of old Westmorland, an area earmarked for inclusion in an extended Lake District National Park.
On a warm, sunny afternoon - this is the perfect route for a pit stop picnic.
Find the full walking route on All Trails.
St Catherine’s Hill, Hampshire
Another shorter route, St Catherine’s Hill in Hampshire is a 4 mile grassland walk amongst budding flowers, Shetland sheep and butterflies.
This delightful spring walk starts outside Winchester’s 11th-century cathedral, last resting place of Jane Austen. Make your way through the cloister then right through The Close, passing the Pilgrim’s School to exit through Priory Gate. Soon after, turn left under the 14th-century King’s Gate on to College Street. Turn left, then right on to College Walk to leave the road on a track to the right. At the gate, go left to follow the path along the crystal-clear River Itchen. Pass the college playing fields, cross the road, and pick up the gravel path opposite (signposted Clarendon Way).
For the full route, click here.
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Springtime is undoubtedly meant for strolls in the beautiful British countryside. Be sure to pack wisely with plenty of water and dress appropriately with thick thermal boot socks to avoid blisters!
We’d love to see snaps of your springtime rambles. Tag us on Instagram and TikTok at @HeatHoldersUK and Facebook at @HeatHolders 🥾🌼
