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Whether close to home or further afield, a short walking holiday is a great way to explore a new area. It’s an opportunity to discover monuments to history, stunning views, and nature’s bounty all at your own pace. 

  

To help you decide where you might like to explore we’ve picked 8 locations to try, each with a perfect hotel for your stay. 

 

1. Godalming 

The beautifully preserved heritage riverside town of Godalming, in the Surrey Hills AONB, offers varied walking routes. Stroll along the Wey Navigation towpath, wander the bluebell-clad woodlands at Witley Common, or test your fitness on the climb to Gibbet Hill for panoramic views across rolling Surrey countryside. The boardwalk at nearby Thursley Common (pictured above) was voted Britain’s Favourite Path 2024 in a national competition organised by the Ramblers. 

Stay at: The Kings Arms & Royal Hotel  

 

2. Brockenhurst, New Forest 

The charming village of Brockenhurst is in the heart of the New Forest with walking routes to suit everyone. From the village you can wander ancient oak woodlands, venture further to spot wild ponies at Blackwater, or test your stamina on a circular trail along the Beaulieu River whilst enjoying the stunning scenery. 

Stay at: Forest Park Hotel 

 

3. Aberhonddu (Brecon), Powys 

At the foot of the Bannau Brycheinog hills Aberhonddu (Brecon) offers high mountain walking, such as the legendary Pen Y Fan on the doorstep. And if steep ascents aren’t for you, then the town is on the banks of the River Usk and the starting point for the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal so there are plenty of flat options in stunning scenery too. 

Stay at: The Castle Hotel 

 

4. Bakewell, Derbyshire 

Nestled in the Peak District National Park, the historic market town Bakewell is a great base for walkers. From its iconic Bakewell Bridge you can stroll along the Monsal Trail’s former railway arches, wander Chatsworth Estate’s manicured trails, or challenge yourself with the winding ascent to Mam Tor’s panoramic summit overlooking verdant Hope Valley. 

Stay at: The Rutland Arms Hotel 

 

5. Wells, Somerset 

Although Wells is a cathedral city, its charm and compact size make it great for walking. Located at the foot of the Mendip Hills, you can wander the grounds of the Bishop’s Palace, venture into the limestone woodland trails at Ebbor Gorge, or challenge yourself with the panoramic ridge walk to Cheddar Gorge’s towering cliffs. 

Stay at: The Swan Hotel 

 

6. Malton, North Yorkshire 

Malton in North Yorkshire offers flat easy walking along the River Derwent towards Castle Howard. Alternatively follow the footpaths across the Howardian Hills AONB, or tackle a section of the Yorkshire Wolds Way for panoramic views. 

Stay at: The Talbot Hotel 

 

7. Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire 

Moreton-in-Marsh is a charming Cotswold market town sitting on the edge of pretty rolling hills. From the historic Market Square you can follow ancient drovers’ roads to Bourton-on-the-Hill, explore the limestone slopes of Broadway Hill, or tackle the Warden’s Way towards Northleach. 

Stay at: The White Hart Royal Hotel 

 

8. Richmond, North Yorkshire 

The gorgeous market town Richmond is on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales with endless walking options. From the town itself you can explore the woods surrounding the River Swale, or further afield explore the waterfalls near Keld, or challenge yourself to climb the summit of Great Shunner Fell. 

Stay at: The Kings Head Hotel