One of the unexpected positives of the Covid pandemic is that many of us had the opportunity to become better acquainted with the natural wonders that surround us. And there’s nothing quite like crowning off a walk in the countryside by gazing in awe at a spectacular scene.  Whether it’s a dramatic coastal feature, rock formations or just a miles-long expanse of green and pleasant land, a fantastic view can make for a brilliant walk. 

From Cornwall to the Highlands, read on to discover just seven of the stunning locations you can explore across Britain’s world-class walking network.  There’s plenty to see, so go fetch your walking boots and camera! 

1. Amroth, Pembrokeshire 

The Ramblers was instrumental in the 2012 opening of the Wales Coastal Path. The first path of its kind in the world to stretch around a country’s entire coastline, it offers an impressive 870 miles of walking to keep even the most ambitious hikers busy for days on end. You can enjoy a prime slice of it on this gentle two-hour walk from Amroth to Wiseman’s Bridge. 

Not only can you look forward to views of the famous west Wales coast, but the route also takes you past the remains of a 19th-century railway line and passes through the verdant grounds of the National Trust's Colby Woodland Garden estate. Amroth itself is a great destination for a short family break, thanks to the Amroth Castle Holiday Centre, which offers self-catered accommodation in the surroundings of a beautiful 18th-century house. 

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2. Cheddar Gorge, Somerset 

If you want breathtaking panoramic views in Somerset, you need to head to Cheddar Gorge. This figure of eight walk enjoys spectacular bird’s-eye views of England’s deepest gorge, herds of rare Soay sheep grazing on inaccessible cliff ledges, long-distance panoramas from the top of the Mendips, Roman lead mines and prehistoric sites. 

This walk is particularly rewarding during the warmer months when there’s less potential for slippery conditions, and coming in at just under six miles, is a leisurely way to see this jewel of the West Country. 

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3. Brimham Rocks, North Yorkshire – The Druids’ Playground 

These weird and wonderful rocks are one of the most unique geological landmarks in the country, and this challenging but enjoyable route is guaranteed to provide you with a view that’s worth all the hills! 

Around eight miles north-west of Harrogate – a picturesque town that’s the ideal place to base yourself in – these limestone rocks are thought to have been weathered into their otherworldly shapes before, during and after the last Ice Age around 100,000 years ago. Before the 20th century, theories abounded that these rocks had been carved by Druids (hence the name, The Druids’ Playground). Confident walkers can see these rocks in all their glory on this nine-mile route via a delightful riverside path, which runs southeast from Pateley Bridge. 

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4. Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh 

You’ll enjoy wonderful views of the Scottish capital when you walk up the Royal Mile to the grounds of Edinburgh Castle, but for unparalleled views of the city and the coastline beyond, you can’t beat a walk to Arthur’s Seat. This ancient volcano dominates the hills that sit in Holyrood Park and makes the perfect centrepiece for this two-hour circular walk, which starts at the Scottish Parliament near the impressively grand Palace of Holyroodhouse. 

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5. Patterdale, Penrith 

There are few better examples of the rich, diverse beauty of England than the Lake District, and its second largest lake, Ullswater, is well worth a visit. This nine-mile-long shimmering ribbon, flanked by craggy mountain faces, provides stunning views from every vantage point. 

Nestled on its southernmost shore, the Cumbrian village of Patterdale makes for the ideal starting point for this route short, simple route. Setting off from the youth hostel, you’ll walk along the banks of the Goldrill Beck, then a short climb along a lane up to the return footpath, which has fine views of the south end of Ullswater and the surrounding mountains. 

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6. Sandwood Bay, Highlands - The Mermaid's Rest 

Normally you’d associate the Scottish Highlands with blankets of purple heather across rough, undulating terrain – less so white-sand beaches. And while the Ramblers offers plenty of routes that’ll deliver the former, the latter is the focal point of this spectacular route on the far northern coast. 

Starting off at the Blairmore car park, the route takes you to Sandwood Bay and back, where you’ll find a gloriously wild beach with beautiful dunes and cliffs, including the lone rock stack Am Buachaille. Look out for swooping great skua gulls and red deer along the way. 

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7. Kynance Cove and Lizard Point, Cornwall 

For this final walk, we travel from the far north of our isle to its southernmost point, the picture book paradise of Cornwall. Kynance Cove makes for a lovely beach day, with its striking rocky outcrops that stretch away from the shore and into the water. It’s also home to the Lizard National Nature Reserve, where you’ll discover rare flora and fauna. 

This gorgeous circular walk, lasting around two and a half hours, allows you to take in all the sights and sounds from both Kynance Cove and Lizard Point. 

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Explore more 

We’ve got ideas for hundreds of wonderful walking routes across England, Scotland and Wales, long and short, easy and challenging. Search for routes on our website.  Or join a guided walk with a local Ramblers group. Find your nearest Ramblers group and choose a walk that suits your pace, fitness and interests.