What better way to prepare for the busy autumn season and enjoy the end of summer in the open air than a hike in a picturesque scenery. We all know how important physical activity is for our mental well-being too, while encouraging people to focus on their health and making positive lifestyle changes.
Hiking can significantly boost your mood and improve sleep, making it a great hobby to incorporate into a healthy lifestyle.
The best UK hikes for August bank holiday weekend
In a bid to find out, the experts at Live Football Tickets took on the mission of mapping out the best moderate-difficulty hikes in the UK, analysing over 500 routes whilst considering scenery, unique attractions, and perfect spots to relax and refuel, revealing the ten best hikes for a wholesome day out.
The Best UK Hikes Studded with Attractions
| # | Circular Route | Locationย | rating/5 | Length (km) | Elevation (m) | Estimated time (min) | Attractions | Score/10 |
| 1 | Aira Force and Gowbarrow Park | Lake District | 4.8 | 6.9 | 392 | 155 | 8 | 9.68 |
| =1 | Buttermere Lake | Lake District | 4.8 | 7.4 | 171 | 114 | 8 | 9.68 |
| =3 | Hunter’s and Fisherman’s Path to Castle Drogo | Dartmoor | 4.8 | 7.1 | 329 | 143 | 7 | 9.28 |
| =3 | Little Langdale and Elterwater | Lake District | 4.8 | 10.8 | 470 | 212 | 7 | 9.28 |
| 5 | Wordsworth’s Grasmere and Rydal | Lake District | 4.7 | 12.1 | 483 | 228 | 10 | 9.23 |
| =6 | Teesdale Three Waterfalls | North Pennines National Landscape | 4.7 | 8 | 173 | 121 | 9 | 9.20 |
| =6 | Skelwith Force, Colwith Force and Cathedral Quarry | Lake District | 4.7 | 8.4 | 356 | 163 | 9 | 9.20 |
| =6 | Padley Gorge | Peak District | 4.7 | 9.3 | 323 | 167 | 9 | 9.20 |
| =6 | Teggs Nose, Ridgegate Reservoir, and Trentabank Reservoir | Peak District | 4.7 | 10 | 444 | 198 | 9 | 9.20 |
| 10 | Langsett Reservoir and Little Don River | Peak District | 4.7 | 5.8 | 237 | 111 | 8 | 9.07 |
1. Aira Force and Gowbarrow Park, Lake District
With an overall score of 9.68/10, Aira Force and Gowbarrow Park Circular takes the lead as the best hike for a wholesome day out. On the ascent, which reaches one of the steeper summits in the dataset of 329m, hikers can expect to witness the roaring 65ft Aira Force waterfall.
With a gleaming average review of 4.8/5, and eight attractions embedded throughout the route, this moderately challenging hike has a picturesque cobblestone tearoom close to the main car park, serving snacks and beverages to power you up or refuel after trekking.
2. Buttermere Circular, Lake District
Again, scoring 9.68/10 is Buttermere Circular, which is a must for anyone who loves breathtaking lake views and peaceful scenery. With a 4.8/5 star review and eight attractions along the way, this moderate 7.4 km route takes trekkers all around Buttermere Lake.
With no major obstacles, it’s gentle 171m elevation makes it accessible to most walkers. Itโs an ideal choice for soaking up the stunning reflections of the fells in the still waters of Buttermere and has a quaint farmhouse cafe just a few minutes off the route, where local produce can be enjoyed.
3. Hunterโs and Fishermanโs Path to Castle Drogo, Dartmoor
Winding through the dramatic landscapes of Dartmoor National Park, Hunterโs and Fishermanโs Path to Castle Drogo ranks third with a score of 9.28/10. This 7.1 km circular route is a dream for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
With a 4.8/5 review and seven key attractions, the trail takes you along the banks of the River Teign, across the Fingle Bridge, where mid-adventure refreshments can be enjoyed at a historic pub, before leading up to the magnificent Castle Drogo, a 20th-century fortress with incredible views. A moderate challenge with 329m elevation, this hike offers a perfect mix of riverside awe and historical intrigue.
4. Little Langdale and Elterwater Circular, Lake District
Little Langdale and Elterwater Circular ranks joint third, scoringย 9.28/10. For those looking for a hike that combines Lake District charm with varied landscapes, this 10.8 km route is a fantastic choice. With an average review of 4.8/5, the moderate walk takes you through seven attractions, including crystal-clear tarns, Cathedral Caves, and Slater Bridge.
Theย 470m elevation makes it one of the more challenging hikes in the top ten, but around the routeโs summit, hikers can find a tea room positioned perfectly to take in views or, for a more rewarding experience, can hold on for a trip to the local pub situated close to the Elterwater National Trust car park.
5. Wordsworthโs Grasmere and Rydal Circular, Lake District
Ranking fifth with a score of 9.23/10 is Wordsworthโs Grasmere and Rydal Circular, stretching 12.1 km through Grasmere and Rydal. This moderate hike, rated 4.7/5, is packed with ten attractions, including the stepping-stone paved Rydal cave and the tranquil shores of Grasmere Lake.
Theย 483m elevation makes it a slightly tougher trek, but the historic beauty of the landscape, combined with the stunning 19th-century Rydal Hall and its quaint tearooms, makes it a memorable journey. To round off the route, the cosy Badger Bar is a common stop-off point for those taking hikes around the area.
PA Life’s destination spotlight in our Spring 2025 issue features three top hotels in the Lake District and Lancashire.
