Walks with beautiful views in England

Whenever The Carter Company team heads to travel trade conventions, either home or abroad, to meet with other like-minded people and organisations to discuss all things cycling and walking related, we are always struck by how many foreigners mention the stunning English countryside as a key reason to book a holiday here. Of course, we couldn't agree with them more! What is so unique about a bike tour or walking holiday in Britain is that you can enjoy cityscapes and countryside all in the same trip. Even just a stone's throw away from London there are some fantastic walking routes that feel very far from the madding crowds and allow you to get up close with England's beautiful flora and fauna.

Which walks in England have the best views?

One the questions we are most commonly asked is: "Where are the best walks with stunning views in England?" Below we have listed our top 3 choices.... let us know if we've missed any of your favourites!

1. Hadrian's Wall & Housesteads Roman Fort

The dramatic view of Hadrian's Wall riding on the west of the Whin Sill (an outcrop of hard rock) is simply astounding. There are also some stunning panoramic views to enjoy from the walls of the ancient fortress of Housesteads, which is situated on an escarpment of Hadrian's Wall. It is widely recognised as the most complete example of a Roman fort in Britain, and is among the best-known from the entire Roman Empire. The site has been the focus of antiquarian and academic enquiry since the 18th century. Hadrian's Wall country is a great choice for a walking holiday as it has something for everyone - world class archaeology, spectacular landscapes, rare wildlife, complete solitude, vibrant cities, wonderful pubs and a population of friendly and welcoming people.

2. The Ceredigion Coastal Path

Our next suggestion is to head to Wales and take in the views over the Atlantic from the Ceredigion Coastal Path. Seals and dolphins are residents in abundance here so if you're lucky you might spot one as you walk this route. Discover the area’s rich history, from iron-age hill forts to medieval fish traps to 19th century harbours, and expect stunning scenery, picturesque villages and a wealth of wildlife. The variety of landscape is quite incredible, with the dune system at Ynys-las, high cliffs, storm beaches, sandy bays and sea caves. Four sections are designated as Heritage Coast whilst two areas within Cardigan Bay are Marine Special Areas of Conservation because of their importance for wildlife

3. The North Coast of Devon & Exmoor

Book a walking holiday here and delight in pretty views of the seaside towns of Lynemouth and Lynton. Our route then turns inland and offers the opportunity for some amazing views of the moors. During rutting season, you may see (and hear, they make quite an extraordinary noise!), magnificent stags. Our host in Devon spotted one in the Dunkery Beacon area, which is the highest point on Exmoor and in Somerset, England. The beacon is blanketed in heather, which gives it a deep purple colour during the summer. In terms of wildlife, there are Exmoor ponies, red deer, wood warblers, lesser spotted woodpeckers, redstarts, snipe, and kestrels. Horner Woods nearby are also the home to 14 of the 16 UK bat species, which include barbastelle and Bechstein's bats. A treat indeed!

We offer tailor-made walking holidays in all the areas mentioned above - please contact us for more details.