There’s much joy to be had in spending quality time with yourself. Like by being a solo female traveller! Not every trip needs to be made solo, but sometimes, venturing out on your own is perhaps one of the best ways to learn about yourself, your strengths, and your weaknesses.
And when it comes to solo travel destinations for women, walking trails in the UK are getting very popular. The diverse landscapes are ideal for any solo female traveller as there are a plethora of scenic walking trails and countryside routes.
So anyone who wants to enjoy a sense of adventure and a safe and fulfilling experience, here are some ideas of the best trails and tips. But to get the best out of your walk, check out reputed tour operators like Mickledore as you prepare for your next adventure.
Cornwall beaches on the southern coast
Max length: 88 miles of adventure
Level of difficulty: Easy
Starting and finishing point: Minehead in Somerset to Poole in Dorset
How to reach: 5-hour drive from London to Cornwall
Cornwall’s beaches may not look like the French Riviera, but they are just great for any solo female traveller looking for blustery walks as the sun goes down. You can stroll along the coast and explore quaint fishing towns as little side trips. You’ll also find yourself surrounded by gorgeous scenery and are sure to love those walks along the beaches.
Southwest Coast Path
Max length: 630 miles of adventure
Level of difficulty: Difficult
Starting and finishing point: Minehead in Somerset to Poole in Dorset
How to reach: 2-hour drive from London
The Southwest Coast Path is the longest National Trail in the country that stretches for more than 600 miles! Of course, you can decide upon the distance and difficulty level as per your ability and preferences. Some of the strolls can be easy, while others can be challenging. Enjoy looking at the dramatic cliffs of Cornwall, the rugged beauty of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, and the sandy beaches of Devon.
Causeway Coastal Route
Max length: 630 miles of adventure
Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate
Starting and Finishing Point: Belfast to Londonderry
How to reach: 5-hour flight from London
Okay, so this is some ways away from bustling London, but the Causeway Coastal Route is indeed one of the best hikes in the whole of the UK. So, it may be worth the trip.
Walk along the coast from Dunseverick Castle to the Giant’s Causeway and enjoy a stunning hike along the cliffs. As the route is mainly flat and well-maintained, the walk is certainly not a difficult one. Enjoy looking at some striking rock formations and cliffs all along the walk, and you will simply love the scenery, which is absolutely gorgeous. You can spot Scotland in the distance as you stand gazing out to sea.
Cotswold Way
Max length: 102 miles of adventure
Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate
Starting and finishing point: Chipping Campden to Bath
How to reach: 1.5-hour train ride from London
This is an absolute musts to walk! Cotswold Way is a walking trail in the English countryside that stretches for over 100 miles. You’ll love the multiple trails in the area as you come across picturesque landscapes dotted with honey-coloured stone cottages. They can enjoy charming villages and rolling hills, get familiar with the local culture, and can interact with locals.
Hadrian’s Wall Path
Max length: 84 miles of adventure
Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate
Starting and finishing point: Wallsend, Newcastlein to Bowness-on-Solway coast
How to reach: 4-hour train ride from London
Hadrian’s Wall Path makes for an amazing journey. Embark on a walk along the ancient Roman wall and go on the trail that spans 84 miles. The excursion will take you through historic sites in Northern England, and you will pass through some stunning landscapes and amazing views. Along the way, there will even be opportunities to visit museums and explore Roman forts as you enjoy the serene countryside.
Pembrokeshire Coast Path
Max length: 186 miles of adventure
Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate
Starting and finishing point: St Dogmaels in the north to Amroth in the south
How to reach: 6-hour train ride from London
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is another peaceful and beautiful trail that meanders along the country’s stunning coastline. You’ll find this easy to moderate route a delightful one that will take you through some sandy beaches and islands with rugged cliffs.
Enjoy the panoramic views and tailor your walk accordingly, as some sections can be easy while others deemed moderate. Thankfully, it’s nothing too difficult, and the path is well signposted, so you’ll be well informed of accommodation and refreshment spots along the way.
West Highland Way
Max length: 96 miles of adventure
Level of difficulty: Moderate to difficult
Starting and finishing point: Milngavie in the south to Fort William in the north
How to reach: 11-hour train ride from London
West Highland Way is for you travellers seeking a more challenging adventure. The stunning 96-mile trail through the Scottish Highlands allows travellers to witness the rugged mountains, lochs, and glens in Scotland and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of nature. Solo women travellers with a reasonable level of fitness will simply love the walk as well as the warm hospitality of the Scottish people.
The Norfolk Coast Path
Max length: 84 miles of adventure
Level of difficulty: Easy
Starting and finishing point: Hunstanton to Sea Palling
How to reach: 4-hour train ride from London
Norfolk Coast Path is an excellent choice for anyone who’d prefer a more relaxed and serene walking experience. The route will take you through the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a protected landscape. You will come across salt marshes, stunning sandy beaches, wildlife-rich habitats, and more on this 84-mile trail. Enjoy the tranquility of the coastal scenery and explore those charming coastal towns and villages that come along the way.
The Yorkshire Dales
Max length: 80 miles of adventure
Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate
Starting and finishing point: West Yorkshire to Bowness-on-Windermere
How to reach: 5-hour train ride from London
The Yorkshire Dales is located in Northern England and set amidst beautiful scenery. Explore trails that go through rolling hills and enchanting valleys dotted with picturesque villages. Learn about the Three Peaks, which provides a myriad of walking options of varying lengths and difficulties. Take advantage of the region’s extensive network of footpaths and research the routes in advance for a more enjoyable experience.
Safety and advice for solo female travellers:
- Be sure to plan your route in advance, carry a detailed map and mobile phone with emergency contact numbers.
- Check the weather conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable walk, and adjust your itinerary accordingly.
- Bring appropriate gear and check the availability of accommodations in advance so as to avoid any unwelcome surprises.
- Consider joining walking groups, especially in isolated areas, and try to interact with fellow walkers, especially at night.
- As different sections of the walk can be easy, moderate, or tough, walkers can decide based on their fitness levels.
- Be wary of the trail conditions, distances, and potential hazards well in advance so that you are well prepared for any unforeseen circumstances.
- Check for information on coastal erosion before setting out, especially on trails along the coast, and be aware of the tide times as some sections may become inaccessible during high tide.
- Stick to well-travelled paths and dress appropriately for the walk and weather. Wear comfortable footwear and clothing for long walks.
- Carry essential supplies such as a refillable water bottle, snacks, a first aid kit, medications, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Respect local customs, wildlife, and the environment and follow the rules or restrictions in place, and leave no trace of your visit.
- Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable or unsure, seek assistance or change your plans.
- Always inform your family or close friend of your itinerary especially when walking in more remote sections. And be sure to update them of any changes.
