From Okehampton to Belstone: A Winter Adventure in Devon
Distance: Roughly 10½ miles
Duration: Approximately 5 hours
Commence/Conclude: Okehampton Camp to Belstone
Route maps: Point of Origin/Point of Termination
Difficulty: Intermediate (increased challenge during adverse weather)
Refreshments: The Tors Inn, Belstone
In the picturesque vistas of west Devon, just beyond the military camp located to the north of Okehampton, you'll find the welcoming country roads inviting you into the heart of some of the area's most accessible and pleasurable peaks. One can choose to stroll leisurely, taking two to three hours, while indulging in the leisure of an outdoor picnic at either spot. However, for those seeking a more strenuous challenge on a winter day, an expedition that spans five to six hours through both these magnificent sites is recommended prior to a satisfying lunch.
If you're looking for a challenging winter walk in the UK, why not head to Dartmoor's second-highest summit, Yes Tor? Located near Okehampton Camp, this south-westerly hike offers stunning views and a sense of accomplishment. As you make your way towards the summit, you'll also have the opportunity to conquer High Willhays, the highest point on Dartmoor at 2,039 feet (621m), making it the tallest peak in the land south of the Brecon Beacons.
Living in South Devon, I'm more accustomed to the picturesque tors on my side of the moor, such as Haytor and Hound Tor. However, the allure of the northern part of the county lies in its expansive nature and vast skies. Unlike the popular tourist spots, the north allows walkers to find solitude and space, without having to compete for photo-worthy rocks or perform parkour stunts.
Starting from the summit of High Willhays, you can take a scenic route along a country road that leads to the impressive granite outcrops of Higher Tor and Belstone Tor. As you navigate around these ancient rock formations, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Okehampton and the picturesque River Taw flowing below.
Make sure to take your time and soak in the beauty of the surroundings as you scramble around the tors. After approximately thirty minutes, you'll reach the Nine Stones Circle, an intriguing ancient monument, before making your way to The Tors Inn in the charming village of Belstone.
The Tors Inn is a delightful little pub where you can unwind and enjoy a selection of mouthwatering treats. Indulge in their delectable range of pies, such as the heavenly stilton and leek combination. If you're in the mood for something more substantial, their ploughman's lunches, baguettes, or a traditional roast on Sundays are sure to satisfy your cravings.
After a satisfying meal, you can even choose to spend the night at The Tors Inn, which offers comfortable rooms starting at just £40 per person per night. It's the perfect way to extend your visit and fully immerse yourself in the tranquility of Belstone.
Chris Moss, a travel and nature writer based in Totnes, highly recommends this scenic route for an unforgettable winter walk in the UK.
Frogham to Fritham, Hampshire
Distance: A round trip of 11 miles
Duration: Roughly 3.5- 4 hours of walking, not factoring in breaks for pub visits
Point of commencement and conclusion: Abbots Well Car Park, located on Abbots Well Road in Frogham, in close proximity to Fordingbridge, New Forest
Google Maps
Intensity: Intermediate
Rest Stop: Royal Oak, Fritham
The journey from Frogham to Fritham and back again is appealing in and of itself, regardless of the pub stop. The lyrical charm of the locales' names aside, the sight that greets one at the start of the trek spans miles across a rough, untamed landscape: rolling heathland, spots of ruddy bracken, forest-enclosed valleys — and no dwelling or Fritham direction boards in sight. However, there is a downhill footpath intersecting an exquisite brook. Beyond lies pastureland in a shade of vibrant green. A unique feature was visible in November: the entire expanse sported thin, ethereal threads, woven by spiders, which seemed to float mere inches above the ground. They undulated and refracted light spectacularly in the rays of the waning sun. Fascinatingly, spiders use these filaments for ballooning, or aerial dispersal, riding the wind to colonize new areas far away from their birthplace.
Embark on a rejuvenating journey through the picturesque New Forest, where the tramp ahead promises a refreshing opportunity to stretch your legs and fill your lungs with crisp winter air. As you follow the chosen route, which meanders through a dense wilderness of hollies and oaks, the enchanting ambiance of this untamed woodland surrounds you.
Exiting the sheltered woodlands, you will find yourself immersed in vast open heathland, invigorated by the anticipation of a well-deserved pint. Providing a cozy haven dating back to the 17th century, the Royal Oak serves as the quintessential pub for fellow walkers, offering hearty winter fare without any unnecessary frills. Don't miss the ploughman's, a delectable dish featuring generous cuts of the region's distinctively nutty cheddar.
We're now approaching the most splendid section of the journey. Merely half a mile ahead of the Fritham Plain pub lies a tranquil pond bordered by a lush expanse of verdant grass. Though small in size, this modest body of water holds an ethereal charm. The undeniable mystery of it is that there isn’t an apparent water source, creating a curiosity about its origin. This modest pond gives an impression of divine existence - a sanctified oasis, perhaps fallen from the heavens. Among the ponds I've encountered throughout England, none have captured the same powerful enchantment as this one.
Words by Christopher Nicholson, renowned author of Among the Summer Snows (September Publishing)
Firle, East Sussex
Stretch: 4 miles
Estimated duration: Roughly 2 hours
Start and End point: Firle village parking bay
Directions on Google Maps
Level of difficulty: Beginner-friendly
Rest and Refreshments: The Ram in Firle
The Sussex Downs, where I typically traverse, are replete with elevated areas – such as Kingston Ridge, Mount Caburn, and Ditchling Beacon. Yet when winter comes, rather than schlep up and down the hills, I opt for a navigation around the lowland territory, resplendently adorned with flint-laden, fresh ploughed fields and numerous pheasants.
The journey commences from the villagers' parking lot and initially paces through a rather uneventful open downs. However, before long, you will be swept into the classic Sussex countryside featuring a charming cottage built with flint and hay bricks, located beside a pebbly path. Here, you can let your imagination wander – it's as though you are entering your own garden as you pursue the bridleway flowing through it. The trail circles back to the spectacular Firle Place.
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Imagine following the footsteps of Virginia Woolf, reciting poetry aloud as you venture across the picturesque fields leading to the Charleston farmhouse, an abode once graced by the esteemed painters, Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant. Upon arrival, engage in a moment of quiet reflection, learning about the history of the farmstead that once stood dilapidated but now stands as a globally recognized literary hub. Recalling the distinct personalities of the famed Bloomsbury clique, continue your walk towards Maynard Keynes' Tilton House, musing over their artistic talents and complicated romantic lives played out within these tranquil settings.
Experience an atmospheric journey back in time as you descend via the enclosed road leading back to the bucolic village. Relish in the quaint charm of Firle Estate's impeccably maintained blacksmith, carpenter, and paint shops – a poignant manifestation of a past era that adds a unique allure to your saunter.
Treat yourself to a well-deserved rest and warm sustenance at The Ram, distinguished by its distinct candle-lit ambience and the inviting warmth of triple fireplaces. Its popularity cuts across all seasons, so ensure to reserve a cosy spot in the snug. Enjoy a tantalising selection of the season's specials, beginning with a soup of celeriac, followed by succulent, pan-seared Sussex pheasant breast, reasonably priced from £12.
Authored by Tanya Shadrick, the resident writer at Pells Pools, Lewes, and curator of Watermarks: Writing by Lido Lovers & Wild Swimmers (Frogmore Press).
Oxford Canal
Distance: Roughly 6½ miles
Duration: About 3 hours
Commence/Terminate: Oxford Railway Station
Google Maps Location
Level of Difficulty: Light
Refreshment Spot: The Plough in Wolvercote
Walking back and forth along the same route might seem dull, however, with the Oxford Canal trail, such mundane vistas will be the least of your concerns, as the path is rich with historical and natural wonders.
As you reach the railway station, overlook the initial markers guiding towards the canal and head into town until you reach a bridge crossing the canal. Here, you'll find the start of the towpath to your left.
The early sections of this walk are flanked by picturesque residential narrowboats, transporting you to the world of Philip Pullman's Gyptian territory. The part of Jericho used to be heavily industrialized, and historians might recall the spectacle of Lucy's Ironworks illuminating the night with its fiery lights, but now it is purely a residential area. At this junction, you have the option to take a brief tangent to your left onto Port Meadow, which converts into a magnificent, expansive ice rink if it freezes over.
The Plough, Wolvercote
The 78-mile waterway once served as a vital coal transport route from the east Midlands to London. Nowadays, it functions as an alluring path, teeming with nature and wildlife, as well as human wanderers. It's not a rare event to discover traces of otter under the distinctively curved bridge located in Wolvercote.
My usual destination is Duke’s Cut, a place familiar to me because of friends who once lived on their narrowboat nearby, just beyond the towering ring road. This stretch is notably favored by otters, cleverly utilizing it to sidestep the hazards of the thoroughfare.
On your return journey to the train station, make sure to drop by The Plough in Wolvercote, a stone's throw away from the bridge (be mindful of any otter droppings!). A serving of its scrumptious "mucky chilli chips" - crispy chips slathered in a hearty vegetable chilli and smothered in cheese (£9.95) - will certainly offer comfort and warmth as you conclude your adventure.
The observations along these paths were first recorded by Hugh Warwick, an esteemed author known for Linescapes. It's a profound study into ecological impacts of the invisible boundaries that humans have imposed upon our landscapes (Published by Square Peg).
Bure Valley Circle, Norfolk
Walk Duration: Roughly 2½ hours
Track Span: Approximately 5 miles
Beginning/End Point: Horstead – click to view on Google Maps
Level of difficulty: Simple
Revive your energy: The Recruiting Sergeant is a fantastic pit stop.
Carved around rural Norfolk, the Bure Valley is truly a hidden gem, running from Melton Constable all the way through the Broads till Breydon Water. From vast skies to idyllic woodland and fen to peaceful freshwater grazing marshes and time-honored churches, this place leaves nothing to our imagination.
Begin your journey in Horstead and head towards the mill pool. Follow the Bure towards Buxton with Lamas, and continue the journey back, switching river banks with the trail as you go. Bure Valley's scenery is beautifully soft, the grasslands vibrant even in the harshness of winter. The colourful mix of dogwood , sweetcorn brushes, and freshly ploughed soil provide a vibrant contrast to the silvery greys of the river. Two of the most beloved landmarks along the way include the historic Mayton Bridge, built in 1640, the same year the Long Parliament was convened, and Hautbois Hall, a timeless Tudor edifice, standing in all its glory.
When summer arrives, the riverside beckons for an invigorating dip. Across the chillier months, a dramatic charm unfolds here, punctuated by the sounds and sight of barn owls, marsh harriers and brown hares which coexist with humble, yet seemingly constant inhabitants: cattle, sheep, and swans sauntering around the valley.
The captivating beauty that leads to Buxton is impossible to ignore. With the river taking a picturesque bend, an island nestled in its stream as the towering white mill looms large, standing testament to the village’s bustling past which centred around the powerful water wheel. Allow the scene to permeate your memory before you trace your steps back to Horstead. Here, a visit to the Recruiting Sergeant is a must. Its pristine white facade, pantiled roof, and rustic wooden beams are a sight for sore eyes. The menu boasts of delectable Swannington pork and longshore cod from the far-off Yarmouth. If the cold seeps in, warm up with local artisanal gins offered (assuming you're not the one behind the wheel). The place features a deli across the street and rooms on-site, just in case you decide to extend your sojourn indefinitely.
Chris Gribble, Chief Executive Officer, Writers’ Centre Norwich
Longshaw Estate to Fox House, Peak District
Distance: 6 miles
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Begin/End: Longshaw Estate Car Park
Google Maps
Difficulty: Light
Pit Stop: Fox House
Experience the calming aura of the eastern gritstone edges of the Peak District on this walk. The trail leads to Curbar Gap through White Edge and loops back via Froggatt and Curbar. The pathways are well-marked, making it difficult to lose your way even in challenging weather conditions.
You start your journey not far from Sheffield, with a conveniently located bus stop right outside The Fox House pub. The path meanders across a section of the Longshaw Estate and ascends White Edge. This part of Derbyshire has been a favored spot for my outdoor activities such as running and rock climbing since childhood.
Wandering through the open moorlands above Curbar, you might catch the echoes of climbers scrambling up the rocks, their karabiners clinking in an aural testament to the outdoor spirit. This terrain is wonderfully diverse and offers unexpected surprises, like spotting red deer around the trig point on White Edge during dawn or dusk. Historical heritage merges with natural beauty as you encounter some of Derbyshire’s Companion Stones - fascinating markers that bear inscriptions of poems as contemporary homage to the Guide Stoops that once guided wanderers through these moorlands centuries ago.
Following this invigorating adventure, replenish your energy at Fox House, a tempting gastropub offering a warm fireplace, quality wines and authentic ales. If you're more inclined towards a classic pub ambiance, make a stop at The Grouse, conveniently located on your route, and boasting an beer garden with remarkable views.
Helen Mort, a distinguished poet and editor who co-edited the One for the Road: An Anthology of Pubs and Poetry with Stuart Maconie (Smith/Doorstop), is an advocate for these memorable experiences in the English countryside.
Pass of Aberglaslyn and Cwm Bychan from Beddgelert, Snowdonia
Distance Covered: 4½ miles
Duration: 3 hours
Beginning/Ending Point: Beddgelert
Google Maps Location
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Rest and Replenish: Tanronnen Inn
At a cursory look, the Beddgelert village, adorned with stone and slate, could easily be considered the UK's reply to the picturesque allure of the Lake District. However, a brisk walk away lies Aberglaslyn Pass that transports you along a thrilling 'fisherman's path' elevated just above the jagged rapids of Afon Glaslyn. In Cwm Bychan, the area's rugged industrial history lies palpably before your eyes. This modest walk is rich with tastes from Snowdonia's geological, ecological, and cultural pantry, indeed packing a flavourful punch.
Prior to setting off, make sure to collect your hiking essentials in Beddgelert, and plan for a necessary visit to the last resting place of Gelert, the village's esteemed hound whose heartbreaking story has brought Beddgelert its recognition. From Beddgelert, set your course south towards Aberglaslyn Pass. Walking the narrow gorge trail is breathtaking, weaving past sizable boulders and rock formations, and does demand caution. Lapses in attention or a carelessly placed step could potentially lead to a tumble into the adjoining river, so keep adventures contained to the path.
When strolling around Pont Aberglaslyn, a notion may strike you of how intriguing it is that prior to the Porthmadog Cob, a seawall erected in 1810 and situated approximately five miles from here, tidal waters brushed against the base of this bridge. Venture to Cwm Bychan, where a verdant woodland recedes to unveil a haunting upland valley. Standing tall here are defunct pylons, silent testimonies of an era long past, whose purpose was to facilitate the conveyance of copper ore. Should stamina and time be on your side, from Bwlch-y-Sygyn extend your tour to encompass the enlightening exploration of the Sygun Copper Mine. End your sojourn on a high note at the inviting Tanronnen Inn, recognized for its commendable range of Robinsons beer, back in Beddgelert.
This journey was highly recommended by Carey Davies, notable for his role as a hill walking development officer for the esteemed British Mountaineering Council.
Whitby to Staithes, North Yorkshire
Walking Distance: Total of 10 miles
Duration: Approximately 5 hours
Walking Route: Commences at the Whalebone arch, Whitby and concludes at Cod & Lobster, Staithes
Route on Google Maps:Begin Here/End Here
Intensity Level: Moderate
Reward Yourself At: Cod & Lobster
Winter holds a unique charm. During these chilly periods, the sunbeam's minimized presence over the horizon results in an enhanced and dramatic landscape. The hues of the environment come to life with greens appearing lusher, and blues more radiant.
During the winter, I'm often drawn to the shoreline for my leisurely strolls. As the temperature plummets, the atmosphere becomes electrifying, and one can truly appreciate the intense narrative forged by the harshest conditions. This drama can be keenly observed along a 10-mile span of North Yorkshire's coastline, where the mighty North Sea clashes fiercely against the towering cliffs. Amidst this, one can observe wildlife, like the birds and marine creatures, braving these conditions. Little auks have been spotted seeking refuge amidst the frothy waves, an example of the incredible resilience of winter wildlife. Additionally, regular winter avian residents like the red-throated diver and the great crested grebe can frequently be seen riding the surges. Even a chance sighting of a harbour porpoise is not off the table!
The journey commences from the iconic whalebone arch in Whitby and continues northwards along the Cleveland Way - one of the 15 acclaimed National Trails of England and Wales. Your winter walk beings gently, strolling down the scenic boulevard above Sandsend beach. Of note, the views from here of Whitby and its Abbey unfolding in the distance are an encompassing spectacle that echo the haunting beauty that Bram Stoker captured in Dracula. The gothic ambiance is palpable here, making the walk an adventure in its own right.
As you navigate the trail perched atop the cliff, steep rocky slopes plunge beneath you down to the tempestuous sea. Veering towards the west around Kettleness, beautiful, weathered cottages with vibrant red roofs in the distance signify your approach to Runswick Bay. Upon tracing the trail further uphill, you will find yourself increasingly at the mercy of the elements. Despite the brisk North Sea wind – and notably harsh rain showers – you may trick yourself into thinking of this as bracingly refreshing, though your mind will doubtless stray towards the notion of a much-needed pub break.
The most awe-inspiring vistas are generously bestowed upon you as you reach the endpoint of this route. The Boulby Cliffs, which claim the title of loftiest on England’s eastern coastline, command your attention and are sure to impress, yet the conclusion of the walk is at the quaint fishing port of Staithes. As you look down from the height of the cliff, the Cod & Lobster stands proud and imposing by the harbour. It's then just a quick stroll downhill towards a well-deserved, frothy pint or two (though it's strongly advised to use the pub's rear entry should the sea be rough and a storm be brewing to avoid any unscheduled soakings).
Expect a warm welcome in this amiable pub. Be sure to check out the stunning archival photos on display showing the destructive storm of 1953 that literally took the front off the building. These days, the pub offers a congenial, snug atmosphere where patrons can select from a commendable list of brews, good enough to rank in Camra’s Good Beer Guide. It’s the perfect place to settle down with a delicious meal from the seafood-heavy menu and watch weather-tossed boats bobbing in the harbour, all comfortably viewed through the windows.
A contribution from Daniel Neilson, author of Wild Pub Walks, released by Camra Books
Angle Tarn from Langdale, Lake District
Length 6 miles
Time 3 hours
Start/finish The Old Dungeon Ghyll
Google Maps
Grade Easy/Moderate
Refuel The Old Dungeon Ghyll
Drawing you away from the chocolate-box shops and crowds of Ambleside, the B5343 floats into the quiet, wide valley of Langdale. Wild piked, jewelled with hidden pools at its heights, this part of the Lake District provides an accessible but uncrowded retreat. Here, I’ve ghosted the lyrical, dirtbag memories of 60s nature writer and mountain guide Gwen Moffat, who spent seasons sleeping rough, thawing out in the pub and exploring the remote fells that still hold their silence – no phone signal, no 4G.
Begin the walk at the Old Dungeon Ghyll: go behind the pub to find the paved path that leads to the circlet of crests at the end of the valley. Look for climbers roosting in the cracks on Raven Crag as you head onto the Cumbria Way. Follow the river, looking out for plunge opportunities.
Embark on a thrilling winter adventure by starting at the bridge, turning left, and following the path that ascends alongside Stake Gill. As you make your way, take in the breathtaking vistas of the untouched Langstrath valley and marvel at the moss-covered mounds near Black Crag. Keep this hidden gem in mind for future explorations, take a left turn, and traverse the ridge connecting Buck and Rossett Pike until you reach Angle Tarn. If you're feeling particularly brave (and you won't be alone in your daring), why not take a refreshing dip in the lake and hope that a mystical mist surrounds you in this enchanting spot.
Immerse yourself in a true winter wonderland as you discover the serene beauty of the Langstrath bowl and behold the captivating allure of Angle Tarn. Don't forget to pack your sense of adventure and prepare to be amazed by the hidden treasures that await you on this exhilarating journey.
Experience thrill by swift descending on Hanging Knotts' slope, before journeying back towards Cumbria Way with an unquenchable thirst for a cosy pub. Embrace mental images of brimming ale pints in your hands and charge towards the final hurdle, a quaint kissing gate that leads to the inviting ambience of a wooden hikers' bar. Surround yourself with the camaraderie of adventurers, and succumb to the allure of hearty servings of steak and ale pie or a traditional Cumberland sausage, generously laced with hot, mouthwatering gravy. Engage in enlightening discussion with Leo, a path builder by profession and a child of the pub, who will gladly decrypt the vivid painting of Black Jack, the infamous leader of the unconventional mountaineers' group known as the 'Bradford Lads'. Relish the joyous inebriation, and find solace in the National Trust campsite only half a mile away. Fall into a peaceful slumber, only to awaken to the sweet sound of nature’s silence.
Author: Claire Carter, a beloved writer and the artistic heart of the Kendal Mountain Festival ; and an esteemed engagement officer for the Outdoor Industries Association
Fun fact: the UK currently features over 200 National Trust campsites scattered through the country's most scenic areas. Furthermore, the Kendal Mountain festival is considered one of the premier mountain film festivals in the world, drawing in nature lovers from all over the globe.
Loch Trool, Dumfries & Galloway
Length 5½ miles
Time 3 hours
Start/finish Caldons car park at the western edge of Loch Trool
Google Maps
Grade Moderate
Refuel House O’Hill
Post-walk pub selection is never an agonising decision in the Galloway forest park… there is only one to choose from. Thankfully the House O’Hill inn in Bargrennan is first-rate. Quality over quantity is the park’s style, and the same could be said for this walk around Loch Trool, which crams bucket-loads of history, wildlife and landscape into a modest mileage.
Even the most navigationally challenged hiker would struggle to get lost on this walk. From the small car park, cross the bridge to pick up the green waymarks of the Loch Trool loop route and, well, that’s about it. Stick to the good path, keeping the water to your left, and you can’t go wrong as you circle the serene loch anti-clockwise. This is, perhaps, the finest scenery in all of south-west Scotland. Look out for darting red squirrels and elusive pine martens – and even listen for the ancient roar of battle.
Here, 700 years ago, Robert the Bruce and a band of 300 Scots defeated a 1,500-strong English army, hurling boulders at their enemy and pitching them into the water.
Explore the enchanting surroundings of the loch, making your way to the revered Bruce’s Stone memorial cairn and the captivating sessile oak woodlands. As you amble back to the car park, take a moment to revel in the tranquility of the area. Just a short 10-minute drive away lies the House O’Hill, known affectionately as “The Hoose". This cozy hotel-restaurant-pub has recently undergone a contemporary transformation, and delights visitors with its delectable offerings of locally sourced game and shellfish. Whether you prefer a hearty meal or a refreshing pint, The Hoose is the perfect spot to refuel after a day of hiking or mountain biking.
But the pleasures don't end there. Step outside and cast your gaze skyward - the remote location ensures that the inky black sky remains untainted by light pollution. This makes it one of the most extraordinary places in the UK for stargazing. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring celestial display above, seemingly untouched by human activity. A truly unforgettable experience.
According to James Forrest, an accomplished mountaineer who achieved the remarkable feat of climbing all 446 mountains in England and Wales within six months, this captivating location is one of the finest for an outdoor adventure.