Home » United Kingdom Travel News » Discover the United Kingdom’s Unforgettable Hiking Trails Easily Accessible by Train for an Adventure-Filled Journey Under £Ten
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
The United Kingdom offers an incredible array of scenic and diverse hiking trails that can be easily accessed by train, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure without the hassle of driving. From tranquil lakeside loops to challenging mountain ascents, these trails are not only budget-friendly, with many costing under £10 for a return train ticket, but they also provide the opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the UK’s countryside, coastline, and vibrant nature reserves. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker, the UK’s accessible and affordable train-linked trails make it easier than ever to enjoy the great outdoors.
Discover the Best Hiking Trails in the UK Accessible by Train
In recent years, hiking has experienced a renaissance, especially among younger people seeking to escape the bustle of modern life and reconnect with nature. With the UK offering a rich variety of scenic trails, it’s easy to explore the great outdoors, even if you don’t have a car. Many of the best hiking routes in the UK are easily accessible by train, allowing nature enthusiasts to embark on their adventures without worrying about driving or parking.
Here’s a look at some of the best hikes in the UK for under £10, offering both gentle strolls and more challenging treks, all accessible by train.
Easy Hikes for a Quick EscapeHollingworth Lake Circular – ManchesterRoute Overview: Located near Manchester, this relatively easy hike offers a peaceful circuit around Hollingworth Lake. It’s perfect for a quick getaway, offering scenic views of the water and surrounding countryside.Getting There: From Manchester Victoria, take a train to Smithy Bridge. The trailhead is only a brief 15-minute walk from the station. A return ticket costs £8.30 off-peak.Attenborough Nature Reserve Loop – NottinghamRoute Overview: A hidden gem in Nottingham, this nature reserve loop takes you through lush wetlands and along the River Trent. Birdwatchers will love the chance to spot kingfishers, herons, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.Getting There: A short 10-minute train ride from Nottingham to Attenborough costs £3.90 for an anytime day return. The trail itself is easy and can be completed in about 1-2 hours.Formby Red Squirrel Loop – LiverpoolRoute Overview: Explore one of the last strongholds of the red squirrel in the UK at the Formby National Trust site. The loop winds through pine forests and along a tranquil beach, offering a gentle but beautiful walk.How to Get There: A round-trip fare from Liverpool Central to Formby is £6.95. The trail begins a 30-minute walk from the station.Romsey Riverside and Canal Loop – SouthamptonRoute Overview: This walk takes you through the charming market town of Romsey, past the historic Romsey Abbey and along the scenic River Test. It’s an ideal route for history buffs and nature lovers alike.Getting There: From Southampton Central, a return train ticket to Romsey costs £6. It’s a pleasant 2-hour walk through picturesque countryside.Moderate Trails for a Steady ChallengeWeston-Super-Mare Coastal Walk – BristolRoute Overview: Offering stunning coastal views, this trail runs along Weston Bay Beach and includes a hike up Uphill Beacon. The view from the top is worth the effort, with sweeping panoramas of the Somerset Levels.Getting There: A return ticket from Bristol Temple Meads to Weston-Super-Mare costs £9.30, and the walk will take a little over two hours to complete.North Berwick Loop – EdinburghRoute Overview: Starting with a beach stroll, this trail climbs up the volcanic North Berwick Law, offering breathtaking views of the Firth of Forth. It’s an ideal trail for those looking for a combination of coastal beauty and hill walking.Getting There: From Edinburgh Waverley, take a return train to North Berwick for £9.10. The trail itself takes around two hours to complete.Lickey Hills – BirminghamTrail Overview: If you’re seeking a hike near Birmingham, the Lickey Hills route provides a steady ascent to Beacon Hill, one of the area’s highest points highest points in the region. It’s perfect for a half-day hike, offering spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.Getting There: The trail starts at Barnt Green Station, which can be reached from Birmingham New Street with an off-peak return ticket costing £6.Caerphilly Mountain Loop – CardiffRoute Overview: This moderate trail takes you through rolling moorlands and country lanes before reaching the summit of Caerphilly Mountain. The hike, which takes around three hours, rewards you with stunning views of the surrounding valleys.Getting There: A return ticket from Cardiff Central to Caerphilly costs £5.77. The mountain trail begins just a short walk from the station.Banbury Fringe Circular Walk – OxfordRoute Overview: A tranquil walk through rural countryside, the Banbury Fringe Circular Walk takes you past canal towpaths and through the lush Cherwell Valley. This peaceful route can be done in about four hours, offering a true escape from urban life.Getting There: From Oxford, take a return train to Banbury for £8.70. The walk is a perfect option for those looking to spend a quiet day in nature.Harder Trails for Seasoned HikersHarden Valley Circular – LeedsRoute Overview: For a more strenuous hike, the Harden Valley Circular trail is the most challenging on this list. This six-hour hike takes you through ancient woodlands and past the beautiful Goit Stock Waterfall. You’ll also get panoramic views of the Aire Valley, making this an unforgettable trek.Getting There: To reach the trail, take a return train from Leeds to Bingley for £9.20. The trail is a perfect challenge for seasoned hikers looking for a full day of outdoor adventure.
The United Kingdom offers an array of stunning hiking trails easily accessible by train, providing a cost-effective way to explore its natural beauty. With many trails under £10, it’s the perfect adventure for hikers of all levels.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, the UK offers a wealth of diverse trails that are easily accessible by train. These routes provide an excellent opportunity to get outside, breathe in the fresh air, and immerse yourself in nature without the hassle of driving. With many trails costing less than £10 for a return train ticket, it’s easier than ever to explore the stunning landscapes that the UK has to offer. Tie up your hiking boots, grab your train ticket, and embark on an unforgettable journey.
