Best areas to live in the UK if you’re a walker
Walking – or as they call it in the US, hiking – is one of the healthiest activities out there. Along with the wide-ranging health benefits, this hobby encourages great conversations, and helps us explore beautiful scenery along the way.
If you’re serious about getting out for bigger and better walks, moving house could help you get closer to some incredible routes. You’ll need to choose somewhere that suits your career and other hobbies, and you shouldn’t neglect local amenities either.
To help you explore some options, here are three of the best UK regions to live for great quality walking.
Northern England: Lake District and Yorkshire Dales
Many people dream of living near the Lake District National Park, but moving there is worth careful consideration. However, this mountain region can feel remote compared to other parts of the UK.
- Pros: Incredible mountain walks with endless trails. Peaceful rural lifestyle with small towns, country pubs, and outdoor shops.
- Cons: Remote, yet sometimes busy with tourists. High annual rainfall.
Regardless, living here places you just steps away from beautiful rolling hills and extensive trail networks. You’ll discover incredible perks, like being able to spontaneously start weekend-long walks without booking travel or time off work.
Essential amenities are still widely available in small towns. Many of which, including Keswick, are teeming with the local shops where you can pick up waterproofs, boots, and reliable men’s jackets for unpredictable weather.
Scotland: The Highlands and Cairngorms
The Scottish Highlands are breathtaking, no matter how many times you visit. With rugged, dramatic scenery and varied terrain suitable for experienced walkers and newcomers alike, this is a wonderful place for active families to live.
- Pros: Beautiful mountains, clearly marked trails and an expansive network of footpaths. Amenities available within driving distance.
- Cons: Cold winters and isolated villages. Limited career opportunities in rural areas, unless you work remotely.
Living near vast lochs and mountains offers significant advantages for both day trips and longer excursions. Walking over the winter can be a little more extreme in Scotland, so you’ll need to get familiar with basic winter skills first.
And because this location is so popular with walkers, you won’t have any trouble finding local explorer clubs and outdoor retailers to support your adventures.
South West England: Dartmoor and Exmoor
If the mountains aren’t really your thing, there are plenty of stunning options in the southwest. From luscious rolling fields to thick forests and bountiful moorlands, both Dartmoor and Exmoor promise incredible walking routes.
- Pros: Warmer, drier climate than northern regions. Picturesque scenery and ample local jobs and amenities.
- Cons: Busier tourist seasons, and potentially limited routes. Walks might not be challenging enough for professionals.
There’s a certain charm to living in rural yet accessible regions. Heading to South West England also gives you a mixed bag of terrain – you can explore moorland, rivers, beaches and forests on the same trip. This area offers greater flexibility for tailored route planning, especially if you only want a shorter walk.
No matter your preferences, you’ll be able to find a new home that supports your active, outdoorsy lifestyle. Just don’t forget to prioritise proximity to a strong community and practical amenities alongside the trails. And before you hit the footpaths, make sure you’ve invested in quality outdoor essentials.