Hiking holidays in England

The Pennine Way crosses England’s northern uplands, passing through the Peak District, Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland. Terrain ranges from the Peak District’s gritstone moors to Upper Teesdale’s waterfalls and upland hay meadows, then to remote moorland stretches. Kinder Scout and Bleaklow Head mark a challenging start from Edale; farther along, the trail follows the River Tees and crosses fields along the Leeds to Liverpool Canal. Underfoot, some sections are smooth and firm, while others are narrow, uneven, wet or boggy.

Long ascents and remote stretches shape days on the Pennine Way. Bad weather can make navigation difficult at Blackstone Edge, conditions can change quickly, and winter brings possible snow. Some sections have few places for food and drink, while Hebden Bridge has places to eat and stay. The trail is open all year and marked with acorn symbols or its name. Diversions can change the way ahead, so local signs matter.

Haworth, just off the trail, has places for food and drink and accommodation. Hebden Bridge, Thwaite and Keld also have places for food and drink. Many villages along the section beside the Leeds to Liverpool Canal have places to eat.

• Follow England's acorn waymarks

  National Trails use acorn symbols and welcome short walks, day trips and long-distance walking challenges.

• Pick a Coast to Coast section

  Walk the full Coast to Coast Path, choose a section or follow local circular walks linked to the trail.

• Check high routes in winter

  The Coast to Coast Path stays open all year, but high-level sections may be difficult in winter or bad weather.

• Cycle between Orton and Richmond

  Cyclists and horse riders can follow a trial riders route of the Coast to Coast Path between Orton and Richmond.

• Climb the Cleveland Hills

  The Coast to Coast Path climbs onto the Cleveland Hills, then follows a ridge across the North York Moors.

June to August suits hikers seeking the best chance of sunny days, with summer the warmest season and June typically the sunniest month. Late July and August bring school holidays, heavier travel and tricky parking in national parks. March to May and September to October often have milder weather and fewer crowds, making them strong choices for hikes in national parks. Spring can bring sudden rain showers, and England’s weather can change from hour to hour.

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and shorter days, with unsettled, stormy weather and strong gales more likely later in the season. Winter is often wet and cold, with snow possible, especially in the north, where transport schedules can be affected. Opening hours are often reduced from October to Easter, and some places shut for the entire winter.