Walking Retreats with Walkingworld

Working closely with Walkingworld, we’ve selected some of the best walks right here in the British Isles. From the rugged coastlines of the south-west to the peaks of the Lake District, around the Norfolk Broads or close to the dolphin-filled bays of Wales, you’ll find a walk for every ability, all close to your Original Cottage. Whether you’re a pro-hiker or ramble-enthusiast, and wherever your path takes you, stay truly local with us.

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Cornwall

Perranuthnoe - Kenneggy - Prussia Cove - Perranuthnoe
ID 5487        5 miles
Discover a fabulous stretch of Cornish coastline, all the better for having a chequered past. Prussia Cove was home to notorious 18th-century smugglers, the Carter family. The various coves were ideal for slipping into unseen and the paths leading off into the hinterland perfect for the swift dispersal of contraband.

Stay at: Song of the Sea 

Devon

Bere Alston - River Tamar - Bere Alston
ID 8294        5 miles
From Bere Alston we wander down past the hidden cottages of Tuckermarsh Quay and along the riverbank, passing Ferry Farm, once a shipbuilding yard, and under the imposing Calstock Viaduct. There are splendid views of Calstock and of Cotehele Quay, and plenty of opportunities to see birdlife along the Tamar.

Stay at: The Chapel

Dorset

The Two Castles of Corfe Castle
ID 8076        2.5 miles
The walk visits a viewpoint overlooking the entire village and its spectacular and famous castle ruin. A path from here takes us to a rarely visited historical monument called The Rings. These earthworks are the remains of a motte and bailey castle once constructed to lay siege to the larger Corfe Castle.

Stay at: Old Dairy House

Kent

Eynsford – Farningham – Horton Kirby - Eynsford
ID 5630        8.1 miles
We keep company with the River Darent as it flows through meadows, woods and fields between Eynsford and Horton Kirby. The route passes Lullingstone Roman villa to visit Farningham with its historic houses, imposing Mill House and unusual 18th Century brick cattle gate constructed to prevent cows wandering upriver. 

Stay at: Lime Trees

Lake District

Borrowdale and Castle Crag from Seatoller and Rosthwaite
ID 2536        5 miles
From the charming village of Seatoller, we follow a lofty terrace on the western side of Borrowdale, with excellent views to the surrounding fells. After passing Castle Crag the walk descends slowly to meet the River Derwent. There is a relaxing riverside stretch through enchanting woodland and an optional diversion to Rosthwaite. 

Stay at: Dale End Farm

Lancashire

Cockerham - Glasson - Lancaster Canal - Cockerham
ID 633    11 miles
From Cockerham, we make for the shore and the ruins of Cockerham Abbey, with views over the feeding grounds of many species of birds. The route turns inland along the River Lune for a tour of Glasson Dock. The way back is overland, using the little gem of the Lancaster Canal and some pleasant field-paths.

Stay at: Wagtail Cottage

Norfolk

Ludham Bridge – Ludham – St Benet's Abbey – Ludham Bridge
ID 5109        7.5 miles
We start by following a meandering path alongside the River Ant, heading towards the stunning nature reserve of How Hill and the village of Ludham. The route back to the bridge goes via the ancient ruin of St Benet's Abbey. The abbey is one of the most photographed locations in the Norfolk Broads.

Stay at: Toadstool Cottage

Northumberland

Seahouses Saunter
ID 2106        2.5 miles
From the lively seaside resort of Seahouses, we follow the old railway line to North Sunderland. From here the walk crosses pastures and onto the beach at Monks House. A leisurely stroll or paddle along the beach brings us back Seahouses, where a fish and chip supper awaits those with a sea air appetite.

Stay at: Wamsas Studio

Suffolk

Orford - Rivers Ore and Butley - Gedgrave - Orford
ID 1359        9 miles
On this walk, we experience the vastness of the sky and seascapes of East Anglia. There are superb views of Orford Ness and Havergate Island across the River Ore. We walk along the River Butley and pass the medieval castle at Orford and the church, which has associations with Benjamin Britten. 

Stay at: Pump Cottage

Sussex

Brighton Pavilion - Red Hill - The Racecourse - The Laines
ID 268        8.1 miles
A real variety here, starting from the famous Pavilion, visiting the shops, cafes and pubs of the Lanes and North Laines, a stretch along the seafront by the pier and a hike onto the chalk downs for views of sea and city, passing along the perimeter of the racecourse. 

Stay at: Windmill View

Yorkshire

Hutton Village - Roseberry Topping - Highcliff Nab
ID 2126        4.7 miles
On the northern edge of the North York Moors National Park, the walk takes you up its three peaks: Roseberry Topping, Little Roseberry and Highcliffe Nab. On a clear day, the views stretch out across County Durham to the west and across Middlesbrough, Hartlepool and the coast to the east.

Stay at: Swallow Cottage

Wales

Aber Falls Circular
ID 3246        3.4 miles
We start through woodland, following the river upstream and through the Coedydd Aber National Nature Reserve, from which we emerge with Aber Falls in full view. A short walk takes us to the falls, with crystal-clear pools at its base, then on to Rhaeadr-fach, another waterfall about half a mile away.

Stay at: Y Bera