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When people think of London, their first thoughts are typically the bright lights of Picadilly Circus or the hustle and bustle of the many restaurants and clubs that line the city streets. However, London is far more than just a buzzing city centre.
The city and its outskirts are packed with several walking and hiking paths that will not only provide you with some exquisite sights but will also give you a great workout without you even noticing.
If you plan to do plenty of walking in London then it is important to get your footwear right. Comfortable orthotic sandals for women can make a big difference if you need them.
Goring Gap & Thames Path
One of the most beautiful walks you can take, and one that you should have your instant camera on hand for, is the Goring Gap and Thames Path. It is 5 miles in length, making it perfect for an early morning run or late afternoon walk.
You can reach and leave the start and end of this walk via Paddington Station, and it is ideal for those who want a calm able in a rural area.
Epping Forest Oak Trail
The 6000-acre Epping Forest is an ancient wood that allows visitors to walk around rambling paths, exploring this ancient area. Found just outside of the city, the main trail is 6,6 miles long, and if you stick with it, you can end up in the very secluded Northern Realms.
You can pass through a deer sanctuary, visit an Iron Age earthworks, as well as walk around the sight where Boudicca apparently fought the Romans.
Box Hill
Box Hill is a very well-known location with an even better walk. At almost 7 miles long, the final stages of the walk involve climbing nearly 300 steps to the top of Box Hill, a rite of passage for many who walk the path regularly.
Not to mention, once you are done with your walk, you can head down to one of the several pubs and restaurants in the nearby towns for a snack, a quick bite to eat, or a late afternoon drink before you head home.
The Kentish Coast
The Kentish Coast is already easily one of the most beautiful places in all of the UK, and the winding seaside trails and paths will take you on a journey along the coast and to many ancient towns and villages.
Along the route, you can stop in Ramsgate, Broadstairs, and Margate, along with several other smaller and less populated villages. At almost 10 miles long, it is the ideal way to see the Kentish Coast by foot.
Chess Valley
Located in the Chilterns, the Ches Valley is the ideal place to take in the simple and calming beauty of the English countryside. The 10-mile-long path follows the river and takes you through forests and meadows before you end up at Chesham Station.
Not only can you get stuck into the wilderness around you, but the walk will also take you through the villages of Latimer and Chenies, two villages which have had several appearances in Midsummer Murders.
Marlow
Many Londoners may be accustomed to the River Thames looking dark and dreary; however, it isn’t like that everywhere. If you take a trip to the beautiful town of Marlow in Buckinghamshire, you can enjoy the Marlow Circular and a glorious stretch of the Thames.
The walk is over 13 miles long and goes around the quaint town, taking you through forests and fields, as well as passing by several historic pubs and buildings along the way.
Ashridge Estate
The circular walk around the outskirts of the Ashridge Estate looks like something out of a fairytale. With thousands of trees lining the path and the sound of the many creatures and critters that call the forests home, you will feel like you have stepped into a storybook.
The walk is 16 miles long, but no matter where you start or finish, you are sure to be met with a beautiful stretch of pathway in front of you.
Hampstead Heath
Another famous area and walk on this list is Hampstead Heath. You don’t even need to travel far, as this hike starts and ends at Hampstead station. At 6.5 miles long, you will be surprised at how much is packed into this walk.
It explores some of the best places London has to offer, including the Highgate cemetery, as well as stopping on top of the beautiful Parliament Hill.
Mole Gap Trail
The Mole Gap Trail is a bit of a hidden gem for those not in the know, but it is one of those walks you are going to want to do over and over again. Not only is Mole Gap a fantastic walk, but it also offers a few delightful extras.
Along the 5-mile path, you will pass 18 century houses, as well as a vineyard; a walk isn’t complete without stopping for a few snacks and a couple of glasses of wine.
Hastings Circular
Finally, Hastings Circular is a 6-mile long hike that starts in Hastings Old Town and then rambles down the coast at Rock-A-Nore, before you head on for a cliff-top coastal walk. Don’t be fooled, though; the Hastings Circular is all about the views.