Top Travel Spots for Walking This Summer with the National Trust

Alyson Goldman - Wednesday August 02, 2017 9:37

Meander through meadows and moorland, parkland and gardens, by lakes and on the coast. You can enjoy the colorful blooms of summer and see birds and butterflies on the wing. Take in the views as you explore some of the places we care for on our favorite summer walks.

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Bolt Head, Devon

Discover the dramatic coast around Salcombe, walking from East Soar to the charming secluded beach at Soar Mill Cove. After a rest on the beach, journey around the jagged rocks at Bolt Head and drink in the fantastic views as you walk up the Salcombe Estuary.

Boscastle and the Valency Valley, Cornwall

Beginning in the picturesque seaside village of Boscastle, this walk explores the cliffs above Boscastle’s medieval harbour before heading inland across the Valency Valley and through peaceful woodland, alongside the meandering Valency River.

Craster to Low Newton, Northumberland

For a bracing and beautiful coastal walk, Northumberland is without compare. This walk takes you past Embleton beach, winner of BBC Countryfile Magazine’s Beach of the Year award. Setting off from the fishing village of Craster, passes the mighty ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, and the long sweep of Embleton Sands before reaching Low Newton by the Sea. It’s a wonderful walk all year round but is ideal for paddling (or swimming for the brave) in summer.

Derwent Valley, Peak District

Wonderful for taking in the many Peak District habitats, this walk will lead you alongside the Ladybower Reservoir, through farmland and up steep wooded cloughs, before emerging high on top of the moors. The panoramic views of the Derwent Valley and much of the Dark Peak are are stunning on a clear summers day.

Devil’s Dyke, West Sussex

Devil’s Dyke Histories and Mysteries walk has stunning views and the opportunity to see kestrels and the remains of an Iron Age hill fort. The trail passes through chalk land and woodland, with a café en route, and then on to one of their working farms, Saddlescombe. The walk finishes near a country pub for a final pit stop

Dunstable Downs, Bedfordshire

The coloured jewelled way-markers on this pleasant route form a loop at the top of Dunstable Downs, taking in woodland, grassland and, as you return to the Chiltern Gateway Centre and open pastures with views of Aylesbury Vale.