Get outdoors! GP’s top 5 UK hikes


Hiking makes us happier and healthier, and gives us a great opportunity to discover some of the UK’s most stunning natural landscapes. So this weekend, why not do something different – something invigorating? Dig out those walking boots, wrap up warm, pack a flask of tea and try one of these top treks, as rated by the GP team...

1. Stanage Edge, Peak District


Perched on the moors north of Hathersage in the Peak District is Stanage – a mighty gritstone edge that stretches for around four miles. Popular with walkers and rock climbers alike, the edge offers awe-inspiring panoramas of the Dark Peak moorlands and Hope Valley. See how many abandoned millstones you can spot!

2. Tryfan, Snowdonia


Pack your ‘proofs… Snowdonia is subject to some of the UK’s heaviest rainfalls, but it’s also one of our most magnificent national parks. From the ground, the jagged peaks of Tryfan mountain appear challenging and may dissuade some people from attempting an ascent, but it’s not as scary once you’re up there – and the views from the top are unbeatable. That said, some mountaineering skills are required, as you’ll have to scramble parts of the northern route and jump a five-foot gap between the infamous Adam and Eve rocks.

3. Ben Nevis, Scottish Highlands


Feeling fit? Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the British Isles and attracts around 100,000 visitors each year. The tourist track (or mountain track) is the most popular way up and ideal if you’re not an experienced mountaineer. That’s not to say it isn’t strenuous: it’s a steep climb over uneven, stony terrain, and can get slippery. At the top, there’s a good chance you’ll be greeted by snow – and if the notorious fog doesn’t make an appearance, the views are sure to take your breath away.

4. Helvellyn, Lake District


It’s not always about the view from the top…many of the routes ascending Helvellyn mountain in the Lake District pass through fields and wind around beautiful lakes, providing hikers with plenty of picturesque pit-stops. The trail that spans Striding Edge is a favourite among the GP team even if it does involve some scrambling – take advantage of the lax wild camping rules and make a weekend of your hiking adventure.

5. Hadrian’s Wall Path


What is arguably Britain’s most famous Roman monument stretches some 84 miles across northern England, from east to west coast. Surrounding the wall is a diverse – and at times, desolate – landscape, punctuated by remnants of the past. You’re sure to spot milecastles, ramparts, forts and barracks en-route. This is a hike that deserves more than a day; rest your head (and legs) in one of the many thriving, market towns nearby.

Happy hiking with GP


Before you set off on your hiking trip, don’t forget to pack GP’s essentials. One of our beam torches is a must – perfect for early morning hikes or when the route takes a little longer than planned and it starts to get dark. We also recommend one of our sturdy PowerBanks, which will boost the battery life of your smartphone so you don’t have to worry about running out of power – especially handy if you’re using it for navigation, music and, of course, photos of your stunning surroundings.


Which hike are you planning to tackle first?

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