Top winter walks – the UK beauty spots perfect for keen wanderers
Grab your boots and your warmest gloves and head out on a countryside adventure
THE winter months aren't all about hunkering down, with plenty of adventure to be had outdoors.
Ancient woodlands, parklands, dramatic coastlines and stunning beauty spots litter the UK - and are well worth a visit.
The Giant's Causeway, the Cairngorms, Cumbria and Kent all have treasures to share - as do pub walks and historic strolls too. And whatever your preference, planning and preparation will maximise your experience.
Watching wildlife
Ready for nature to wow you? Here are our picks for getting closer to nature, observing animals in their natural habitats.
Cairngorms National Park, Scotland
One of the biggest national parks in the British Isles, Cairngorms has a lot to offer the nature-lover.
Follow one of the many walking trails and you could see golden eagles, mountain hares and even wildcats if you’re lucky.
Find out more, and get advice on planning you trip from the .
Borthwood Copse, Isle of Wight
A small but perfectly formed walk, is in a secluded and peaceful part of the Isle.
As well as observing the leaf litter, you might be able to spot a red squirrel or two as they come down from the tree canopies to forage.
Accessible for all
No one wants to miss out on the family fun - these are the destinations most suitable for pushchairs and mobility aids.
Baggy Point, North Devon
You can find stunning coastline on the west side of Baggy Point.
And an easy access walk is two miles long and takes on average an hour to complete.
Perfect if you're not planning to be out for the whole day.
Knole Deer Park, Kent
Popular with cyclists, runners and walkers alike, you can explore over 1,000 acres of parkland.
An easy way to enjoy Knole deer park is via one of the walking trails.
Trails are marked for different lengths and abilities, and include wheelchair and pushchair friendly tracks.
Find out more from the .
Cosy pub walks
Enjoy a crisp country walk, when ending with refuelling and refreshments.
Explore the outdoors and then cosy up somewhere warm near one of options below.
Thames Walk, London
starts in the Cotswold hills and runs alongside the river until it reaches the sea.
For the city end, enjoy a few miles through Southwark taking in sights like Tower Bridge and Shakespeare’s Globe.
The George Inn - the only remaining galleried coaching inn in London - is nearby.
Great Langdale, Cumbria
Nestled in the heart of the Lake District is the valley of Great Langdale.
Start or finish your walk through the Langdale Pikes at the homely Sticklebarn Tavern.
This National Trust owned pub offers great food and activities like live music, while there's also a campsite nearby if you fancy extending your stay in Great Langdale.
Find out more about planning your exploration .
Historic walks
For the history buffs, treat yourself to these scenic walks with breath-taking buildings.
Castell Coch and Forest Ffawr, South Wales
Sitting just a few miles north of the Welsh capital is a , nestled in the side of magnificent mountains.
Explore the surrounding Forest Ffawr with walking and cycling paths, sculpture trails.
Then rest-up and recuperate in one of the nearby tea rooms.
Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland
Iconic and the only World Heritage site in Northern Ireland, the is a must-see for lovers of myths and legends.
Take in the extraordinary views and learn more about the Causeway at the visitor centre.
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Save money when heading outdoors with The Sun Vouchers: find National Trust offers, as well as discounts on outdoor clothing from the likes of Blacks, Berghaus and Sports Direct