Hiking Blog – UK Walks, Trails & Adventures
Real walking adventures, tried-and-tested routes, practical hiking advice and inspiration for your next journey.
Exploring the Scottish Highlands as a Family: Lochs, Rivers & Adventures
From peaceful forest walks around Loch an Eilein to white-water tubing, river rafting and exploring the legendary Loch Ness, our family holiday in the Scottish Highlands had something for everyone. Returning to Aviemore almost ten years after my first visit, I discovered a whole new side of the Cairngorms, creating unforgettable memories with my family along the way.
The Three Peaks Challenge That Changed My Life: Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike & Snowdon
In July 2018, shortly after turning 50, I set out to complete the National Three Peaks Challenge. I conquered Ben Nevis, but my attempt ended on Scafell Pike. What followed was a journey of determination, giving up smoking, returning to the mountains and discovering a new ambition: Everest Base Camp.
Ben Macdui: A Solo Hike to Scotland's Second-Highest Mountain
A solo hike to the summit of Ben Macdui, Scotland's second-highest mountain. From glorious August sunshine to fierce winds on the exposed Cairngorm plateau, this 10-mile adventure was a reminder that mountain weather can change in an instant.
North Yorkshire Ultra Challenge: When the Heat Won
A spectacular coastal route, relentless heat and a challenge that didn't go quite to plan. My experience of the inaugural North Yorkshire Ultra Challenge 2026, walking from Scarborough along the Yorkshire coast, reconnecting with Everest Base Camp friends and learning when it's time to listen to your body.
32 Hours in Yorkshire: My 100km Challenge Before Everest Base Camp
103.56km. 32 hours. Torrential overnight rain, exhaustion, rising temperatures and one unforgettable Yorkshire adventure. What began as a 100km challenge with a friend became my toughest endurance test before heading to Everest Base Camp. Here's the story of what really happened.
Thor's Cave Walk – Exploring the Peak District's Dramatic Limestone Cavern
Discover Thor's Cave on a spectacular 4.67km circular walk from Wetton village in the Peak District. Explore the dramatic limestone cavern, enjoy breathtaking views across the Manifold Valley, and find practical advice on parking, routes and walking conditions.
The Roaches & Lud's Church Walk – Peak District
Discover two of the Peak District's most atmospheric walking destinations on this spectacular adventure through The Roaches and Lud's Church. From dramatic gritstone ridges and sweeping Staffordshire views to a mysterious, moss-covered woodland chasm, this walk offers an unforgettable combination of scenery, history and adventure.
Mam Tor & The Great Ridge Walk – Peak District
Explore Mam Tor and the Great Ridge on one of the Peak District's most spectacular circular walks. This 10.75km route offers breathtaking views, dramatic ridgelines and classic Peak District scenery, with practical walking tips, photographs and an OS Maps route to help you plan your adventure.
50 Common Hiking Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
From poor preparation and the wrong kit to navigation errors, bad weather and simply trying to do too much, these are 50 of the most common hiking mistakes — and how to avoid them. Plus, a few I’ve learned the hard way myself.
Why I Started Walking in Circles — And Why I Haven’t Stopped
Walking has always been more than exercise for me. It’s where I reset, where I challenge myself and where some of my strongest friendships have been built. This is the story of how that love of walking eventually became Walking in Circles — and why I still believe getting outside can change far more than you might expect.
The Google Search That Changed My Life
In January 2019, I did something incredibly ordinary.
I opened Google and typed three simple words:
"Hiking challenges UK."
I wasn't looking to climb mountains.
I wasn't planning to write a book.
I certainly wasn't imagining that, four years later, I'd be standing at Everest Base Camp, running my own hiking website, organising walking events, or calling many of the people I'd meet along the way some of my closest friends.
I was simply looking for a challenge.
Seven Sisters to Alfriston Loop
This 32 km / 20 mile circuit packs in the South Downs’ greatest hits: the dizzying cliffs of Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters, the serenity of the Cuckmere Valley, the historic heart of Alfriston, and the wildlife-rich heathland and woodland tracks on the return.
My name is Sean
Sean Rainey, otherwise known as ‘Walker Sean’, is an experienced ultra challenge walker, Trek Master (TM), and more recently a runner. Having battled with his mental health over many years, overcoming many personal obstacles, Sean has gone on to achieve a multitude of walking and running challenges, and supports a variety of charities that are close to his heart. This is Sean’s story.
The Ultimate Guide to Family Walks in the UK
Looking for the best family walks in the UK? Discover 40 unforgettable routes, from easy walks for younger children to longer adventures for families with teenagers.
Annapurna Circuit Trek
Planning the Annapurna Circuit Trek? This guide covers the route, itinerary, costs, accommodation, preparation and what to expect when crossing the 5,416m Thorong La Pass.
Best Hill Training and Hiking Routes Near London
Looking for hill training near London? Discover some of the best hills and hiking routes in the South of England for building fitness, strength and endurance for your next walking challenge.
A Guide to Canal Walks in the UK
Discover some of the best canal walks in the UK, from peaceful towpaths and historic waterways to scenic long-distance routes. Explore Britain on foot beside its canals.
Hiking in the UK During Winter: A Complete Guide
Discover everything you need to know about winter hiking in the UK, including the best routes, essential kit, safety tips and how to prepare for walking in colder conditions.
The North to South London Trail
Walk the North to South London Trail, a 34-mile (55 km) route from Cockfosters to Carshalton, linking footpaths, waterways, woodland and green spaces across the capital.
Thames Path Challenge
My experience of taking on the Thames Path Challenge, a 100 km ultra walking challenge along the River Thames from Putney to Henley-on-Thames — including the highs, lows and lessons learned.
Thank you for reading! Hope you are enjoying my blogs! If you’ve found them useful, I’d be really grateful if you’d consider using the following affiliate links for your hiking kit. I make a very small commission at no cost to you. This just helps to keep the cost of my blog running! Thank you for your support, Marc.
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