Winter Walks With The YHA

In the depths of winter, it can be tempting to hibernate and hold out for spring - but why miss out on the spectacular scenery the UK's landscapes have to offer? Our partners YHA have beautiful properties across England and Wales, up mountains, on clifftops and among coastal tracks, to provide the perfect base for exploring the UK's most dramatic scenery. To get you inspired, YHA have chosen their top five destinations for a winter walk.

An easier alternative to wild Snowdonia at this time of year, but no less beautiful. Waterfall country is one of the most awe-inspiring place to be at any time of year, with thundering torrents spilling from high above in the steep, tree-lined gorges of the Forest Fawr Geopark. There are many routes to choose from with a good path network, and almost all of the higher ground is open access countryside.

Explore the walking trails in waterfall country

Where to stay: YHA Brecon Beacons 

This cosy 19th-century farmhouse is set in a tranquil position in 15 acres of ancient woodland, overlooking the River Tarell. Step outside to breathtaking views towards Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales. Following a recent renovation project, the 41-bed YHA Brecon Beacons hostel is now brighter, airier and more inviting than ever before. It features a cosy lounge with plenty of sofas, arm chairs and a wood burning stove. Simply put, it’s the perfect place to rest and recuperate after a day out among the wild waterfalls of Wales.

This accessible 1.8 mile circular route takes you around the three mountain pools of Tarn Hows. This is one of Lakeland’s most popular spots, so we recommend visiting in winter to avoid the crowds. Moreover, when the water freezes and the surrounding hills are dusted with snow, it’s a sight to set spirits soaring. Simply drive up, park up, and enjoy a stroll that offers the most magnificent views of the Lake District’s mountains.

Discover the Tarn Hows route

Where to stay: YHA Ambleside

This flagship hostel in the heart of the Lake District sits right on the shores of Lake Windermere. It offers doorstep access to wonderful walks and as many water sports as you could wish for, plus, the charming village of Ambleside itself is just a short stroll away. Following a £1.4 million renovation, YHA Ambleside boasts top-notch facilities, a decked waterfront terrace, a licensed restaurant and a Trip Advisor 2015 Certificate of Excellence. For those that haven’t been hostelling for a while, this place will amaze and then convert you.

England’s most famous and well-documented witch trials took place in Lancashire in 1612. This long distance, 48 mile route links the slopes of Pendle Hill, home to the two families of sorcerers, to the place of their imprisonment, Lancaster Castle, and the site of their eventual execution, the village of Golgotha. The walk is a beautiful one with the Forests of Pendle and Bowland enchanting ramblers along the way.

Have a look at the Pendle Witches Way

Where to stay: YHA Arnside

Located a train ride away from Lancaster Castle, with access to the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District National Parks, the affordable YHA Arnside can be found just above Morecombe bay and boasts 69 beds in an Edwardian house.

Bookended by YHA hostels, this challenging linear route crosses one of England’s finest wildernesses. Less tourist-friendly than the South Moor, Dartmoor’s North Moor can appear formidable but, with its distinctive granite tors and wild forests, it is also utterly beguiling. Plus there’s a comfortable bed at the beginning and end. You won’t cross a road until you get to Postbridge (under 2 miles from your destination) and this route passes both High Willhays and Yes Tor, the two highest points in England south of Kinder Scout. To add additional complexity and interest, ascend High Willhays from Okehampton and then progress southeast via Cranmere Pool, the location of the first Dartmoor letterbox – a real navigation challenge in the mists of a Dartmoor winter.

Explore the North Moor Crossing

Where to stay: YHA Okehampton or YHA Dartmoor

Converted from a Victorian railway goods shed into a modern hostel with its own grounds, YHA Okehampton is also a licensed activity centre offering over 20 different outdoor pursuits from pony trekking to gorge scrambling. With its railway station location, it’s the ideal jump off point for a number of long-distance walks, including the West Devon Way (to Plymouth), Two Castles Trail (to Launceston), Tarka Trail (to North Devon) and the Devonshire Heartland Way (to the Exe Valley).

YHA Dartmoor is also well-connected, with access to a network of off-road routes for walking and cycling holidays. Nestled beside Bellever Forest and surrounded by open moorland, this rural retreat provides a charming and comfortable place to relax (especially with a local ale) after a day of adventures. Take some time to wander the grounds and you may encounter our famous Dartmoor pony neighbours.

Locally famous and an absolute must-do if you’re able, the Edale Skyline is a high-level circuit around the entire valley. The terrain is a real mixed bag that includes rocky footpaths, grassy tracks, flagged sections, peat bogs and heather trods so if you’re going in winter, go prepared! Access to this epic route couldn’t be easier: simply walk uphill from the hostel. The circuit takes in Win Hill, Lose Hill, Mam Tor and the whole of the southern flank of Kinder Scout. If your navigations skills could use a little work, join one of YHA Edale’s qualified instructors on a weekend walking course and tackle this titan together.

Explore the Edale Skyline

Where to stay: YHA Edale

With its adjoining activity centre, fantastic facilities, knowledgeable staff and proximity to peerless natural wonders, YHA Edale is perfectly positioned for incredible adventures in the great outdoors. This grand old country house is situated on the southern flanks of Kinder Scout and is one of the highest residences in the Peak District.