As British summertime approaches and the weather warms, you may find yourself craving a day in the great outdoors. Luckily, the North of England and Scotland offer a wealth of incredible hiking and rambling trails – many of which truly shine in spring.
With budding leaves, vibrant blossoms and cheerful daffodils, these walks are a feast for the senses. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the season with these spectacular spring walks in destinations along our network.
The Lake District is crisscrossed with mountain trails, but some of the best walks – especially in spring – lead to spots filled with flowers.
In the National Park, you’ll find several magical meadows that are perfect for springtime walks. Head to Rydal, just north of Ambleside, to explore the stunning gardens once tended by celebrated author William Wordsworth. Rydal Mount & Gardens, his former family home, bursts into colour during spring, offering a beautiful backdrop for a peaceful stroll.
Just a short distance away, Grasmere is home to the delightful Wordsworth Daffodil Garden, created in 2003 by the local community. It's said to feature over 10,000 daffodil bulbs, creating a truly enchanting scene.
Sea breezes, clifftop views and glimpses of the Ravenscar seal colony await you on a spring walk along the Cleveland Way in Yorkshire. Spanning 109 miles, this route starts in Helmsley and ends in Filey, taking you through vast stretches of coastline and the breathtaking wild heather meadows of the North York Moors National Park.
The best starting point is Scarborough, where the Cleveland Way runs directly through this charming Victorian seaside town. At the top end, North Bay serves as the main access point. From here, you can enjoy a long hike along the coast, immersing yourself in the sights, sounds and scents of the spring season.
Seeking a longer spring walk? Robin Hood’s Bay is an excellent destination. Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque countryside and enjoy spectacular views of the North Sea coast. Just before you reach Robin Hood’s Bay, stop at Ravenscar. From here, if you look down at the beach, you might glimpse the resident seal colony lounging on the rocky shoreline.
You don’t always have to head into the countryside to enjoy a memorable spring walk. If you’re planning a trip to York, the city’s ancient City Walls offer the perfect spot to experience the season in full bloom.
The historic walls walk is roughly two miles long and should take under an hour to complete (a little more if you decide to stop for a coffee somewhere!). Expect to see white, yellow and orange daffodils blooming along the banks of the walls from late February to the end of March.
You’ll also have a front-row seat to the city’s other spring delights. Keep your eyes peeled for the vibrant purple crocuses around York Minster, or the fragrant magnolia trees in the Merchant Adventurer’s Hall gardens – typically in full flower by April.
Edinburgh has no shortage of beautiful outdoor attractions, from the spectacular Royal Botanic Gardens to the impressive peak, Arthur’s Seat. Nevertheless, the Meadows – found just south of the Royal Mile – wins our vote for the city’s best spring walk.
The Meadows has been a public park for centuries, with locals and visitors still flocking to it today to stroll down its picturesque pathways or laze on the grass in the sunshine. Why not take a walk around this scenic spot in the spring to admire the rows upon rows of pink and white cherry blossom trees? Earlier in the season, you might also spot clusters of colourful crocuses and daffodils.
Durham is home to many delights, from its Gothic cathedral to a range of independent dining spots. But come spring, the charming River Wear becomes the place to be. Strolling along the riverfront not only offers breathtaking views of the city’s skyline but also gives you a chance to witness the signs of the changing season. Flowers bloom along the riverbanks, trees burst into bright green leaves, and the river’s bird populations thrive.
The Durham Riverside Walk is a three-mile circuit that takes you through several parts of the city, crossing over two of its charming bridges. You can complete it in under two hours, leaving you plenty of time to explore Durham’s historic attractions or enjoy a meal at one of its riverside restaurants.
Head to Dunbar in East Lothian, located in the south-east of Scotland, for a cliff-top walk filled with fascinating historical points of interest.
Start with a visit to the John Muir Birthplace Museum to learn about the adventurous naturalist. Then, take some time to discover Cromwell and Victoria Harbours and ‘The Battery,’ a defensive structure built in 1781. As you walk, you'll come across Dunbar Castle, famously defended by ‘Black Agnes’ during a siege in 1338, and the surrounding Castle Park, which also features an Iron Age fort.
Finally, end your walk at Belhaven Bay, where you can take in magnificent views of the Tyne Estuary and perhaps spot some local birdlife, like cormorants and eider ducks.
If you’re looking for a peaceful escape this spring, visit Malton and explore the Castle Howard gardens. With over 1,000 acres of stunning parkland, it’s a place where the season’s beauty shines through – no matter the weather.
Take a stroll through the woodlands, past ancient temples, tranquil lakes and elegant fountains, all while soaking in breathtaking views of the Howardian Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. In spring, the garden comes alive with colour, especially in Ray Wood, where rhododendrons and bluebells burst into bloom. And if you’ve got a furry friend with you, the gardens are dog-friendly – just be sure to keep them on a lead to protect the local wildlife.
The Northumberland Coast is full of hidden gems for nature lovers and adventurers. One spot to check out is Hauxley Nature Reserve, where you’ll find accessible trails, a new circular walk and six bird hides – ideal for spotting everything from tree sparrows to curlews.
Don’t miss the eco-friendly Wildlife Discovery Centre, a unique straw-bale building crafted by volunteers, where you can learn all about the area’s wildlife. If you’re visiting with the family, there’s a natural play area, a rubbing disc trail and seasonal events. Whether you’re birdwatching, hiking or simply soaking in the stunning views, there’s no shortage of ways to connect with nature along this beautiful coastline.
Immerse yourself in Glasgow’s largest country park, where the Pollock Country Park heritage trail invites you to explore the area’s rich history and diverse landscapes. This two-hour walk will guide you through fascinating points of interest, offering plenty of opportunities to learn about the park’s past while enjoying its scenery.
As you walk, you’ll pass intriguing landmarks, including Grade A-listed buildings that showcase the park’s historic architecture. Along the way, you’ll also discover tranquil woodlands, beautifully kept gardens that bloom with vibrant flowers throughout spring, and a peaceful library and parterre garden.
Whether you're there for a leisurely walk or to uncover a bit of history, Pollock Country Park is a perfect spot for a spring day of discovery and relaxation.
Tucked away in Kendal, within a sprawling 1,600-acre estate, lies the historic Sizergh Medieval House. A true hidden gem, the estate is a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and plant life, surrounded by a mix of wetlands, limestone pastures, woodlands and orchards.
Take in the beauty of the mirror lake, bright herbaceous borders, and the working kitchen garden – a real treat for the senses. After a serene walk through the grounds, unwind at the café or browse the second-hand bookshop.
For those wanting to dive deeper into the landscape, an accessible 1.5km circular trail guides you through ancient woodlands, traditional Westmorland orchards and a sprawling farm, offering a glimpse into the estate’s rich natural heritage.
With so many spring walks across our network, you will be spoilt for choice when deciding where to go! Book your train now to any of our destinations to avoid disappointment.
For more inspiration on walks along our network, check out five coastal walks or our guide to blooming flowers across the North.
Stay in the loop
Subscribe to our emails to get access to special offers, exclusive competitions, and the best travel tips directly to your inbox.
