Jo Whitehead shares her top recommendations for dykes who hike and bi babes who ramble
BY JO WHITEHEAD
Feeling SAD about the short days and frosty weather? Fear not! We have a bunch of wintry walks to get your heart pumping and your cockles warm, from steady strolls to more strenuous hikes.
London
Despite being in the heart of London, the Woodberry Wetlands is a stunning nature reserve opened by the legendary Sir David Attenborough just last year. The centre is also a major hotspot for birds, so pack your binoculars. This walk is a flat route, taking between 30 minutes and an hour:
castle-climbing.co.uk/sites/default/files/files/Woodberry%20Wetlands%20Walk.pdf
Kent
The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic part of the UK landscape and a coastal walk along the undulating cliffs is an absolute delight. The route is a moderate, four-mile route, with some steep areas close to the cliffs. Breathe in the sea air and finish off with fish and chips:
Yorkshire
Having completed this walk earlier this year, I can testify to its beauty and stunning 360 degree views which stretch on for miles. Climbing Roseberry Topping is relatively steep, but we witnessed small children and dogs tackling the trail with aplomb, so don’t be put off. The route is a moderate, four-mile hike and a fantastic option for a clear day:
nationaltrust.org.uk/roseberry-topping/trails/roseberry-topping-from-great-ayton-station-walk
Somerset
Glastonbury Tor is quite literally the place of myths and legends, due to its connections with King Arthur and Avalon. The Tor is also meant to be significant in terms of the ley lands that are said to coincide in this auspicious spot. The trail is a an easy one and only 2.5 miles long. Get your chakras aligned in Glastonbury town centre afterwards:
walkingbritain.co.uk/walk-1212-description
Cornwall
Explore some of the UK’s most exquisite coastline by taking this spectacular circular walk around the Lizard peninsula in Cornwall. This is a moderate, seven-mile route, which is unquestionably enhanced with the addition of a Cornish cream tea upon completion.
iwalkcornwall.co.uk/walk/cadgwith_to_the_lizard
Devon
This five and a half mile challenging walk offers a fantastic mix of waterfalls, rivers and coastal views around Watersmeet in Exmoor National Park. In addition to birds and other wildlife, this walk also takes in the picturesque harbour town of Lynmouth, where you can rest your weary feet with a pint and a pub lunch:
nationaltrust.org.uk/watersmeet/trails/lynmouth-circular-via-watersmeet-and-countisbury
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