Wonderful Christmas walks
Snowy tree tops, crunchy leaves, crisp fresh air… what better way to relax after the festive frolics than a tranquil country walk. Whether you’re taking a romantic wintry stroll or enjoying family time in the great outdoors, we’ve picked a selection of walks for you to try this Christmas.
Bedgebury Pinetum and Forest, Kent
If you visit Bedgebury Forest this Christmas, you’ll discover the UK’s National Pinetum. It’s one of the finest conifer collections in the world. With over 320 acres of walking trails to explore, it’s the perfect place for a magical stroll. The Pinetum has over 12,000 trees and shrubs, many of which are rare and endangered, and when covered with a blanket of snow covers, you’ll find yourself walking in a winter wonderland.
Learn more about the Pinetum and trails for you to try at http://bedgeburypinetum.org.uk/
Botallack Mine, West Cornwall
Perched on the clifftops of Cornwall are the ruins of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site. Why not wrap up warm and spend a winter’s day unearthing the area’s history? If you’re brave enough to brace the wintery weather and walk round the site, you’ll be rewarded with far-reaching views of the Atlanic Ocean and fascinating stories of the rich mining history.
You’ll also soon discover why BBC series ‘Poldark’, handpicked this impressive National Trust site as the shows backdrop.
Find out more about Botallack Mine here: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cape-cornwall/trails/botallack-walk
Fountains Abbey, North Yorkshire
Fountains Abbey is an area of great culture and natural beauty, so much so that it is a World Heritage Site and Grade I listed building. The area dates back to 1132 and has been wonderfully preserved for visitors to explore.
From the Cistercian Fountains Abbey ruins, to its surrounding 18th century gardens and canal, this striking landscape not only offers fantastic sights, the whole family will enjoy walking round the grounds during the festive season – you may even spot a wild deer in their thick winter coats!
Kew Gardens, London
Just a 30 minute drive outside London, Kew Gardens is the capital’s largest World Heritage site. It boasts a diverse collection of plants, including the Christmas holly!
As you gently stroll round the board walk borders, you’ll discover a beautiful landscape home to over 60,000 plants, an exotic rainforest, giant lily pads and 10 of the world’s climatic zones. A must-do when visiting Kew Gardens is the Treetop Walkway. 59ft (18m) high, this tree canopy offers a fantastic view of the gardens.
Just pick up a free Winter Walks leaflet on entry and away you go!
Brandelhow and Derwent Water, Lake District
If the weather isn’t too harsh, the Lake District is one of the top walking spots in Britain at this time of year. Striking scenery, snowy mountaintops and awe-inspiring views, many avid walkers travel to the recently named World Heritage site to experience the great outdoors.
A popular spot within the National Park’s 885 square miles is Brandelhow Park on Derwent Water. This quiet lakeside amble is perfect for all abilities and makes a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. You can wander the peaceful woodland and grass fields too, where you may spot a few deer, red squirrels or heron.
Find the trail here: https://keswick-launch.co.uk/explore/listing/brandelhow-park/