The best UK trails & coastal walks
Top walks near Parkdean Resorts
Discover the best coastal walks across the UK
There’s something magical about pulling on your walking boots, stepping outside your holiday home and feeling the day open up in front of you. The UK’s coastlines and countryside are stitched together with paths that lead to big skies, salty air and those 'just one more mile' moments. From clifftop wanders to woodland rambles, here’s our pick of the best coastal walks UK travellers love - all within easy reach of Parkdean Resorts.
Why walking holidays are popular
Wellness benefits & nature
A good walk does more than get your legs moving. It clears your head, slows your breathing and lets nature do its thing. Think seabirds wheeling overhead, waves fizzing against the rocks and that quiet pride when you look back and see how far you’ve made it. These are the simple, grounding moments people crave - and they’re right on the doorstep when you holiday with us.
Access with Parkdean Resorts
One of the joys of staying at Parkdean Resorts is how easy it is to get out for a walk. Many of our holiday parks sit close to national trails, coastal paths and local loops, so you can head out after breakfast and be back in time for a late lunch. Whether you’re browsing holiday parks in England, Scotland or Wales, great walks are never far away.
Best trails by region
Scotland
Scotland is built for walkers. Coastal paths curve around lochs and headlands, while inland trails cut through forests and glens. Near Nairn Lochloy, you’ll find the Moray Coast Trail, while Southerness is brilliant for bracing sea air on the Solway Firth. Plus, trails at Galloway Forest Park are just an hour’s drive away.
North England
The north delivers drama in spades. Think rugged cliffs, wide beaches and routes that dip between fishing villages. Holiday parks like Sandy Bay and Whitley Bay promise proximity to the top of the Northumberland Coast Path, while Ocean Edge lives up to its name with the Heysham Coast Trail and breathtaking views of Morecambe Bay. These are coastal walks UK-style, giving you space to breathe and plenty of photo opportunities.
South England
Down south, the paths soften, but the views don’t. Torquay is a highlight of the South West Coast Path, one of the best coastal walks the UK has to offer, that winds past coves, surf beaches and pastel harbours. West Bay is a stone’s throw from the world-famous Jurassic Coast, and St Margaret’s Bay is the perfect place to take in the White Cliffs of Dover. Near our holiday parks, you can choose gentle clifftop strolls or longer hikes that earn you a pub lunch at the end. Sun on your face, sea on your left - it’s hard to beat.
Wales
Wales packs a lot into every mile. The Wales Coast Path wraps around the entire country, winding around picturesque headlands, hidden bays and everything in between. Carmarthen Bay is a gem along the path, a short drive from Pembrey Country Park, where families can enjoy beaches, forests and even a ski slope. Pendine Sands offers a more relaxed vibe, with plenty of chances for walking and basking in the sun. Near Parkdean Resorts, walks often mix coast and countryside, with sheep-dotted fields one minute and crashing waves the next. It’s walking with character - and plenty of heart.
Family & dog-friendly walks
Walking holidays work best when everyone’s invited. Many trails near Parkdean's holiday parks are pushchair-friendly, short enough for little legs, or dotted with beaches perfect for a paddle. Travelling with four-legged family members? We’ve got you covered with our dog-friendly holidays and routes where muddy paws are part of the fun. For bigger crews, our family holidays are built for days where kids get sandy, boots get muddy and nobody minds.
Safety tips around the coast
Coastal walking is exhilarating, but it pays to keep it real. Follow these tips for staying safe:
- Check tide times before you set off and stick to marked paths.
- Stock up on snacks and water, especially for kids and pets.
- Give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the walk and get back safely.
- Pack layers and be ready for the weather to turn.
- If a route feels a bit much today, save it for tomorrow - it’s not going anywhere!
Activities and parks near these trails
Walking might be the headline act, but it’s not the whole show. Many routes pass close to attractions, cafes and viewpoints worth a detour. Explore nearby towns, heritage spots and family days out with our guide to local attractions, or find inspiration for your next coastal adventure from our guide to the best beaches in the UK. However you walk it, Parkdean Resorts puts you right where the good stuff starts.
FAQs
Are any of the walking trails dog-friendly?
Yes - many coastal and countryside trails welcome dogs, especially outside peak seasons. With plenty of sniff-worthy paths and space to roam, it’s easy to bring your four-legged friend along for the adventure. Just keep an eye out for local signage and wildlife zones and follow rules around keeping dogs on the lead.
Are the trails suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. You can find a mix of trails, including gentle routes ideal for little legs, with plenty of places to stop and have fun. Beaches, rock pools and viewpoints are half the fun, so stop for a break and set up camp with little ones.
Are the trails clearly signposted?
Most popular coastal and national trails are well signposted, making them easy to follow even if you’re new to the area. It’s always worth checking a local map or visitor board before you set off, just to be on the safe side.
Are there guided walks available near Parkdean Resorts?
In many locations, yes. Local walking groups, park rangers and visitor centres often run guided walks, especially during peak seasons. They’re a great way to learn more about the landscape - and let someone else lead the way.
Are there trails accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs?
Some routes are designed with pushchairs and wheelchairs in mind, including promenade walks, coastal paths and nature trails with smooth, level surfaces. Availability varies by location, so checking locally will help you find the best fit for your group.
The good news is, the South East coast isn’t the only British rainbow hotspot, as Llandudno North and Rhyl Beach in Wales take seventh and ninth place, but fear not Northerners, Bridlington comes in at eighth place.