The British weather may be doing its best to be drizzly and miserable, but as we start edging towards spring, the sunshine is starting to make occasional appearances. 

For those who like to make the most of the outdoors whether on a leisurely stroll or challenging hike, the UK is hardly short of beautiful places to explore. However, there’s one particular route that’s just been crowned Britain’s most beautiful walk, not to mention it can be completed in less than two hours, and is right on the edge of a charming city. 

Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh has long been a firm favourite with both tourists and locals, so it’s not surprising that it’s been tipped to be the must-visit spot for 2026 after outdoor experts at Millets analysed Tripadvisor data including the number of times popular routes were described as “beautiful”, “pretty” or “picturesque”. 

The team behind the research explained: “Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh has been crowned Britain’s most beautiful walk, with 1,394 reviews praising its beauty. Located around a mile from the city centre, the hike to the summit is relatively easy and rewards walkers with sweeping views over the capital and the surrounding Scottish landscape. For the best experience, plan your visit at sunrise or sunset, when the city lights and surrounding hills glow.” 

Those who take on the short climb to the top of this extinct volcano will be treated to some glorious, uninterrupted views of Edinburgh. There are some steep sections, but the route still remains fairly easy; plenty of families can be seen at the top. You’ll want some sturdy boots and waterproof jackets (this is the UK after all), but you don’t need to load up with plenty of hiking gear and snacks, given the average visitor can complete the climb and back in less than two hours. 

Back on the ground, Edinburgh itself is a very walkable city, with plenty of the landmarks from Edinburgh Castle to the Royal Mile all within just a few steps of each other. (The Royal Mile actually leads up to the castle, and it’s here that you’ll find plenty of independent shops, pubs and cafés to enjoy). There are plenty of Edinburgh walking tours to be enjoyed too, whether you want to learn about the history and best views, take a foodie tour, or head underground and discover the city’s infamous network of tunnels where crime used to thrive. 

There’s plenty of affordable accommodation on offer too if you’re thinking of a city break. If you’re after cheap hotels, then Lastminute.com has stays from £45 a night, while Premier Inn also has a number of hotels around the Scottish capital. Meanwhile for holiday homes, Sykes Holiday Cottages and Holidaycottages.co.uk can be useful sources that cater to a wide array of budgets. 

UK’s top 10 prettiest walks for spring 

1. Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh
2. Giant’s Causeway, County Antrim
3. Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol
4. Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, Yorkshire Dales
5. The Lizard, Cornwall
6. Bradgate Park, Leicestershire
7. Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye
8. Rhossili Bay, Gower Peninsula
9. Dovedale, Peak District
10. The Needles, Isle of Wight

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