The UK’s rolling hills come into their own during the summer months, offering verdant vistas, mild weather and national parks that look like they were curated by Capability Brown. It’s no surprise, then, that summer marks the peak in hiking season, with thousands of experienced climbers and seasoned walkers taking to the hills (or paths, or trails) to make the most of the UK’s beauty in all its glory – and this weekend the Princess of Wales was among them. On 28 June 2026, the Princess became the first royal to finish the Three Peaks Challenge, in which participants must climb the UK’s three highest peaks, Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon, in 24 hours. Kate undertook the challenge alone as part of fundraising efforts for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity and in response to her own recent treatment for cancer. 

Looking to follow in her footsteps? We’ve rounded up an array of exceptional hiking destinations across the country, ranging from the Cairngorms to Cornwall, to inspire your next staycation. Plus, discover the chicest places to stay en route – because there’s nothing like a little luxury to make your adventure better. 

South West Coast Path, Cornwall

As one of the longest trails in the world, spanning Exmoor National Park in North Devon to Poole in Dorset, the South West Coast Path boasts 630 miles of natural beauty on the UK’s southernmost peninsula. Offering the ultimate challenge for a long-distance hiker, there’s more than 115,000 feet of ascent and descent on the path, which equates to climbing Snowdon 48 times, Ben Nevis 26 times or Everest four times. Many make it a life-long ambition to complete it, a feat achieved by splitting it up into seven sections which are all signposted with an acorn. One of our favourite sections is in South Cornwall, stretching from Falmouth to Cremyll and dotted with sights such as St Austell Bay, Par Sands, Fowey and, across the river, Polruan, Looe, before reaching Cornwall’s ‘forgotten corner’: Rame Head. 

Where to stay: Fowey Hall

After a multi-million pound refurbishment in 2020 which reimagined this Victorian mansion into a five-star stay, Fowey Hall is an easy choice for a luxe pitstop along the South West Coast Path. All of its 60 rooms overlook Fowey Estuary, while a palette of natural, earthy materials is perfectly complemented by warm accents of brass and burnt orange upholstery. Everything has been thought of here, with families of all ages and sizes able to make the most of two hours of complimentary childcare per night’s stay at the on-site Ofsted-registered Four Bears Den, and the dining room being split into sections that are family friendly and adults-only. The best bit for hikers? The gorgeous outdoor pool and horsebox-style sauna with sea views. 

From £285 per night.

Southern Fells, Lake District

Made famous by Alfred Wainwright’s 1952 Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells, Southern Fells is a slice of the Cumbrian mountains and Lake District National Park which is best known for being home to the highest peak in England: Scafell Pike. This challenging hike is best reserved for experienced walkers, involving relentless rugged climbs and steep rocky paths which take you to an elevation of approximately 978 metres above sea level. While it’s a huge draw for ‘peak baggers’, those who aren’t up for the challenge have plenty of other hikes to choose from. Tarn Hows Circular is an accessible walk clocking in at just under two miles and, as the name suggests, is a loop from the Tarn Hows car park in Coniston. While it may be an easy stroll on a flat, man-made path, it doesn’t sacrifice views, with stunning backdrops of the Langdale Pikes and Coniston Fells throughout. For more experienced hikers, this part of the fells includes iconic routes such as the the Old Man of Coniston and the strenuous nine-mile Great End. 

Where to stay: Gilpin Hotel and Lake House

Ideally located in the heart of the Lake District National Park, just 40 minutes from Coniston – which acts as a gateway to many hiking routes and is famous for its five-mile-long lake – Gilpin Hotel and Lake House is a Relais and Châteaux property owned and run by husband and wife hoteliers, Barney and Zoë Cunliffe. The five-star property combines two hotels on separate estates, with 30 rooms and suites at the main hotel, including 10 spa lodges, each with a private hot tub, sauna, steam room and spa. A mile away, the six-bedroom Lake House is nestled in 100 acres and has a private lake, swimming pool, sauna and outdoor hot tubs. The perfect place for avid walkers to unwind and indulge, enjoy the Spa Space and book the special Lake District walking massage, before dining at the two restaurants; Michelin-starred Source, helmed by head chef Ollie Bridgwater, and the funky pan-Asian Gilpin Spice.

From £430 per night. 

Cairngorms National Park, Scotland

Cairngorms National Park was a favoured walking spot of the late Queen Elizabeth II who, with her entourage of corgis, would often stretch her legs on the easy strolls that doorstepped her beloved Balmoral Estate. In fact, one of the best walks to do in the park is the six-kilometre Prince Albert's Pyramid Walk, which features the park’s largest cairn, erected by Queen Victoria in memory of her husband, Prince Albert, following his death. Given this is the largest national park in the UK, there are plenty of both challenging and easy hikes to choose from, ranging from the dramatic Sgòr Gaoith (meaning ‘windy peak’ in Scottish Gaelic) to peaceful woodland circuits around the ethereal Loch Garten. 

Where to stay: Pine Trees Hotel

Tucked away in 10 acres of serene woodland on the edge of charming Pitlochry, on the doorstep of the Cairngorms in the Scottish Highlands, Pine Trees Hotel offers a warm and soulful retreat. Following a multi-million-pound refurbishment by Monogram Collective, the boutique property blends Victorian charm with contemporary design across its 32 individually styled rooms and suites. The hotel spans four buildings with interiors curated to reflect the surrounding landscape , inviting guests to embrace the art of coorie – Scotland’s cosy, mindful way of living. Dining is a highlight, with seasonal menus by executive head chef Tom Scade at Fauna Restaurant, while the elegant Flora bar offers an extensive whisky and wine selection, alongside signature serves such as the Pine Trees Margarita. Launching in September, the hotel’s Woodland Wellness experience will introduce an immersive outdoor spa concept complete with sauna, plunge pool and wood-fired hot tub. 

From £358 per night. 

Castleton, Mam Tor and the Great Ridge Walk, Peak District

Famous for being one of the best ridge walks in the country, this accessible walk from Castleton spans six and a half miles through some of the most beautiful parts of the Peak District. Along the route, hikers enjoy vistas over Edale, Hope Valley and even the edge of Kinder Scout, while reaching the summit of Mam Tor: one of the area’s most famous peaks, which also goes by the nickname ‘Shivering Mountain’. It then loops to the top of Back Tor and onto Lose Hill Pike, before descending into the quaint villages of Castleton and Hope. This a scenic and relatively easy route, but those looking to push themselves are spoiled for choice with the five-kilometre Dovedale, Stanage Edge in the Derwent Valley, and the Roaches: a mountain peak in Leek that is steeped in local folklore. 

Where to stay: The Cavendish Hotel

A public house since the 1700s and a hotel since 1830, The Cavendish is located in the pretty village of Baslow and is just moments from Chatsworth House – the grand stately home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire. Ensconced by historic parkland and the rolling landscapes of Derbyshire, rest assured that the inside of the hotel is just as pretty as the outside, having been designed by interior guru Nicola Harding and fashion consultant Lady Laura Burlington (the Devonshires’ daughter-in-law). The 28 characterful bedrooms, including two suites, feature countryside views across the estate, alongside antique furniture, stone fireplaces and playful lamps. Elsewhere, the hotel’s two restaurants – the Garden Room and the Gallery – celebrate the Peak District’s best-known producers, with the majority sourced from local gardeners and farmers. 

From £260 per night.

Snowdonia National Park, Wales

Also known as Eryri National Park, Snowdonia is the largest national park in Wales, spanning 823 square miles and home to 26,000 people. Around 600,000-700,000 people hike Snowdon each year – the park’s most famous peak and the highest in Wales – making this the busiest hike in the UK, but for those looking to escape the crowds and opt for something easier, there are plenty of shorter walks to enjoy. Among them is the seven-kilometre Aber Falls loop, which features a pitstop at one of the most dramatic waterfalls in Snowdonia, as well as Llyn Padarn, a circular route following lakeside paths that weave through forests and the village of Llanberis.  

Where to stay: Palé Hall Hotel

Roughly 30 minutes from Snowdonia National Park, Palé Hall is the perfect choice for well-heeled hikers. Boasting Relais and Châteaux accreditation, as well as a Michelin green star, Palé Hall is a grand Victorian country mansion in the Dee Valley steeped in old-world charm. Its 22 rooms – some named after historic castles, and others nestled in the garden grounds – are exceptionally lavish, featuring majestic mahogany furniture, rich fabrics and antique accents. Helmed by chef Luke Selby, the two restaurants are a real talking point. Head to the opulent Henry Robertson Dining Room – recipient of the aforementioned star – for a Welsh spin on classic fine dining, or saunter to the 300-year-old  Bryntirion Inn for a quintessential pub experience. 

From £320 per night.

Read more: Why Scotland is the coolest place to visit this summer