Several months ago we highlighted the 10 longest backpacking trails in the United States. Today we’re going to look at the three longest hiking trails in the United Kingdom.

Pennine Way

429km / 268 miles

From Derbyshire to the Scottish Borders, the trail runs through the UK and across the Pennine mountains crossing over Hadrian’s wall as it winds it’s way. The trail is best experienced between May and September, with a recommended northerly direction as it most often puts the wind at your back. The Pennine Way trail was the brainchild of Tom Stephenson, starting it’s creation with an article in 1935 in the Daily Herald before then petitioning Parliament for its creation. The trail was completed in 1965 when its last segment was opened.

Official Website
Wikipedia: Pennine Way

Southern Upland Way

341 km / 212 miles

Living fully within the boundaries of Scotland it runs from Portpatrick to Cockburnspath. This path opened in 1984 and traverses coast to coast of Scotland. Recommended to be trekked from April to June when the southern uplands are driest, though it is also possible to be enjoyed in the fall in September and October. The trail, aside from the treasures to be found on the Scottish lands, has its own new treasures with way-markers that say “Ultreia!” and give clues as to where to find kists with their own little treasures.

Official Website
Wikipedia: Southern Upland Way

South West Coast Path

1,014 km / 630 miles

Following the coast from Minehead to Poole, the United Kingdom’s longest walking trail traces the southwest outline of England’s land for over 600 miles. This path’s origins are as a route of patrol for the Coast Guard as they move from lighthouse to lighthouse watching for smugglers and ships in distress. The highest point on this trail is 1,043 feet (318m), so it is far from a mountain climbing trek but perfect for hikers or walkers looking for a unique experience in some of the world’s most scenic coastal vistas.

Official Website
Wikipedia: South West Coast Path

While not as big as the United States, the United Kingdom has a rich cultural history and breathtaking views across the nations and isles. These are just three of the longest trails and walking paths in the UK, there are many more trails and paths to explore should you find yourself in need of a trek.

Image taken from Wikipedia, licensed under Creative Commons