Walk along the gorge in Brunel’s Bristol
Start in the Christmas card-perfect village of Clifton, with its boutique shops and cafes, then head to the Observatory, where Brunel’s Suspension Bridge lies before you. Follow the contours of the gorge for steeper views and spot climbers, peregrine falcons and goats along the way. Continue to the sea wall and you will be rewarded with sunset views over distant Wales. Follow the winding road back over the wide and beautiful Downs, with the sunset behind you.
Helena
Pennines pastoral to Alston, Cumbria
Because the Lake District is so popular, Cumbria’s North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty to the east is a quieter alternative for walkers. Isaac’s Tea Trail connects Alston, one of England’s highest market towns, with beautiful Allendale. It meanders along the small River Nent; stone farmhouses that blend into the landscape, barn owls that skim walled meadows. A hundred steps down through the woods offer Nent Hall of Lovelady Shield warming brews, after which walkers can watch the water slide beneath the ice as the footpath passes waterfalls for the two miles to Alston.
Daaf
Heritage and coastal beauty, Cornwall
The South West Coast Path offers many great walks, but our local walking route runs from Trevaunance Cove, in St Agnes, along the headland towards Chapel Porth Beach. Passing the mining heritage of the area, you will have spectacular views of Godrevy Lighthouse and St Ives as you come over the edge of the cliff path and approach the ruins of Wheal Coates’ engine house. Once in Chapel you can stop for a ‘croque’ sandwich in the café before walking along the beach at low tide to the village of Porthtowan.
Kelly
Tips from Guardian Travel readers
Every week we ask our readers for recommendations from their travels. A selection of the tips are displayed online and may also appear in print. To enter the latest competition, visit the Reader Tips homepage
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Taking a wide walk, Norfolk
Whitlingham Broad is a lovely place to walk all year round, but especially in winter when the frost makes the reeds and trees shine and it is all reflected in the water of the wide river. There is a path around the wide, suitable for most walkers. The sights and sounds of the abundant waterfowl and other birds will add to your enjoyment of your walk. There is also a small cafe in a barn for a hot drink at the end.
Sarah Warren
History and Dogs, Stroud, Gloucestershire
Our favorite walk is across Rodborough Common on the hills above Stroud in Gloucestershire. It offers great views over the River Severn to Wales. In the valley below lies Woodchester, the site of a Roman governor’s villa. Buried there is what is believed to be the second largest Roman mosaic in Europe. Neither can be seen now, yet that history still haunts the walk. There is also the Dog Tree. Every year the locals decorate it with Christmas decorations. People add poignant messages about their deceased dogs. It brings tears to your eyes.
Andy Ferrari
Explore the Monk’s Moors, Northumberland
The eerie moors above Blanchland, including Monk’s Moor, are at their best in winter. The low sun casts long shadows across the icy heath, and the almost human call of grouse echoes. Head north from Blanchland and head south-west at Slaley Forest on the Carriers’ Way to experience the immediate tranquility from the cover of the pine trees. The silence is only interrupted by robins jumping from tree to tree and deer galloping between them. When the path meets the River Derwent, follow the valley back to Blanchland, where a pint awaits in front of the roaring fire at the Lord Crewe Arms.
Lauren Schilden
Crested tits and hoarfrost in the Cairngorms
The easiest route through the Caledonian pine forests towards An Lochan Uaine takes you past the pastures of the reindeer center on a well-surfaced footpath beneath the granite volume of Meall a’ Bhuachaille, with hoarfrost covering the vegetation. I find it hard not to be excited by the cheerful trill of the crested tits that make their home here. The green pool itself, sheltered on all sides, can be quiet despite the worst of winter weather. The return route offers good views of Loch Morlich, Cairngorm and the Chalamain Gap notch on the horizon.
Niall
Devon sent, for a sea view and a swim
When the cold sets in, my favorite winter warmer is a walk along the coast to Stoke Beach in south Devon. Starting in the picturesque village of Noss Mayo, the setting of a cozy drama starring Dawn French (The Trouble with Maggie Cole), you head up the hill where you’re greeted by sea views. If you hug the coast on the left, you will discover the mysterious 13th-century Church of St. Peter the Poor Fisherman. Seasoned and experienced swimmers may fancy a dip before returning along the path, finishing with a hearty lunch at The Ship Inn, back in the village.
Paula
Amazed by Armagh’s mountain mosaic
Climbing snow-capped Slieve Gullion, County Armagh’s mountain of mystery, means gaining a deeper understanding of the rugged, poetic landscapes from which Ireland’s rich mythology is hewn. Gullion rises from a patchwork of fens and swamps and is a mosaic of colors in winter; Crystalline rhyme contrasts with vibrant, kaleidoscopic purples and ochres of highland heather, ferns and gorse. Green forest paths and steep, winding mountain paths wind through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, past fairytale hills, cross-shaped passage tombs and centuries-old gravestone mounds. As you climb to the top you will see Lake Calliagh Berra where, according to legend, Finn McCool was enchanted by Miluchra and whose waters retain their enchanting appeal.
Conor Brady
Winning tip: a walk along the South Shields coast
The walk from Sunderland to South Shields is a delight. From St. Peter’s station you descend to the banks of the River Wear, past the National Glass Center and marina, and then to the coast. In a straight line to Shields you pass several lighthouses, sculptures and of course chip shops. The Marsden Grotto pub offers an ancient cliff top lift and views of the coast, with a wealth of bird activity and Tynemouth Priory and Castle to the north. This is very special in winter.
Tom Whelan