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The Lake District, which spans from just north of Manchester to almost the border with Scotland in Cumbria is a protected area of stunning beauty. And a very popular walking destination as tourism now provides most of the income for the region. The Old Man of Coniston walk may not be the highest peak in the Lake District but it is certainly breathtaking both in terms of beauty and cardiac challenge. The walk is an uphill hike most of the way but you are rewarded with stunning views across the Lakes and at the top of the mountain there are amazing all round views of the lake of Coniston Water. The descent is a much simpler affair and welcome respite having achieved this more challenging and adventurous hike. It can get cold, wet and windy in the Lake District especially between October and April so do make sure to equip yourself wisely with sensible hiking gear and waterproof jackets and trousers.
The Peak District is another most charming area that run more through the middle of the country- from the South of Manchester down to Derby which is regarded by many as bordering on entering the South of England. There are many wonderful walks of varying levels of difficulty in this pretty national park with lovely streams, rivers and waterfalls careering through hills and valleys. The roaches, just south of the spa town of Buxton is a rocky outcrop in the hills that has been carved out by wind erosion. Buzzards and wallabies are said to roam this beauty spot and along the walking route there are various caverns and caves to delight and perhaps fright. This walk is however not too challenging fitness and strength wise so is a family friendly route with gentle slopes and very manageable paths.
Aside from these two more famous national parks in the north of England there are other also well known and well appreciated walking destinations. The Yorkshire Dales is one of these popular areas, rich in history, its own characteristic culture and cuisine. There is a walk at Ilkley Moor in West Yorkshire just north of Leeds and on the surrounding the lovely little market town of Ilkley with its smoky Yorkshire stone houses and quaint little shops. The Riverside circuit has pre-historic carvings in caves along its exciting route up on the moody moors. Again wet, misty and windy weather can be expected so be sure to be correctly dressed for the occasion, even if the day starts out clear, bright and sunny. This walk is also in the heart of Bronte country so there is a lot of history and drama to the area.
Finally one cannot consider beautiful walks in the north of England without including Hadrian's Wall. The oldest and longest wall in England, this was built by the Romans and has acted as a border between England and Scotland over the years. Running across the breadth of the northern most parts of England, from Newcastle upon Tyne on the east coast to Carlisle in the west there is a walking route spanning this width of the country and of course you can just dip in and cover shorter areas of the walking route too. Ghosts stories are common on this ancient route so do be aware and prepared. Rugged hills and moody moorland are also abound and there is a preserved roman fort en route also, making this a hike of great nature and history interest.
The north of England is home to some stunning hiking routes with friendly eating, drinking and sleeping stops to be found. Do take care to look up any up to date information online about the route you are intending to take and it is essential to be set up with appropriate hiking gear such as boots, fleeces, waterproof jackets [http://www.whitesoutdoors.co.uk/categories/Mens-Outdoor-Clothing/Mens-Waterproof-Jackets/] and trousers to really be able to enjoy this rugged and wild wonderland.
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