From Novice to Ben Nevis...The UK's Best Walks in 2018

There’s nothing quite like a good walk. Fresh air, natural beauty and a spot of exercise: the benefits of a walk on the wild side for our physical and mental well-being are huge!

Much like the hills, fells, pikes and mountains that stretch from Land’s End to John O’Groats! But whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced mountaineer, there’s a walk for you. So check out our pick of the best walks in the UK in 2018 - there's a whole new world to be explored!

Orrest Head

Where? Windemere, Lake District

How far? 4.3km (2.6 miles)

How long? Beginners should be able to complete this short circular trail within an hour; a bit longer if you want to stop along the way for a breather.

Fun fact: this was one of the very first hills climbed by famous fellwalker Alfred Wainwright, whose book ‘Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells’ is still one of the most used reference books for hikers today!

Difficulty rating: 1/5 – a leisurely, short walk that’s ideal for novices and people setting off on their first hiking adventure. Reward yourself with a hearty meal or refreshing drink in one of the many pubs or cafes in nearby Windermere.

B&M Top Tip: time can easily run away from you, so it’s worth taking a source of light in case it’s a bit dark on your way down. This Swiss Military Mini Camping Lantern is ideal: battery-operated and easy to carry!

Abergavenny Riverside

Where? Abergavenny, Monmouthshire, Wales (near the Brecon Beacons)

How far? 7km (4.5 miles)

How long? Within 2 hours

Fun fact: stop for a quick break at Abergavenny Castle, founded in the 11th century and demolished by King Charles I in the 17th century. It’s now home to a fascinating museum!

Difficulty rating: 3/5 – a moderate and pleasant walk along the banks of the river Usk. Abergavenny is known as the ‘Gateway to Wales’, and provides a good starting point for anyone wanting to explore the nearby Brecon Beacons National Park.

B&M Top Tip: it’s thirsty work climbing hills! Staying hydrated is vital, especially on hot, dry days, so make sure you have plenty of water. This Sistema Wave Water Bottle 600ml will do the trick. Or for coffee-addicts there’s the Morphy Richards Stainless Steel Flask 1.5L!

Ben Nevis (Mountain Track)

Where? Western end of the Grampian Mountains, in the Lochaber area of the Scottish Highlands, near Fort William

How far? 9km (5.5 miles)

How long? Anyone with a reasonable-to-good level of fitness should be able to complete the Mountain Track within 5-6 hours.

Fun fact: there’s an annual race every year called the Ben Nevis Race. The current record stands at a lightning quick 1 hour 25 minutes! Do you think you could beat it?

Difficulty rating: 5/5 – you need to be an experienced hiker of many years to take on Britain’s highest peak! Don’t attempt unless you are in ‘peak’ physical condition or are accompanied by an expert.

B&M Top Tip: planning on stopping for lunch? Of course you are! Relax on this Tartan Picnic Rug, which conveniently folds away and features a carry handle.

Have you got any grand plans for a day or weekend walking? Tell us which hill you’ve been hiking up and share your tips on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram!