The Best Places for Cycling and Walking in the UK

Have you ever thought, as an international student, of going out and seeing the beautiful nature of Britain but at the same time being worried about how costly it might be? You are definitely not the only one with such a thought. The best places for walking and cycling in the UK are not only the great way of spending your study abroad time but also they are money-saving methods. After reading this article, you will be aware of the top trails, safety measures, and even how to plan your outdoor activities along with finding comfortable accommodation close to the nature.

Why the UK is Perfect for Cycling and Walking Enthusiasts

The United Kingdom is a heaven for nature lovers as it has more than 16,000 miles of routes for National Cycle Network and about 140,000 miles of public footpaths. However, the cycling and walking in the UK are more than just a lifestyle choice. They generate a significant portion of the UK economy - £3 billion a year - as per Sustrans. The country is investing in and encouraging eco-friendly ways of transit and recreation.

For students who take up accommodations such as West Wing Cardiff, trail exploring can be a cheap way to get rid of academic pressure and boost mental and physical health.

Best Places for Cycling in the UK

1. The Camel Trail, Cornwall

Following a closed railway line from Padstow to Wenford Bridge, this 18-mile journey is without any traffic. With its flat land and sea views, it is a perfect place for those who want to discover the best places for cycling in the UK but by doing so they don't want to be faced with technical challenges.

2. The Taff Trail, Wales

This 55 miles path from Cardiff to Brecon offers the best of both urban and rural cycling landscapes. Students living in student accommodation in Cardiff can get to the trail's southern end easily and thus, starting their weekend trips without any hustle.

3. The Great Glen Way, Scotland

The 79 miles long Fort William to Inverness track along Loch Ness is certainly a demanding one, but the breathtaking Highland views and the opportunity to visit the historical sites are what makes it a great rewarding journey for the cyclists.

4. The Downs Link, South East England

With a length of 37 miles, this trail that joins Surrey with West Sussex is a great way to experience woods and fields with slight inclinations and is, therefore, good for a relaxing day trip.

Best Places for Walking in the UK

1. Lake District National Park

With​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ the highest summit in England, Scafell Pike (978m), the Lake District has 2,292km² of hills, woods, and lakes. More than 15 million people travel to the area every year and it is mainly these visitors that are drawn by the footpaths which vary from simple lakeside walking to challenging mountain ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌hikes.

2. Snowdonia National Park, Wales

With​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ a size of 823mi2, Snowdonia is a location where there are hiking paths for any type of preference. Climbing Mount Snowdon will reward you with a breathtaking view (the peak is 3,560 feet above sea level), yet you may also stroll at the base of the mountain through the Aber Falls path that is open to people of any fitness ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌level.

3. Cotswold Way

The​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ 102 miles National Trail follows the Cotswolds' gently sloping hills, the honey-colored stone villages and the old-growth forests from Bath to Chipping Campden. Being close to major cities, it is a place where students, in search of student accommodation and wanting to make short weekend trips, find it ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌appealing.

4. South West Coast Path

It​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ covers a distance of 1,014 kilometers, thus it is the longest National Trail in the UK and follows the shore from Somerset to Dorset. Besides the famous cliffs, the hidden coves and the quaint fishing villages are the things that the walking here will stay with you ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌forever.

Essential Tips for Safe Cycling and Walking

Planning Your Route:

• You can save maps for offline viewing by using apps such as OS Maps or AllTrails

• Check the weather conditions through the Met Office site

• Let someone know your planned route and the time when you expect to be back

Safety Gear:

• To be more visible wear a high-visibility jacket and a cycle helmet

• Keep your mobile phone fully charged and bring along a portable charger

• Take water, some food and a simple first-aid kit with you

Respecting the Countryside:

• Observe the Countryside Code: leave gates as you find them, keep dogs under control, and take litter home

• Walk only on the roads that are of your concern so you do not harm the nature around

• Do not scare livestock and crops

Finding Accommodation Near Top Trails

Where you live is extremely important if you are thinking of doing regular outdoor activities. International students who are in search of student apartments in Cardiff, student housing in Cardiff, or student rooms in Cardiff should firstly think about how close they are to transport links and from where the trail starts.

People that require short-term student accommodation in Cardiff may opt for the likes of flexible student accommodation in Cardiff that would give them the chance of sampling different areas before they decide on one for a long-term stay. Living close to places where you can keep your bike and bus stops to go to the national parks will give you the maximum of comfort.

Benefits Beyond the Trail

Doing cycling and walking on a regular basis can seriously improve one's health condition. A study has been done and it proves that 150 minutes of moderate activity per week is able to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by 30%. What is more, these free activities are very attractive to the budget students as they provide them with the necessary relaxation, social opportunities through the clubs, and Insta-worthy moments that they will never forget.

Conclusion

The cycling and walking infrastructure in the UK is of a very high standard and therefore, it offers great opportunities to international students so that they can in an affordable way, explore different landscapes. Every place from the UK coast of Cornwall to the mountain trails of Scotland has something different and therefore, unique for the students. By simply choosing well-located accommodation and following safety rules, you will be able to keep your health and also make lots of unforgettable memories. Are you prepared to go on an exploration? Put on your hiking boots, take your bike and figure out why Britain is still one of the best destinations in the world for outdoor enthusiasts.