Child-friendly Walks in the UK

Child-friendly Walks in the UK

The summer is on its way and so too, hopefully, is the sunshine! When the temperatures rise and the weather warms, there is sometimes nothing better than to hit the open road and breathe in the fresh air of the countryside. The UK is blessed with some beautiful walkways taking in stunning scenery as you amble towards serenity. However, sometimes, with the kids in tow, this can prove a little bit boring for your active little cherubs. That’s why, to mark national walking month in May, we have teamed up with Babythingz who sell Cosytoes, to present a host of the best child-friendly walks in the UK.

• The Lake District — Around Kendal Castle

It’s well known that the Lake District boasts some of our shore’s finest scenery. However, not all of the routes are child friendly. One that is, though, is the trail trek around Kendal Castle. While there are some steps on the two-mile stretch, this is suitable for a pushchair. Not your usual country walk, you’ll come across those exercising, skateboarding, gardening and some simply walking to and from work. While it’s slightly busy at times, you’ll be wowed by the brilliant castle views and there’s a children’s play area near the start of the walk to give the younger ones an area to unwind too!

• North Tyneside — North Shields Fish Quay to Tynemouth

The North East has some great walkways to take advantage of. As well as the idyllic Northumberland, somewhere which often makes these type of lists, North Tyneside’s coastal routes are great for a stroll with a buggy or pushchair. The walk from North Shields Fish Quay to Tynemouth is predominantly flat, making it perfect for a gentle stroll on a warm summer’s day. It’s rich in history with options such as the Robert Westall walk taking in the sights and sounds of his much-loved novels. Venture slightly further from Tynemouth and you’ll reach the Blue Reef Aquarium — a great day out for all ages!

• Inverness — Ness Islands Walk

In the centre of Inverness lies this popular oasis of calm. Set in the River Ness, this circular walk sees you take on a flat three-mile route which will take about an hour — unless you choose to cut it short and cut across on of the bridges. With plenty area in Whin Park to set up a picnic spot, there is also a playground, miniature railway, boating pond and coffee and ice cream shop. If you hit on lucky, you might even spot some seals between the bridges.

• Argyll – Gruffalo Trail

Which kid doesn’t love the Gruffalo? Well, at Ardkinglas House in Argyll you can head on a Gruffalo Trail to find the Gruffalo before heading to the Treeshop garden centre and gift shop. The Woodland Garden in which it is set is situated on part of a 12,000-acre estate which boasts one of Britain’s largest trees.

• Gloucester — Selsley Common Walk

The views from the top of the Cotswold hills are spectacular! Why not let your little ones take in the beauty too with this 1.4km jaunt? A trip in the early summer months will see you surrounded by skylarks and wild orchids as you reach over to Wales. This walk, which is easily completed in under an hour as perfect for a time filler if you’re in the vicinity. If you do wish to continue your trek, there are lots of options to extend your walk. It’s ideal for toddlers or babies in a carrier. However, although most of the walk is suitable for all-terrain pushchairs, there are a couple of narrow and bumpy roads that must be avoided. Don’t let that deter you, though, as you can easily take a slightly longer route and continue to take in the sights — including grazing cows!

Sources

• https://www.travelzoo.com/uk/blog/5-child-friendly-walks-to-do-in-the-lake-district-maps-included/
• https://www.northeastfamilyfun.co.uk/2017/05/best-pushchair-friendly-walks-north-east-england.html
• https://my.northtyneside.gov.uk/category/634/heritage-walks
• https://www.visitscotland.com/see-do/active/walking/family-friendly-walks/
• https://babyroutes.co.uk/walking-routes/gloucestershire-cotswolds-forest-of-dean/selsley-common-walk/

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