23 Day Best of the UK walks
23-Day Best of the UK Walks – A Pack Free Guided Walking Adventure
Embark on the ultimate walking journey through the UK with our 23-day Pack Free guided tour, featuring the best sections of three iconic trails: England’s Coast to Coast walk, the South West Coast Path from Dorset to Cornwall, and Scotland’s West Highland Way. This unique adventure takes you on a captivating exploration of the UK’s most spectacular landscapes, from the rugged coastlines and charming villages of southern England to the majestic mountains and lochs of the Scottish Highlands. It’s the perfect way to experience the highlights of these famous walks in just 23 days.
This adventure has been designed for those who want to experience the beauty and diversity of the UK’s top trails but have limited time. We’ve carefully selected the most stunning sections of each route, avoiding the mundane and focusing on the best experiences each region has to offer. Traditionally, these three trails take 9–10 weeks to complete, but our curated itinerary allows you to enjoy all the highlights in a more manageable timeframe, with convenient transfers between each region.
Starting with the famous Coast to Coast walk, you’ll traverse some of northern England’s most spectacular landscapes, including the dramatic Lake District, the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales, and the picturesque North York Moors. You’ll then head south to explore the South West Coast Path, where you’ll walk along the dramatic cliffs and golden beaches of Cornwall, Dorset’s iconic Jurassic Coast, and quaint fishing villages. The journey culminates in Scotland with the renowned West Highland Way, taking you through the heart of the Scottish Highlands, with its stunning lochs, towering mountains, and ancient glens.
Each night, unwind in handpicked upmarket accommodations, including stays in superb properties with breathtaking views, and even spend a night in a historic castle. Relish exceptional dining experiences that showcase local produce and fine wines, allowing you to savour the unique flavours of each region.
This 23-day Best of the UK walking holiday is more than just a walk—it’s an extraordinary exploration of nature, culture, and history, offering a truly immersive experience across the UK’s most iconic landscapes.
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A Pack Free Walk
Carry as little as your water, camera and lunch
One of the biggest drawcards of this walk is that our guests won’t be asked to carry their clothes or overnight bags for the entire walk. This is a big advantage in you’ll avoid carrying an additional 8kg or more on your back every day. With Life’s An Adventure, carry as little as your water, camera and lunch.
Wow Factor!
Special night at the Minack Theatre near Land’s End
There are so many wow moments on this walk, the scenery, the accommodation and the dining, however, we have included one extra experience to delight you. We will enjoy a special night at the Minack Theatre near Land’s End. The theatre is a unique outdoor Theatre perched on the cliffs above the Atlantic Ocean. The program features throughout the season drama, musical and opera. Sure to be a truly memorable and unique evening.
Flexible and Personalised Tours
We have designed our walks to be flexible as we understand each person is different. Guests have the choice of longer or shorter walking days and also the freedom to opt-out of any day’s walking and enjoy free time to explore the towns we visit en-route. All tours are small and intimate with a maximum group size of 12 people. However, if you have a bigger group please contact us for details.
Superb Guides
Guides are essential in delivering the ultimate walking experience. Our tours are accompanied by two guides. You’ll be accompanied by a local guide who has a passion and enthusiasm for the area and a second host guide who will meet you in London and accompany you for the entire trip delivering a world-class walk.
Fabulous meals featuring local produce
Our walks feature fabulous meals each evening accompanied with sensational wines. During our stay in Port Issac enjoy dinner at the waterfront at the well-renowned Outlaw’s Kitchen with a menu featuring the finest sustainable seafood caught off the Cornish coast by small boats.
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Why Choose Us
Tour Itinerary
When you walk with Life’s An Adventure you can be sure that our aim is to deliver a tour beyond your expectations. When comparing other tours in this region be sure you check that you don’t you have to carry your own gear, you don’t have to camp and that your accommodation is not a long distance from where you are walking. We believe our tours deliver exceptional value for money, with all the creature comforts you are after.
Your 23 day walking holiday includes:
- Pack Free fully supported walk with no heavy packs to carry
- 1 night accommodation at stunning Bishops Cottage, Lulworth Cove
- 1 night accommodation at Mills End Hotel, Dartmoor National Park
- 1 night accommodation at The Schoolhouse, Port Isaac
- 1 night accommodation at Watergate Bay Hotel, Newquay
- 2 nights accommodation at St Ives Harbour Hotel & Spa
- 1 night accommodation at The Castle Hotel, Taunton
- 1 night accommodation at the Raddison Edwardian Hotel, Manchester
- 1 night accommodation at Ennerdale Country House Hotel
- 1 night accommodation at Wordsworth Hotel and Spa
- 1 night accommodation at Inn on the Lake, Ullswater
- 1 night accommodation at Augill Castle, Kirkby Stephen
- 1 night accommodation at The Burgoyne Hotel, Reeth
- 1 night accommodation at The Kings Head Hotel, Richmond
- 1 night accommodation at Gisborough Hall Hotel, Gisborough, North Yorkshire
- 1 night accommodation at the Haiton Hotel, Carlisle
- 1 night accommodation at the Malmaison Hotel, Glasgow
- 1 night accommodation at the Oak Tree Inn on Loch Lomond
- 1 night accommodation at lakefront at Ardlui, Loch Lomond
- 1 night accommodation at the superb Bridge of Orchy Hotel
- 2 night accommodation at the luxurious Kinghouse Hotel. Glencoe
- 22 x Restaurant dinners every evening featuring local produce
- Complimentary wines with evening meals
- 23 delicious lunches (including some at traditional English Pubs along the route)
- Kynance Cove afternoon tea
- Celebratory Lunch at the Tinners Arms
- Celebration drink at Robin Hood Hotel at the legendary Wainwright’s Bar
- 22 x Hot and cold breakfasts
- Professional and passionate guides
- Day 1 pick ups from London
- Final day drop offs in Glasgow
Guests will be required to fly into London the day prior to the tour.
Meet your guides in the foyer of the Petersham Hotel, this hotel is ideally located in the vibrant suburban town of Richmond in South-West London, 14kms from London’s CBD. This town has great restaurants and cafes, a magnificent park and a short train ride away to central London.
This morning we drive to the Dorset region of South West England, approximately 2.5 hours drive. We start our walk at quaint Osmington Mills and follow a quiet rural path leading to high undulating cliffs. From here we explore the Jurassic Coast, England’s first natural World Heritage Site, putting it on a par with the Great Barrier Reef and the Grand Canyon. This striking shoreline encompassing 185 million years of the Earth’s history. It means you can walk, in just a few hours, many millions of years in geological time. En route, we take in spectacular views of the spectacular limestone arch of Durdle Door, surrounded by striking azure seas, reminiscent of the Mediterranean. Take in magnificent views of the high cliffs of White Nothe, Weymouth Bay and Portland beyond. We walk into our accommodation perfectly located overlooking pretty Lulworth Cove. Bishops Cottage is a 4 star boutique B&B featuring comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and views of the sea. Enjoy time to wander the quaint shops of the Cove, take a swim in the pool or cove before joining the group for dinner at a local restaurant featuring a seasonal menu of locally sourced dishes served with wine.
Walk Terrain notes: Walk begins through a rural area with undulating hills. Walking becomes progressively harder as we move along the impressive cliffs of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. There are some particularly steep ascents and descents on the way to Lulworth Cove, but our efforts are certainly rewarded. Easier option available: 7.9km to Durdle Door
After breakfast, we drive to Fleet to walk the next section of the South West Coast Path to Abbotsbury. This section of the Jurassic Coast is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the views of Chesil Beach and the Fleet are truly unique. Stories of a past of smuggling and wrecking add another level to the rich history of the area, and a reference to this is seen in the Moonfleet Manor Hotel (a good spot for refreshments) named after J.M. Falkner’s novel Moonfleet in which he describes a lake of brackish water full of “sea-fowl, herons, and oysters … shut off from the open Channel by a monstrous great beach or dike of pebbles”. Drive through the historic village of Abbotsbury with its thatched-roof stone houses. After our walk, we transfer to Dartmoor National Park to our accommodation (1.5 hours drive). This hotel is ideally located allowing us a shorter transfer time tomorrow as we make our way to the Cornish coast. Our accommodation tonight is at the charming Mill End Hotel, a country house on the River Teign in Dartmoor National Park, Devon. Tonight dine in the restaurant encompassing a classic English menu with quality local produce from Devon and Cornwall.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast, before transferring to the Cornish Coast (60 min drive). Today’s walk along the South Coast Path takes us from Boscastle to Tintagel which has links to the legend of King Arthur and on to the fishing village of charming Port Isaac of TV series ‘Doc Martin’ fame.
Today we will discover extraordinary rock formations, as we climb through valleys and across spectacular cliffs with the Atlantic below. This section of Coast Path is very rewarding if you enjoy bird watching and you may also spot the herds of Soay sheep and goats whose grazing helps to encourage the growth of spectacular wildflowers. There has reputedly been more imported post Roman pottery excavated from the headland of Tintagel than in the rest of Britain put together and this fact, along with the heroic and mysterious literary legends of King Arthur which surround the area, should highlight how historically significant this stretch of Cornish coastland really is.
The charming seaside village of Port Isaac is a real reward at the end of this strenuous walk, with its beautiful alleyways, many listed buildings and harbourside cafes and pubs. You may well recognise Port Isaac from the TV series Doc Martin, as it is the village he lives in (renamed as Portwenn in the series). Tonight we stay in The Old School Hotel. Located on the dramatic edge of the cliff, this charming renovated hotel has stunning views over Port Isaac. Tonight we dine in a local seafood restaurant on the waterfront known for its exceptional cuisine, with dishes perfectly matched with wines.
After breakfast, we transfer to the start of our walk at Porthcothan (40 mins). This stretch of coast, with its vicious rocks and wild seas, was once particularly hazardous for ships and responsible for many wrecks before the lighthouse was built at Trevose Head. We follow the coastal path in and out of little coves and headlands. Some of this stretch is quite populated, especially as we approach the busy holiday resort of Newquay, however, you can also feel a sense of escape when looking out to sea from one of the many headlands, such as the windswept Park Head which also offers fantastic views of the famous Bedruthan Steps. Local legend, fed to the Victorian tourists who loved this area, told of the Cornish giant Bedruthan who used the stacks as stepping-stones to cross the bay. If you feel like a picnic break and the tide is out, you may be tempted to take the long flight of steps down to explore the stacks as well as the many pools and caves on the beach.
In the afternoon we walk directly into our accommodation in Newquay at The Watergate Hotel. Tonight enjoy a delicious dinner served with wine.
Walk Terrain: The Coast Path leads you in and out of little coves and headlands with generally fairly easy walking, with some steep steps to climb in places.
Enjoy breakfast before we transfer from Newquay to Cadgwith ( 1 hr). Today’s walk takes us from the seaside village of Cadgwith to spectacular Kynance Cove. The fishing village of Cadgwith dates back to medieval times, and is a small village set on the side on a hill with cute thatched roof houses and colourful fishing boats. From here we follow the coastal trail on a walk through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, as we set off towards the most southerly point of Great Britain, Lizard Point. Here we stop for lunch at the Lizard Point Café. We will see some extraordinary geology along this stretch as the Path crosses serpentine, granite and schist. Serpentine is a dark green rock veined with red and white which is easily carved and can be polished to a really beautiful sheen. It was very popular in the 19th century when it was used for shop fronts and fireplaces. It is no surprise that the white sand and turquoise sea of Kynance Cove has been recognised as being part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the seas are particularly dramatic at high tide. Here we relax for an afternoon Cornish Cream tea overlooking the cove. Afterwards, we head to our hotel in St Ives. Along the way we stop and see fantastic views of St. Michael’s Mount where the remains of a Benedictine Priory sits on a tiny island just offshore. From here we head to St Ives Harbour Hotel & Spa or Tregenna Castle. Tonight enjoy a delicious dinner with wine.
Walk Terrain notes: There are some strenuous climbs as we leave Cadgwith and later a few relatively short steep ascents and descents as we reach Lizard Point.
This morning after a delightful breakfast overlooking the bay we transfer to the start of our walk to Sennen (1 hr). Today our walk takes us on the South Coast Path towards the remote, gleaming lighthouse at Pendeen Watch along the rugged paths of the Granite Coast from the beautiful sweep of golden sand at Sennen Cove. Taking in part of Cornwall’s oldest mining district (featured in the TV series Poldark) and leading around Cape Cornwall where the Atlantic currents split, the path is a mixture of easy-open walking along the high cliff tops and short, rough ascents and descents. You may spot seals, as well as a variety of seabirds, as you walk beside the banks of seasonal pink thrift and carpets of purple heather and look out to the Atlantic crashing on the rocks below. We return to Carbis Bay Estate for an early dinner. Tonight enjoy dinner in St Ives. Afterwards, we return to the St Ives Harbour Hotel & Spa to retire for the evening.
Walk Terrain: Moderate, apart from a short section near Aire Point where you have to clamber over a rock outcrop.
After breakfast at the hotel, we head out for our last walk on the South Coast Path. We enjoy the views as our walk journeys out of St Ives to Clodgy Point. From here the path plunges down towering cliffs into beautiful coves and back up again. There is a real feeling of remoteness here, unlike any other part of the Coast Path. The landscape is beautifully wild and rugged and the area around the parish of Zennor is designated both an Environmentally Sensitive Area and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Today we will have our final celebratory lunch at the fabulous Tinner Arms at Zennor, a typical English pub. From here we transfer to the city of Newquay those doing our 7 day walk will depart here at The Headland Hotel. Those continuing on will head to the heart of Somerset (2 hr drive) to stay at the charming family-run Castle Hotel. This hotel is set in a magnificent 100 year old castle and offers fine dining in the restaurant featuring fresh local ingredients accompanied with wonderful wines.
Walk Terrain: Gentle walk out of St Ives to Clodgy Point. Followed by a strenuous journey of roller coaster climbs as the Coast Path plunges down towering cliffs into beautiful coves. This is one of the toughest sections of the entire Path, due to the rocky and sometimes boggy ground, and so progress is slower than other sections – but the views make up for it!
For those wanting an easier option walk from Carbis Bay to St Ives, with free time for shopping or a visit to the spectacular regional Tate Gallery, before joining the rest of the group for lunch at the Tinner’s Arm.
Enjoy breakfast we are transferred north to Manchester (3 hours 40 mins drive). Along the way we stop for lunch. We arrive in Manchester early afternoon and check in to our accommodation at the Raddison Blue Edwardian Hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Tonight enjoy dinner in the hotel restaurant featuring local produce and wines.
This morning we drive from Manchester to the coastal village of St Bees in Cumbria on the West Coast of England, a 3 hour drive. St Bees is a small village with over 1000 years of history. We head to the water to see the Coast to Coast monument near the lifeboat station and as Founder of the walk, Aldred Wainwright’s advises, dip our boot in the Irish Sea to start the walk. From here our walk follows the cliffs of St Bees Head for a few kilometres reknown for its birdlife and before reaching St Bees Lighthouse. We then turn inland to pass through the villages of Sandwith with its village green and quaint gardens, then Moor Row and eventually walk into our accommodation at Cleator in the West Cumberland Plain. We spend the night at the charming Ennerdale Country House Hotel enjoying a superb dinner in the restaurant accompanied with wine.
Easier Option: For those that want a shorter walk today. Enjoy an 8kms to the Sandwith where our vehicle will meet you and take you to the hotel earlier, where you can check-in and relax.
Walk Terrain notes: 250m ascents. Grade: easy.
Optional Itinerary: For those that don’t want to walk today, enjoy a free day in the pretty Lake District town of Grasmere with its array of quaint shops and cafes.
This morning we enjoy an early breakfast before the short 10 minute transfer to the start of our walk at Ennerdale Water. Today’s walk will showcase stunning scenery as our path takes us along the pretty shores of Ennerdale Water. This remote region is far less frequented by tourists than the other lakes that make up the Lake District and well worth the effort. From Ennerdale we enjoy a relatively flat walk to the remote Black Sail, before the steep ascent at Loft Beck and the stunning landscapes of Honister Pass. From here we will transfer to the beautiful Lake District village of Grasmere (45 minutes).
Tonight we stay at the charming Wordsworth Hotel and Spa. Set in the centre of Grasmere with quaint shops and cafes at your doorstep, enjoy time to explore this charming village. Tonight we enjoy dinner in the hotel restaurant featuring traditional English cuisine with perfectly matched wines.
Walk terrain: Total ascent 765m. Descent 785m.
Walk Terrain: Total ascent 900m. Descent 805m.
Optional Itinerary: For those that don’t want to walk today, enjoy a free morning in Grasmere with its array of quaint shops and cafes and then arrive early in Glenridding to enjoy all the facilities of our lakeside hotel.
After breakfast, we continue our walking adventure through the Lake District from Grasmere to Glenridding. The route ascends to the pass of Grisedale Hause and then head up and over St Sunday Crag (840m) and down the valley to the charming Patterdale village. Note for fitter groups we have the option to take a more challenging route via the summit of Helvellyn which takes an extra 2 hours (3kms extra).
Afterwards, we continue our walk from Patterdale into our hotel at Glenridding. Our accommodation tonight is at the magnificent Inn on the Lake, Ullswater. This 4-star hotel is set on a magnificent 15-acre property on the shores of Lake Ullswater offering breathtaking views and stunning gardens. Tonight dine in the hotel’s grand Lake View Restaurant featuring imaginative local cuisine served with wonderful wines.
Walk Terrain: easy gradients. Total ascent and descent 536m.
Easier Option: For those that want a shorter walk today. Enjoy a 14kms walk to near Tarn Moor. From here you can travel with our vehicle to the Castle earlier, where you can check-in and relax.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before our transfer to the start of our walk (60 minutes) through the wild moorlands. Beyond Sunbiggin Tarn home to abundant birdlife, the route takes you into Smardale, a delightful valley through which a railway once passed and an impressive viaduct can still be seen. Then it’s over Smardale Fell and a descent into the quaint market town of Kirkby Stephen. We transfer to our accommodation (10 mins). Tonight we stay in a boutique castle at Kirkby Stephens. Augill Castle has been painstakingly restored to its former glory by its current owners. You’ll love the warmth, charm and hospitality of this unique location. Tonight enjoy dinner prepared by a private chef.
Walk Terrain: Ascents 838m
Easier Option: For those that want a shorter walk today. Enjoy a 10kms walk to Gunnerside where we stop for lunch, after lunch you can travel with our vehicle to the hotel earlier you can check-in and relax.
This morning enjoy a delicious breakfast before we transfer to Keld to the start of our walk (30mins). The tiny and tranquil village of Keld sits at the head of the Swaledale Valley. Keld’s landscape has four beautiful waterfalls as well as numerous old stone buildings. It was once the heart of a thriving mining industry when the population rose to 6000 in the 19th century. On today’s walk, you will delight in beautiful panoramas of rolling green hills, pretty rivers, and abandoned stone farmhouses and mines. At lunchtime, we stop at the cute village of Gunnerside where we will enjoy lunch in a typical English pub. After lunch, our walk continues on to the village of Reeth with its variety of shops. We walk directly into our hotel at Reeth, the luxurious Burgoyne Hotel, a charming Georgian country house hotel overlooking the village green. Tonight enjoy dinner in the hotel restaurant dining on delicious food featuring local produce and wonderful wine.
Walk terrain: Relatively easy and straight-forward walk with only a few ascents.
Easier Option: For those that want an easier option today, walk 8kms from Reeth to Marrick. Our vehicle will meet you here and take you to Richmond where you have the remainder of the day to explore this charming town. Richmond has an impressive Norman Castle, as well as a number of pretty shops and cafes. Or you can visit the Georgian Theatre Royal Tour near the hotel.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before we start our walk today. From the village of Reeth our walk takes us past Marrick Priory once a Benedictine nunnery in 1140. Little of this building has survived except for the tower. Our path gradually climbs through woods and then grassy pastures along the way passing the villages of Marrick and Marske. We eventually arrive at the town of Richmond. This beautiful Yorkshire Dales market town has an impressive Norman Castle and a large cobbled market place.
We spend the night at the Kings Head Hotel, Richmond. This hotel has a prime position in the market place square, and has the ideal combination of old-world charm and modern comforts. Tonight enjoy dinner in the hotel restaurant featuring fresh local ingredients and perfectly matched wines.
Easier Option: For those that want an easier option today, walk 13kms to Lord Stones Café, Carlton Bank. From here our vehicle will meet you and take you to your accommodation early.
This morning enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring to our day’s walk. (40 mins). Today’s walk takes us into the North Yorks Moors with its rolling hills of purple heather. The North York Moors are one of the largest expanses of heather moorland in the UK covering an area of 1436 square kilometres. Our walks takes us through woodlands then climbs steeping up to the northern edge of the moors. From here we take in magnificent panoramic views. We follow the undulating hills to Carlton Bank and arrive at Lord Stone Cafe for a break. Afterwards, we continue our journey enjoying superb views all the way to Clay Bank Top. We transfer to our accommodation 30 minutes.
Tonight enjoy accommodation at Gisborough Hall Hotel in Gisborough. Enjoy the 16th century property full of old-world charm and character. Relax in the cosy main lounge and bar area with its roaring log fires and enjoy the warm hospitality and charm of this special property. Each room at the hotel as its own special character and decor as well as ensuite. Dinner will be in the hotel’s stylish restaurant offering hearty Yorkshire fare and superb wines.
Enjoy breakfast at our Inn before transferring to the start of the walk. (40 mins). Today we begin at the village of Littlebeck, pass by the ‘Hermitage’ a huge boulder hollowed out to make a home near the 20m high Falling Foss Waterfall. We walk through the last section of moors near Greystone hills before reaching the coast, where the trails takes us along a coastal cliff path into Robin Hood’s Bay. This stunning red-roofed village is set on the hillside overlooking the North Sea. From here we descend down the narrow steep streets of the village till we eventually reach Wainwright’s Bar at the Bay Hotel located on the harbour waterfront. Here we will enjoy a celebratory lunch and take photos near the end’s Coast to Coast plaque! After lunch, we transfer to Carlisle (2 hr 40 mins). Tonight our accommodation is at The Halston Hotel, Carlisle. Enjoy dinner in the Penny Blue restaurant with superb wines.
After breakfast we head out to explore historic Hadrian’s Wall. Built by the Roman army after Emperor Hadrians visit in 122AD, the stone walls stretched from coast to coast forming a continuous Roman defensive barrier that guarded the north-west frontier of the Roman empire for nearly 300 years from Barbarians with a small fort every mile. We will travel to Housesteads to see the best-preserved Roman fort in the country as well as some other key locations. Afterwards, we make our way to Glasgow (2 hr drive), stopping for lunch enroute. Our accommodation for tonight is the boutique Malmaison Hotel with dinner in the stylish Chez Mal Brasserie including wine.
This morning we drive from Glasgow to the start of our walk. The West Highland Way officially starts at Milngavie on the northern outskirts of Glasgow. We will stop here for photos and to pick up lunches but will continue on to the small historic town of Drymen to start our great walk. On leaving Drymen, we join the West Highland Way trail as it veers away from the road and heads towards Conic Hill. The view from Conic Hill is world-class, and your first taste of the epic landscapes you will experience on the West Highland Way. Below you, stretching across the world-famous Loch Lomond, are a chain of islands that mark the highland boundary fault, the literal threshold between the lowlands and the highlands of Scotland. After tearing yourself away from the views of Loch Lomond you descend into the tiny village of Balmaha. In the afternoon we join a boat cruise on stunning Loch Lomond to the island of Inchcailloch, where we take a short walk around this beautiful island. Around this area, keep a lookout for Ospreys, diving into the loch after fish.
Later we check into our accommodation at the charming Oak Tree Inn. Set on the eastern shores of Loch Lomond, this property is ideally located next to the loch and in the centre of the village centre. Tonight enjoy dinner in the Inn’s superb restaurant featuring local Scottish cuisine served with superb wines. You may even be brave to try the famous Scottish Haggis!
Easier Option: For those that want a shorter walk today. Enjoy an 8km walk is available today to Rowardennan.
After a hearty breakfast, we start our walk from Balmaha. This is a day of interesting walking along the ‘bonnie banks of Loch Lomond from Balmaha to Inversaid. The Loch is the largest area of fresh water in Britain and is almost 40km long and up to 190m deep. Enjoy views of the loch and beautiful scenery dominated by water and woodland gives way to the rocky fells and mountain views of the Highlands and Ben Lomond Mountain. Once we arrive at Inversaid we enjoy refreshments at the local pub.
Afterwards we catch the ferry across to Inveruglas before being transferred the short distance to our accommodation. Tonight we stay at the Ardlui Hotel on the northern banks of Loch Lomond. This charming hotel has a superb location with majestic views down Loch Lomond. Tonight enjoy our meal in the restaurant accompanied by superb wines.
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before transferring back across the water. From here we drive north and enjoy a short stop at the world-famous Drovers Inn. This reputedly-haunted pub is an eccentric mix of old furniture, stuffed animals and pieces of armour all in a lively hotel.
Today its nearly 16kms of mostly level walking along the worn, cobbled surface of the old military road surrounded by wonderful mountain scenery. For much of its route the trail makes use of historical lines of communication, in particular droving and military roads. The growth of cattle rearing in the Highlands in the 17th and 18th centuries created a network of drove roads through the mountains. Many of the old Inns sprang up at this time to provide accommodation for the drovers and grazing for the animals.
Tonight our accommodation is at the charming Bridge of Orchy Hotel. This hotel is nestled in a tiny hamlet by the river and near the famous Bridge of Orchy. Enjoy dinner created by Head Chef David Hetherington featuring produce from local farmers.
After a hearty breakfast we head out for our day’s walking adventure. Today’s walk takes us from the Bridge of Orchy to Kingshouse. We traverse the Rannoch Moor, the largest undeveloped wilderness area in the whole of Britain. This remote landscape composed of boggy moorlands, lochans, rivers, and rocky outcrops supports a variety of flora and fauna including curlews, grouse and red deer. It’s known as the remotest and wildest section of the whole Way. We arrive at our accommodation at the iconic Kingshouse Hotel. Surrounded by dramatic mountains, the hotel has a backdrop of outstanding natural beauty. Relax by the cosy fires as you soak up the sensational views from the lounge and dining room areas. Tonight dine in the stylish Kingshouse Restaurant indulging in sensational cuisine and perfectly matched wines.
Easier Option: Guests that are after an easier day can be transported by our vehicle to Altnafeadh and walk 9km. (includes the Devils Staircase)
After breakfast, we head out for our day’s walk. This stretch gives spectacular walking across inspiring mountainous terrain. After a gentle start walking towards the Glencoe hills we begin our climb to the highest point of the West Highland Way, The Devils Staircase. This ascent of almost 260m is not as hard of the name suggests. It is believed to have been named by soldiers who had to carve this sinuous military road up the hillside in the 1750s. We follow the trail as it climbs to the pass (548m) where there are views over the Glencoe peaks and, in good weather, north towards Ben Nevis. From the top, it’s a long descent across rugged mountainside and then on a rather steep track down to Kinlochleven, a more modern village set amidst dramatic Highland scenery. But after a day walking around Glencoe it seems essential to finish with refreshments at the Boots Bar of the famous Clachaig Inn.
Afterwards we return to our accommodation at the superb Kinghouse Hotel for the evening for dinner in the restaurant served with wine.
After breakfast, we transfer to the start of our last walk. Today’s walk takes us within sight of Britain’s tallest mountain Ben Nevis. We will pass locations famous for the film Braveheart with Mel Gibson, on our way to the village of Glen Nevis. Here we will have our final celebratory lunch at the Ben Nevis Inn. Afterwards, we head to Fort William which has a trail endpoint with sculpture in its main pedestrian street where we can take some final group photos and enjoy some time to shop for souvenirs in the quaint shops. From here we transfer back to Glasgow (2.5 hours drive) where you can be dropped back at the hotel or the airport. The end of a remarkable journey.
Tour Accommodation
Bishops Cottage, Lulworth Cove
Lulworth Cove
The end of our first day sees us walking into pretty Lulworth Cove. Our accommodation Bishops Cottage is a 4 star B&B dating back to the 1650s on the edge of the cove. After you refresh in your room, stroll around the small village shops, swim in the accommodation’s pool or in the sparkling waters of the cove or simply relax in these stylish surrounds. Our guests will enjoy stylish bedrooms with ensuites, each room with their own character and decor. Evening meals are enjoyed at a local restaurant, offering local produce sourced from the Dorset region and seafood from the local fisherman.
Mills End Hotel
Dartmoor
Enroute from Dorset to Cornwall we stay at the charming Mill End Hotel in Devon. Set on the banks of the River Teign, this charming country house is situated in tranquil Dartmoor National Park.
Originally a 15th century flour mill this recently restored accommodation features cosy lounge areas with fireplaces with an old world elegance. Our guests will enjoy well-appointed King Rooms with ensuites.
In the evening we dine in their award-winning restaurant featuring creative modern cuisine and superb wines.
The Schoolhouse
Port Isaac
With a magnificent clifftop location in the village of Port Isaac lies our superb accommodation at The Old School Hotel. Offering stunning views over the Port and a cosy restaurant and bar your stay here will be truly memorable. Guests will stay in King size rooms with ensuite each named after the school room it once housed. Enjoy the quirky decor and charm of this little gem of a hotel. This village has been used in a number of tv shows and movies including Doc Martin. In the evening we enjoy dinner down near the waterfront at a local restaurant run by reknown chef Chef Nathan Law. Dinner includes superb wines.
The Headland Hotel & Spa
Newquay
Perched atop an iconic clifftop overlooking Fistral Beach, the Headland Hotel & Spa is a unique and stylish five-star luxury hotel in Newquay, Cornwall. It’s ideally located just a 10-minute stroll from Newquay’s center. Offering the perfect blend of discreet English ambience and decadent hospitality, the hotel takes pride in its individually designed luxury hotel rooms and suites, each offering a cosy seating area, a work desk and a modern bathroom. This hotel also features an Aqua Club, complete with six pools, a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, and a sun terrace overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
St Ives Harbour Hotel & Spa or Tregenna Castle
St Ives, 2 night stay
Set against a seemingly endless turquoise sea and just a short palm tree lined walk to the golden sands below, our Cornish beachside hotel and spa is a totally tropical retreat. Standing grandly above the award-winning Porthminster Beach, soak up that vitamin sea from every aspect. We’ll stay in Deluxe Sea View Rooms.
The Castle Hotel
Taunton Somerset
Located in the heart of Somerset, lies The Castle Hotel in Taunton. This hotel is utilised as we make our way to start the Coast to Coast walk. This four star hotel has a history stretching over 1000 years. The hotel’s restaurant the Castle Bow offers the best regional cuisine and wonderful season dishes. Guests have the choice of queen or twin beds with ensuite.
The Edwardian
Manchester
Set inside the historic Free Trade Hall, one of the UK’s oldest building lies The Edwardian Manchester hotel. This newly refurbished hotel features stylish bars, restaurants, a health spa and gym. The hotel is ideally located only minutes from the city centre, and within 2 minutes walk of the Art Gallery and Central Library. Guests stay in standard rooms with ensuite with choice of queen or twin beds.
Ennerdale Country House Hotel
Cleator
Night one we spend the evening at the charming Ennerdale Country House Hotel set amidst five acres of manicured gardens. This Country House has been painstakingly restored and features cosy fireplaces, a relaxing bar and the Fountain Room restaurant where we will enjoy dinner featuring local produce and superb wines. Guests will stay in ensuite bedrooms, all individually designed.
Wordsworth Hotel and Spa
Grasmere, Lakes District
The Wordsworth Hotel and Spa is situated in the heart of the picturesque village of Grasmere in the Lake District. At your doorstep, you will find an array of charming village shops and cafes. Formerly the shooting lodge of the Earl of Cadogan, this property has been renovated and transformed into a superb Country House Hotel. The hotel also features a Spa for those that wish to be pampered.
Our guests will stay in stylish Grasmere Village View Rooms with ensuites, superb furnishings, complimentary robes and slippers and views overlooking the village. In the evenings’ guests will dine in the award-winning Signature Restaurant famed for its sophisticated dining and fine wines.
Inn on the Lake
Ullswater, Lakes District
Situated in one of the most spectacular settings of the Lake District, the luxurious Inn on the Lake Hotel is our accommodation on night 3 of our journey. Set amidst 15 acres of beautiful gardens, this waterfront accommodation in the tranquil village of Glenridding offers magnificent views over stunning Lake Ullswater as well as a 9 hole golf course and croquet lawn. Relax in the Lake View lounges or the charming Orangery with its amazing 360-degree lake views. Guests will enjoy elegantly appointed rooms with ensuite. In the evening enjoy dinner in the award-winning Lake View Restaurant indulging in the chef’s culinary delights as well as fine wines to enjoy with dinner.
Augill Castle
Kirkby Stephens
Complete with turrets and towers, this boutique castle stay will be a highlight of our journey. Set amongst 20 acres of grounds, this loving restored castle has a myriad of quirky rooms including a drawing room, great hall, dining room, music room, library, the Great British Bar and a mini cinema room. The atmosphere in the castle is far from formal and reserved, owners Wendy & Simon will make you will feel like this is a home away from home, with good old fashioned family hospitality. Each bedroom has it’s own character furnished with an eclectic mix of antique furniture and contemporary pieces as well as deep old fashioned baths.
In the evenings enjoy the best of British cooking in the grand dining created by your chef and served with fine wines.
The Burgoyne Hotel
Reeth
This luxury Georgian Country House Hotel is nestled in the heart of the village of Reeth. Overlooking the village green with beautiful views over the Swaledale Valley, this charming 5-star hotel has been tastefully upgraded with stylish furnishings and superb facilities. Each room in the Hotel has its own unique character, charm and decor, all featuring stylish ensuites.
In the evenings dine in the hotel’s 1783 Bar & restaurant. Enjoy a creative menu of high quality fresh, locally sourced ingredients created from the resident chef.
The Kings Head Hotel
Richmond
Situated in prime position, the iconic King’s Head Hotel is the most central hotel in Richmond, right in the heart of this town overlooking the main square. The building was originally built as a town-centre mansion in 1720 by a local head-mine owner. Welcoming guests for over 200 years, this hotel was the preferred location for the elite. Today this tastefully renovated hotel provides the perfect combination of old-world charm and modern facilities. Guests will stay in Double Room with ensuitess.
In the evenings our guests will dine in the hotel restaurant, featuring high-quality meals with fresh local produce, accompanied with perfectly matched wines.
Gisborough Hall Hotel
Gisborough
In the heart of North Yorkshire lies our accommodation for our last night at the 16th century Gisborough Hall this property is full of old-world charm and character. Relax in the cosy main lounge and bar area with its roaring log fires and enjoy the warm hospitality and charm of this special property. Each room at the hotel as its own special character and decor as well as ensuite.
The Halston Hotel
Carlisle
The stylish and award-winning Halston Hotel is set in the city centre in one of the city’s most celebrated Edwardian buildings. The hotel has a spa, 2 bars and 2 restaurants including the chic Penny Blue located in a converted old post office, which serves fresh local ingredients. Guests stay in studio apartments with ensuite.
Malmaison Hotel
Glasgow
The Malmaison is a modern and chic 4 star boutique hotel set in a converted church. It has a stylish brasserie and bar. It is ideally located in Glasgow’s city centre, a short walk to Charing Cross, the Kings Theatre and the Sauchiehall Street shops. Guests will stay in standard rooms with choice of double or twin rooms and ensuite.
Oak Tree Inn
Loch Lomond, South banks
Situated on the eastern shores of Loch Lomond our accommodation for our first night is at the superb Oak Tree Inn. Enjoy the warm hospitality of this award-winning Country Inn ideally located in the centre of Balmaha village and close to the shores of the Loch. The Inn features a superb bar and restaurant under the shade of a magnificent 500 year old oak tree where you might be tempted to try the famous Scottish haggis!. The Inn features traditional ensuited rooms with Scottish decor, with some rooms in separate cottages.
Ardlui Hotel
Lock Lomond, North banks
The Ardlui Hotel lies on the northern banks of Loch Lomond showcasing magnificent views of Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park. Enjoy time at this family-run hotel with its homely atmosphere featuring the charming Loch View restaurant and 2 bars and large outdoor decks to take in the stunning views. The Ardlui Hotel is also a Whisky Ambassador Hotel offering a large range of authentic Scottish whiskies. In the evening enjoy wonderful meals in the restaurant featuring local fare served with complimentary wines.
Bridge of Orchy Hotel
Bridge of Orchy
Nestled in a tiny hamlet by the river and near the Bridge of Orchy, lies our accommodation for night two, the Bridge of Orchy Hotel. Located amidst the stunning scenery of the Scottish Highlands this old Victorian style hotel offers a relaxing, rural location and warm hospitality. Guests will love the mix of old 19th century charm and modern facilities with ensuited rooms decorated with traditional style and overlooking the countryside.
Head Chef David Hetherington creates wonderful evening meals featuring seasonal Scottish ingredients, supplied by local farmers and growers, local suppliers and farmers. Of course wines are included to enjoy with dinner.
Kinghouse Hotel
Glencoe 2 night stay
In the heart of the mountains against a backdrop of outstanding natural beauty lies the iconic Kinghouse Hotel. With a documented history dating back to the 17th century, the Kingshouse Hotel is said to be one of Scotland’s oldest licensed inns. Today the Kingshouse has been renovated and redesigned to blend in with its surroundings and fully upgraded with the latest modern facilities and stylish ensuited rooms. Relax in the spacious lounge and bar areas enjoying panoramic views of the Highlands of Scotland. In the evenings dine in the stylish Kinghouse Restaurant offering epic 270 degree views over the Glencoe Valley, a feast for both the eyes and taste buds.
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Tour Availability
PRIVATE GROUP TOUR ONLY:
This tour is only available for private groups only of 6 or more.
Contact us for a price based on your group number. Subject to availability.
Please contact us for more details on (02) 9975 4553 or email: walks@lifesanadventure.com.au
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INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS:
Please note your tour price does not include flights to / from the countries visited. We are offering our clients a service to book their international flights and any other travel plans during their holiday. If you would like our Flights Specialist to organise these requirements, please email us at flights@lifesanadventure.com.au with your requirements.
