Self-guided walking company Celtic Trails has compiled a new collection of Car-Free Walking Holidays across the UK, perfect for those that might not have access to a car, find driving cross-country tiresome or want to reduce their carbon footprint.
Each holiday in the eight-strong collection has been chosen with ease of access in mind, complete with convenient start and finish points close to train stations, meaning they can all be reached without ever having to jump in a car; from a simple amble along the River Thames to a week-long walk exploring Scotland’s ancient caves and castles and a longer 14-night break completing a full circuit of the Welsh island of Anglesey.
Thames Path – Picturesque riverside walk from Kemble to Oxford
5-13 Nights, 54-138 Miles
This pretty riverside path, which follows the banks of the Thames from source to sea, is well served by transport links across its length, with stations in villages and towns en-route including Kemble, Oxford and Hampton Court, allowing walkers to join and end the route where they wish.
The ease of access as well as the path’s gentle nature makes for a nice introduction to long distance walking, with walkers immersing themselves in England’s rich history; from impressive castles and National Trust properties to the chance to stop off in Runnymede, where the Magna Carta was signed.
5x nights priced from £520pp based on two sharing, including hotel or guesthouse accommodation on a B&B basis, luggage transfers and all route planning.
Fife Coastal Path – Wild coastal walk from North Queensferry to St. Andrews
7-8 Nights, 63 Miles
An easy 20-minute train ride from Edinburgh Waverly to North Queensferry will bring walkers within steps of the wild coastline of Fife, ready to start the week-long walk to the medieval city of St Andrews.
The coastal path takes in a succession of historic sites, including castles Aberdour and Wemyss, hidden coves, colourful fishing villages and even passes Kincraig Hill, the location that inspired Daniel Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe. There will be plenty of chances to spot wildlife en route too, including sea mammals and migratory birds, plus the chance to visit the offshore islands of Incholm and the Isle of May. Hop on the train home from St. Andrews.
7x nights priced from £615pp based on two sharing, including hotel or guesthouse accommodation on a B&B basis, luggage transfers and all route planning.
Anglesey Coastal Path – Circular walk from Holyhead taking in RSPBs and AONBs
6-13 Nights, 63-130 Miles
Ideal for anyone seeking a sense of ‘getting away from it all’ without the hassle of driving too far, the island of Anglesey is served by numerous direct trains including London, Manchester and Birmingham and is best started in the seaport of Holyhead.
The 130-mile route completes a full circuit of the island, framed against the backdrop of the Snowdonia mountain range, and 95% of the coastal path is within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Walkers can pass through Beaumaris, described as the Welsh Riviera, discover the unspoilt beauty of the RSPB South Stacks, cross the impressive Menai suspension bridge and pass some of the most atmospheric lighthouses in the UK, including the Penmon, South Stack and Llanddwyn Island.
6x nights priced from £510pp based on two sharing, including hotel or guesthouse accommodation on a B&B basis, luggage transfers and all route planning.
Celtic Trails’ new collection of Car-Free Walking Holidays is available here. Or visit www.celtictrailswalkingholidays.co.uk or call 01291 689774.
