9 exciting UK adventure challenges to test your limits

Overview: This circular route in the Yorkshire Dales National Park takes in the iconic peaks of Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside, and Ingleborough. Unlike the National Three Peaks, it requires no long-distance travel between climbs — just a single, continuous 24-mile loop.

Terrain: Rolling limestone paths, steep grassy climbs, boggy moorland sections, and exposed ridges.

What to Expect: You’ll ascend over 1,600m across three distinct peaks, passing dry-stone walls, ancient viaducts, and some of England’s most scenic upland views. The traditional goal is to complete the loop in under 12 hours — perfect for a long day’s push.

Best Time: Any time of year, but the trail is popular from spring to autumn. In winter, snow and wind can add a serious mountaineering feel.

Overview: This is no ordinary trek — it’s a full-on endurance test used by the UK Special Forces as part of their selection process. You'll hike the brutally steep 24km route over Pen y Fan, the highest peak in southern Britain, often carrying a weighted pack.

Terrain: Rugged, windswept trails across the Brecon Beacons; includes steep ascents, rapid descents, and river crossings.

What to Expect: Expect harsh weather, no-nonsense pacing, and a military-style challenge that strips things back to raw determination. Whether you choose to go clean (no pack) or weighted (35lbs), it’s a gritty, rewarding experience.

Best Time: Available year-round, with winter and summer editions — both bring their own brutal beauty.

Overview: Devised by Alfred Wainwright, this 190-mile walking challenge crosses England from the Irish Sea at St Bees to the North Sea at Robin Hood’s Bay. Although traditionally done over 12–16 days, shorter sections or supported packages are available year-round.

Terrain: Coastline, moorland, river valleys, and fells — including the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, and North York Moors.

What to Expect: A long-distance walking pilgrimage through England’s most scenic national parks. You'll pass pubs, castles, herds of sheep, and plenty of solitude. Companies offer bag transport and accommodation packages, making it logistically smooth.

Best Time: Walkable all year with proper prep; autumn and winter bring quieter trails and wild beauty.

Overview: This stunning circular route encircles the Edale Valley in the Peak District, forming a classic ridge-line challenge. It’s a favourite among long-distance fell runners and hillwalkers looking for a full-day loop across dramatic moorland and gritstone edges.

Terrain: Exposed ridgelines, peat bogs, rocky scrambles, and windswept moors. Navigation skills are a bonus — especially in mist.

What to Expect: Covering around 20 miles and 1,200m of ascent, this is a serious day out — but it’s manageable with fitness and determination. You'll pass iconic locations like Kinder Scout, Mam Tor, and the Great Ridge. There’s a satisfying feeling of completion as you circle back into Edale.

Best Time: Year-round, though winter can be harsh with snow and wind. A great challenge in any season with the right gear.

Overview: At over 630 miles, this is the UK’s longest national trail — and while most people don’t walk the whole thing, there are fantastic year-round section hikes available across Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, and Somerset.

Terrain: Undulating cliff paths, dramatic sea views, wild beaches, and quaint fishing villages. Plenty of ups and downs — this isn’t flat walking!

What to Expect: Popular stretches like St Ives to Penzance or Minehead to Westward Ho! offer 3–7 day challenges through ever-changing coastal landscapes. Many sections offer year-round hiking, with milder southern climates allowing even winter treks.

Best Time: Any time of year. Spring and autumn are ideal for fewer crowds, but winter hikes are doable with planning and appropriate clothing.

Overview: Climbing Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) by torchlight to watch the sunrise from the summit is an unforgettable experience — and it’s available almost all year. This challenge turns a classic day hike into a memorable nocturnal adventure.

Terrain: Well-marked mountain paths; most popular route is the Llanberis Path, but other options (Pyg, Miners, Rhyd Ddu) may be used depending on guide and conditions.

What to Expect: Guides lead groups starting in the early hours of the morning, pacing the ascent to reach the summit for dawn. Cold winds, shooting stars, and the peaceful stillness of the mountains make it magical — even for first timers.

Best Time: Year-round (with appropriate conditions and group minimums). Winter routes may change depending on snow and ice.

Overview: A 220-mile circular bikepacking route that combines off-road adventure cycling with history, weaving through the South Downs, Ridgeway, and Salisbury Plain. It’s a self-powered odyssey past castles, cathedrals, and Iron Age forts.

Terrain: Gravel, bridleways, woodland tracks, country roads. Suitable for gravel bikes or hardtail mountain bikes.

What to Expect: Though not a single-day ride, King Alfred’s Way is a flexible multi-day challenge — ideal for cyclists wanting a rugged tour of southern England’s heritage. Expect moderate climbs, wild camping (or B&Bs), and total immersion in landscape and history.

Best Time: Open and rideable year-round, though trail surfaces can be muddy in winter. A great lowland adventure outside the mountain zones.

Overview: This 100-mile long-distance trail runs the length of the Kintyre peninsula in western Scotland, offering coastal cliffs, forest trails, and sweeping sea views over to the Hebrides. Far quieter than routes like the West Highland Way, it's a hidden gem.

Terrain: Varied — moorland paths, forest roads, remote beaches, and sea cliffs. Great for solitude-seekers.

What to Expect: You’ll walk through ancient castles, whisky distilleries, and tiny fishing hamlets, with views over to Arran, Jura, and Islay. Great for those looking to escape the crowds without compromising on challenge.

Best Time: All year with preparation. Spring and autumn bring mild weather and fewer midges; winter adds a wild edge for seasoned walkers.