South England's Greatest Walking Spots

Charity

29 June 2023

It's summer time - at last! Time to get outside and enjoy everything this lovely part of England has to offer.

Walking is always a winner, so we asked our friends at The Ramblers charity to recommend their favourite routes in the area.

"Southern England has a lot to offer walkers," explains Rebecca Birrane, Head of Walking Experience. "My selection spans wild coastlines and clifftop views to rolling hills and riverside strolls."

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Best For: Wild Coastlines

Lizard Peninsula, Cornwall (5.8 miles)

The Lizard coastline is one of the UK's most 'wild' for shipping and sailing. But on dry land, the scenery, geology, and wildlife - including thousands of resident seals - make this route an absolute joy.

Lizard village is the most southerly on the British mainland. The walk starts in the large car park in the centre of town and takes you past pretty hedgerows before reaching the secluded Kynance Cove.

At the top of a steep flight of steps leading up to clifftop, you'll be rewarded with spectacular views along the coast.

Lizard Point comes into view a couple of miles later, and then you'll pass through the rugged Polpeor Cover, a good point to spot seals and birdlife. Paddle in the crystal-clear waters of Housel Bay before retracing your steps.

Route Information for Lizard Peninsula (opens in new tab)

Best For: Reservoir Views

British Camp Reservoir, Malvern Hills (3 miles)

Little wonder that Iron Age Britons chose this site as a stronghold. This circular route takes in a small but beautiful section of the Malvern Hills and is perfect for groups of mixed-ability or families. Start in the main car park opposite The Malvern Hills Hotel and look out for tantalising glimpses of stunning panoramic views through the trees.

Once the treeline drops away, views of the reservoir and beyond open up. You can opt to walk through woodland, slightly off the beaten track, which offers the chance to spot deer and birdlife. As the walk goes on, you'll be treated with more spectacular views, including Hay Bluff to the west.

Route Information for British Camp Reservoir (opens in new tab)

Best For: City College Riverside Pubs and Cafes

Cambridge (5.2 miles)

This city circuit explores the famed University town's open spaces and threads its way between various colleges and along the river Cam lined with university boathouses, offering plenty of pub stops along the way.

The 5.2-mile route starts at Parker's Piece, an area of green space widely regarded as the birthplace of modern football.

You'll see a heady mix of interesting architecture from the outset and soon find yourself walking along the river Cam. Along the riverbank, one of the first hostels is Fort St George. Later you'll reach the Maypole, Granta, and Mill pubs as well as the famous Fitzbillies Bakery. Stop off at one or two for a well-earned refresher - or tea and cake!