Family Winter Walks are not just a great source of exercise but they also give us the chance to connect with nature and begin to appreciate the natural world around us. They are the perfect way to spend some quality time together with your family as you explore tall trees, hidden caves and beautiful waterfalls!

Winter at The Hermitage in Perthshire, Scotland, is a beautiful wonderland. Towering trees like Douglas Firs and ancient oaks line the tranquil trails along the rushing River Braan. You can discover breathtaking spots like Ossian’s Hall and the stunning Black Linn Falls. It’s an enchanting landscape, perfect for immersing yourself in nature’s snowy embrace. You feel like you are in a real-life fairytale!

Fun Fact! Did you know that 4 of the tallest trees in the UK can be found in Scotland – with the Douglas Fir being one of them?

“Fantastic site to visit. Lots to see and plenty of varied walks. Waterfalls, caves and viewpoints as well as various interesting buildings. Stunning scenery if you’re willing to do the walk between.

Accessibility is fair for the location. Disabled bays are available. Most paths are wide and sturdy with some rougher areas. Most areas are accessible to wheelchairs and prams with some determination.

Playground: No specific playground but it’s a huge pine woods so plenty for kids to do!
Restrooms: A few portable toilets in the car park. Not the greatest facility but it’s better than a bush.
Dog-friendliness: Great site for dogs but care is needed around the water as it’s incredibly fast flowing.” – James Turpin

Clatteringshaws Loch in the winter is like stepping into a magical story. The entire area is covered in a snowy blanket, with a loch (lake) frozen in some parts, reflecting the stunning snowy Galloway hills. You will see some spectacular views on your walk! Most animals will be hibernating during the winter season but a little fairy told me that you can sometimes see beautiful red deer roaming the area!

Psst… You may even be able to see the Northern Lights and Milky Way from Clatteringshaws Loch!

“Very cool place to wander around plenty to see and do around here.” Martin Flaherty

Rushmere Country Park is a must-visit – especially in winter! The trees are all frosted the lakes look like something out of a winter postcard, and the trails? They are peacefully quiet and even more enchanting. Much like Clatteringshaws Loch, make sure to look out for some deer or foxes on your walk! With over 400 acres of woodland, heathland and meadows, each visit promises delightful discoveries.

Psst… You can discover fairy doors and a Giant’s chair on the Sculpture Trail! Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for any fairies! I hear they are a little shy but love shiny stones. 

“A wonderful place to walk. Miles of well defined signposted paths. Children friendly trails. Great for dogs with plenty of dog bins. Warm & friendly cafe. Plenty of picnic tables” Roger Blofeld

Yes, I know Christmas is over but what’s better than taking a stroll through the quaint village featured in The Holiday? I think it fits the winter theme and if it’s good enough for Cameron Diaz then it’s good enough for me!

Shere is a picturesque village with frosty fields, tranquil woodlands and a ”quintessentially English’ vibe. It’s like stepping into your very own Hollywood movie! This circular route might be a bit shorter than the other walks on this list, but it leaves you extra time to pop into the charming cafes and pubs for a leisurely lunch stop.

“Great circular walk. Not muddy and a mixture of fields and woodland. I recommend taking a short detour to the lookout point – you’ll see the sign on a gate in a wooded part.” – Natalie Hamilton-Martin

Angler’s Country Park, West Yorkshire is the perfect stop for your next winter walk! It’s like stepping into a wonderland with frost-kissed grass and trees all around. Amidst the beautiful backdrop is a trail inspired by a fantastic children’s book. The Room on the Broom Trail takes walkers through the beautiful park with fun activities for kids and sculptures to discover along the way!

Angler’s Country Park also provides facilities such as picnic areas, bird hides, and accessible paths for everyone to enjoy.

Did you know there is a Gruffalo hidden in EVERY book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler? (author and illustration of The Room on the Broom)

“Gorgeous park… Gorgeous trails and lake, with a beautiful gift shop and quaint, simple, yet effective cafe. Strongly recommended for anyone, especially doggie parents!” – Steven Garnett

Have you heard of Birmingham’s hidden gem? Sutton Park is one of the largest urban parks in Europe and has the most breathtaking walks and views that are set to leave you in awe. Explore hidden corners, unearth pockets of history and discover incredible views. With frost-kissed heathlands, ancient woodlands dusted with snow, and the cosiest lakeside cafes, Sutton Park is the perfect spot for a chilly day out.

Psstt… Be sure to keep your eyes peeled as you walk through the park, you may just find some Wild Exmoor Ponies! They are insanely adorable!!

“Wide open spaces, six lakes, cafe, coffee shop and restaurants, ideal for a family day out, I love going there.” – Dave Mogg

Lyme Park Estate is where history meets natural beauty. Step back in time as you wander through the elegant stately home. Feel like you’re right out of an Austen novel as you stroll through the estate grounds, which include a deer park, a Victorian garden and a reflecting lake. Marvel at the beauty of Lyme Park Estate as it is lightly dusted with frost and snow, creating a scene out of those classic novels! I can 100% recommend going in the winter, there is something so magical the estate and gardens being covered in frost.

Fun Fact! Lyme Park Estate was the inspiration for Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice! The BBC even shot the Pride and Prejudice mini-series with Keira Knightly and Colin Firth. Swoon! 

*Please double check the opening times for the Estate House (the Garden and Park are open)

“Lots of options for walks, great for kids and historical interest. Lyme has the usual National Trust facilities for food and there is plenty of parking though beware on sunny days / bank holidays it does get very busy.
The house has many treasures and some trail activities and dressing up for the kids (in the old nursery room).

The gardens are beautiful for a picnic in summer with a colourful ‘rhododendron walk’.
There are great views of Manchester and the Cheshire plain from the hill above the main house. You may well see a herd of deer wandering around the grounds too!” – Tim J.

Tŷ Mawr Country Park is located in Wrexham and shows off breathtaking views of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and the arches of the Cefn Viaduct. During the winter, the landscape turns into a picture-perfect scene, perfect for snowy walks, fun picnics and whimsi-chill woodland and forest trails. With accessible routes, a dedicated kids area and a visitor centre, your winter walk will be filled with adventure, fun and winter magic!

Top tip! Make sure to stop by Linden’s Coffee Barn for some delicious homemade cakes and cosy hot drinks! Just what you need on a winter walk!

“Great country park for a scenic walk with a chance to see trains, the river and even animals. Perfect for families and only £1 to park. Plus a lovely cafe and toilets making it an ideal morning or afternoon out. Would highly recommend.” – Neil Owen

This would not be a winter walks list without including Snowdonia (see what I did there!) Snowdonia, nestled in the heart of North Wales, transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland when snow blankets its rugged landscape! The park, with its forests, waterfalls and lakes offers a serene winter beauty that leaves you in a state of wonder! Don’t forget to explore the cosy villages too, they are just as beautiful! Snowdonia in winter is all about enjoying snowy peaks, exploring frosty paths, and taking in the beauty of this magical place.

Here are some of the best Winter Walks in Snowdonia: Lon Las Ogwen through Nant Ffrancon, Lon Gwyrfai, Llyn Padarn Circular, Aber Falls and Cwm Idwal.

Did you know Snowdonia has 1500 miles of public footpaths?

“A must do experience, at one with nature experiencing amazing scenery that will blow your mind. A visit for all ages, me and my family all had a wonderful experience” – Ryann Allen

Glenariff Forest Park, nestled in County Antrim, transforms into a serene winter retreat when snow blankets its trails and trees! This park offers a tranquil escape with snowy paths, creating a picturesque setting for peaceful walks and a touch of nature’s magic! Remember to check out the Waterfall walkway – for a scenic walk guaranteed to leave you in awe. There is something so wonderful about a frozen waterfall!

Fun fact! Glenariff is known as the “Queen of the Glens” (a glen is a narrow valley in between gently sloped sides)

“Stunning walls, clean facilities and amazing view. Worth the trip” – Brian Hayes

1. Snowy Scavenger Hunt: create a list of winter-themed items to find on your walk, like pinecones, animal tracks and types of trees

2. Capture Winter Moments: Bring a camera or phone to capture those beautiful landscapes dusted in snow.

3. Build a snowman: If there’s enough snow, why not build your very own mini snowman?

4. Hot Drink Break: Bring along a thermos of hot chocolate and enjoy a cosy drink break during your walk.

5. Nature Art: Use pinecones, twigs and rocks to create beautiful art in the snow or around the area!

6. Picnics: Pack some winter-friendly food and snacks like soup (in a thermos), sandwiches, seasonal fruit and cake (cake is an all-year-round food but definitely works for a winter snack!) for a cosy picnic.

7. Nature Sounds: Listen to the sounds of nature – crunching snow, rustling branches, birds, running water etc.

8. Spot the animal: most animals are hibernating during the winter but you can see some very cute animals on their own winter walk! Try to spot as many as you can.

9. Animal Detectives: Look for animal tracks in the snow and try to identify what creatures have been out and about.

10. Winter Storytime:  Start a winter-themed story with everyone contributing one sentence or paragraph to continue the story!

1. Pack a picnic! (there are loads of cute cafes and pubs on these walks but how fun does a winter picnic sound?)

2. Dress for the weather. Make sure to pack your Wellies or hiking boots, and warm clothing like hats, fleeces, and gloves. Oh and don’t forget your waterproofs!

3. Pack plenty of snacks. Walking is a hungry business and you might just need some extra fuel on your winter adventure!

4. Check the Weather. Make sure to dress accordingly and be prepared for any changes in weather conditions.

5. Bring a Portable charger. You never know when you will need to use your phone or the maps.

6. Stay hydrated! Even though it’s cold outside, it’s still important to drink plenty of water during your walk.