Whether you are walking, cycling or riding, the South Downs Way provides great vistas, a well-marked route and plenty of small villages and county towns along the way offering fireside pubs and walkers’ accommodation. On the path, you will follow chalk streams, rivers, seaside, hills and ancient woods. With great transport links from London and the greater rail network, this special part of the country is one of the most popular places to walk.
Archives: Discovery Pages
Ravenber Way: Accommodation on the route
The Ravenber Way guide book
The guide book provides a full description, from West to East, with hand drawn maps of the route. It also outlines alternative routes. The route traced on the map is 210 miles, but with alternative routes, visiting interesting places and leaving the route to reach overnight accommodation you could walk considerably more.
The Ravenber Way route is long and takes most people around fourteen days to complete. It is wild and remote in places, and not way-marked. Good map reading skills are required and there are many stretches where you may not see another walker for hours. Accommodation is available on route, but limited in places – so always book well in advance.
As well as wild mountains and moorlands the route passes through lovely towns and villages, with many historical places of interest not too far from the route. You may want to stay a couple of nights in one place, or just take a couple of hours off the march, to enjoy where you are.
Each end of the Ravenber Way is connected to the rail network, and Hexham at the centre also has a train station. There is also a mainline train station in Penrith, 5 miles off the route.
Route suggestions for walking the Ravenber Way
Day 1
Coast to Coast on the Ravenber Way begins in Ravenglass on the West coast of Cumbria. Leave Ravenglass beside Walls Castle and head along Eskdale to Eskdale Green. Head into Miterdale Forest, climb Irton Fell and proceed along the ridge to Whin Rigg and Illgill Head. Head downhill to Wasdale Head for the night. The guidebook provides an alternative route from Rabbit How which ends in Great Langdale and misses the Whin Rigg section – head up Eskdale to Boot and to Great Langdale where you can stay at the Great Langdale Bunkhouse – next to the New Dungoen Gyhll pub.
Day 2
Unless you took an alternative route to Great Langdale then you’ll begin day two at Wasdale Head. Leave towards Burnthwaite, follow alongside Lingmell Beck and ascend to Sty Head. Pass Sprinkling Tarn and then Angle Tarn and follow Rossett Gill then the Cumbria Way into Great Langdale where you’ll pass the Great Langdale Bunkhouse. Further along in Elterwater, and a few minutes from the route, is the Elterwater Hostel. Continue on to Skelwith Bridge and Tarn Foot, near Loughrigg Tarn to Ambleside via Ivy Crag and Deer Hows. Walkers wishing to stay at either The Old Café Bunkhouse or Rydal Hall Bunkhouse could bear left at Loughrigg Tarn and follow Loughrigg Terrace, past Rydall Water, to Rydall.
Day 3
Leave Ambleside along Lake Road and head over Wansfell Pike to arrive in Troutbeck. Leave via Ing Lane and along Hagg Gill to ascend High Street – the highest point of the Ravenber Way. Staying high the route passes High Raise, Red Crag and Loadpot Hill before gently descending along the Roman Road into Askham. There are no hostels ont his website for this section, but Wayfarers Independent Hostel is located 5 miles away in Penrith.
Day 4
Leave the pretty village of Askham along the Windermere and Ullswater road, passing Askham Hall and Lowther Castle on the way to Hackthorpe, Melkinthorpe and Great Strickland. About halfway through the day the route passes through Morland and Greengill Barn, should you wish to break up this long section. Reagill Village Hall is located four miles south of the route and would also provide a similar break. The route continues through King’s Meaburn, Bolton and Long Marton before arriving in Dufton.
Day 5
There is very little between Dufton and Garrigill apart from hills. Leave Dufton along a track leading to the Pennie Way, then follow the Pennine Way over Green Fell and Knock Fell. Follow Trout Beck to cross the River Tees. Pass Tyne Head and then downhill along River South Tyne to Garrigill and Garrigill Village Hall. The guidebook provides an alternative route, prudent in bad weather, to avoid the summit of Knock Fell.
Day 6
Follow the path to Dodbury and above Garrigill Burn then cross a vast area of disused mines to Nenthead with Mill Cottage Bunkhouse, which may be a suitable stopover by extending day 5. There is also Haggs Bank Bunkhouse and Camping a short distance away in Nentsberry. From Nenthead head towards Dykeheads, cross moorlands to Coalcleugh – Carrshield Camping Barn is less than a mile from the route in Carrshield. Cross Carrshield Moor to Philipson’s Fold and descend to Swinhope Mill. Pass through White Ridge and Burnfoot to The Dodd, then a short stroll in to Allenheads. The guidebook provides an alternative route from Philipson’s Fold to Allendale Town along Isaac’s Tea Trail for Allendale Bunkhouse and a significantly reduced moorland stretch for day 7.
Day 7
Today passes the halfway point! Leave Allenheads via The Dodd, follow alongside River East Allen and cross it before Low Huntwell. Cross the moor to Green Hill and follow Broad Way past Pikeley Rigg, Hangman Hill and Watson’s Pike to Kings Law. Head around the plantation then pass Rye Hill, Low Rawgreen, High Staples and Juniper to Diptonmill. Then pick up A Pennie Journey downhill to Hexham. There are no hostels ont his website for this section, but if you stayed in Allendale Town after day 6 then you may have the legs to reach Newborough Bunkhouse which is on the route 9.5km (6 miles) into section 8.
If you are walking the Ravenber Way in two visits then, as Hexham is just past the halfway point and connected by rail to Newcastle and Carlisle, then this is a good break point.
Day 8
Leave Hexham to the North, cross the train line and head alongside the River Tyne. Cross the river at Bridge End and head in to Newborough – and past Newborough Bunkhouse. Pass Newborough Lodge and cross open country to Hardian’s wall – Greencarts Bunkhouses and Camping is just over a mile away. Head west along the wall before, crossing more open country past Slaterfield Fell, Pit Wood and Low Moralee, then descend through Warksburn Wood to Wark.
Day 9
Leave Wark by crossing the former toll bridge over the North Tyne to the village of Birtley, then pass Pittland Hills and Tone Hall to Tone Inn. Cross the Roman road, head through a conifer plantation and turn left to pass Hawick Woods to Ferneyrigg. Head to Nether Pike then cross moorland and pass Wishaw Plantation, Green Wisp, Blaxter Cottages and Ravenscleugh to Elsdon.
Day 10
Today is remote with lots of woodland. Leave Elsdon by Crown Farm and enter Harwood Forest by East Todholes – buried deep in the forest is the remote Chartners Farm Off the Grid. Follow the path through Whitlees, Harry’s Wood, Gunner’s Box and Redpath before picking up St Oswald’s Way to finally leave the forest at Croquet Cairn. Stay on St Oswald’s Way and cross the moors past Spylaw, Whittondean and Whitton to Rothbury.
Day 11
Leave Rothbury via Brewery Lane towards Addycombe, then pass Ship Crag and High Wood to Thropton. Head along the River Coquet to Warton, pass Low Trewhitt Cottages and continue to Sheperton. Cross River Coquet, and then back again by paddling (flood alternatives are suggested in the guidebook). Pass The Peels and Harbottle to Alwinton.
Day 12
Leave Alwinton along Clennell Street, pass many ancient settlements, then Wholehope Knowe, Saughy Hill to Nettlehope Hill. Head through the forest to pass Well Cleugh and Hazely Law to the border ridge where the route meets the Pennine Way. Follow the Pennine Way to Kings Seat, Green Gair, Hanging Stone, Auchope Cairn and Red Cribs before descending to Mounthooly – and the Mounthooly Bunkhouse. Continue past Fleehope, Whitehall and Hethpool then follow College Burn to Westnewton Bridge. The guidebook provides an alternative route to Wooler – for this leave the main route before Auchop Cairn to Cairn Hill, The Cheviot, Scald Hill to Broadstruther. Follow Broadstruthers Burn to Carey Burn then cross moorland to Wooler Common and through the Kenterdale Hill picnic spot to Wooler – and Wooler Youth Hostel. From Wooler head to Westnewton Bridge to pick up the next section of the route.
Day 13
Leave on a track between Westnewton and Westnewton Bridge and cross the disused railway to Lanton Mill. Continue to Crookhouse, around Coldside Hill, through Flodden, around Flodden Hill and on to Crookham Bridge. Continue to Heatherslaw, then cross the River Till to Etal. Follow the river until it meets the River Tweed and then follow the Tweed downstream. Leave the river at Bow Well Farm to Norham.
Day 14
Follow the footpath along the river Tweed and then up to visit Horncliffe. Head back to the riverside footpath and continue to the Berwick Bridge. Head right after the bridge to Quay Walls and then Wellington Terrace and past Coxon’s Tower to Pier Road. Behind Pier Road is a car park and a good spot to dip your toe in the water to complete the Ravenber Way. Eat Sleep Lindisfarrne is 14km (8.7 miles) away, and provides a great base to explore Holy Island.
You can buy the Ravenber Way guide book HERE
New Hostels
From rustic country hostels to chic city-centre boutiques, here are some of the best newly opened hostels around the UK.
Travelling on a budget or exploring the wilder areas of the UK’s National Parks, hostels and bunkhouses are popular ways of seeing the UK on a budget.
Eco hostels : Green accommodation in sustainable bunkhouses and hostels
Why are hostels and bunkhouses the eco-friendly choice?
By their nature, holidays in hostels and bunkhouses have a low C02 footprint. This is because:
– The shared aspects of the accommodation mean more people are making use of the same resources, which makes the accommodation more sustainable. There are shared lounges, kitchens and gardens, and some guests choose to stay in shared dormitory-style sleeping rooms, although private rooms are also available. This reduces the energy that is put into furnishing and heating the whole hostel.
-The self-catering facilities allow you to source your food locally, a great way to celebrate the region you are visiting.
-The outdoorsy nature of independent hostels means the types of activities you will be enjoying while staying at a hostel tend to be low carbon. Rather than days out that produce a lot of waste such as shopping or eating out. At independent hostels, you are encouraged to enjoy environmentally friendly activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling.
Which eco-friendly hostels and bunkhouses go above and beyond?
-A quarter of the hostels and bunkhouses in the Independent Hostels UK network have a green ethos and a quarter of these have signed up for the Green Tourism Business Scheme. Such as Palace Farm Hostel in Kent which has been awarded the Gold Green Tourism award ten times!
-Some hostels provide a Green Discount for people who arrive on foot or by public transport. This is a great way to encourage walkers, cyclists, and the use of public transport. You can find a list of these with their details on our Sustainable Travel page.
-Many of the hostels in our network create their own renewable energy on-site or use 100% renewable energy providers. For example, Houghton North Farm in Northumberland is now heated by a wood pellet biomass boiler and the electricity is supplied by their wind turbine.
-Many hostels have renovated their properties to become more efficient. For example, Elterwater Hostel in the Lake District has installed double glazing and thermal lined curtains to retain heat in their hostel.
-Eco-hostels know the importance of reusing, this is why the hostels in our network often communicate to share a surplus of items such as chairs or beds. Nothing in good condition gets thrown away in an eco-hostel!
-Some hostels provide bike rentals as an eco-friendly transportation method for the duration of your holiday. Like Old Brooder Bunkhouse in Suffolk.
-Hostels provide metal cutlery and ceramic plates in their self-catering kitchens. No need for single-use plastics here!
Hostels with private rooms
Accommodation with private rooms
For many, private rooms are a necessity when it comes to traveling in hostels. While some of the more hardcore backpacker crowd might disagree, it’s becoming more and more accepted that a lot of hostels now offer these rooms. The reasons for having a private room vary however the perks remain the same throughout.
Why are private rooms so popular?
As the word implies private rooms offer a deal more privacy than the standard dorm room, invaluable for the light sleepers who can’t sleep without total silence. Families also benefit from having a little bit more room and their own space as children sometimes need their own space (parents need their own space to relax and unwind as well) and having your own room offers that where a dorm can’t. Couples traveling the country together who want their own space will love the privacy of having their own room offers in a way that a dorm can’t.
Novice travelers who may be hosteling for the first time can find the idea of staying in a dorm full of strangers daunting or off-putting. Having their own room allows those unsure about the hosteling experience to dip their toe in the community atmosphere while being able to retreat to their own space should they want to. The welcoming atmosphere and being surrounded by like-minded, friendly people is what keeps people coming back to hostels year after year, private rooms are a great way to introduce people to that.
All the benefits of a hotel with hostel prices
Having your own room in a hostel offers affordable accommodation similar to a hotel but with all the benefits of a hostel. Many will have adjoining en suites allowing you to be completely separate when you want to be.
The use of the self-catering kitchens and social areas makes the whole experience much more personal. Just because you’re in your own room doesn’t mean you have to stay in it!
The friendly atmosphere of hostels is what keeps people coming back year after year. Meeting new people and hearing their experiences is still as easy to do as in a dorm. Socialize over breakfast or by the fire in the evening. All the while knowing you can retire to your cozy room when you’re ready for bed.
Treat yourself to a bit of luxury
While bunk beds are tried and tested it’s always nice to treat yourself every now and then. With many of the rooms offering double beds, they’re perfect for getting a good night’s sleep. Just what you’ll need after a day out exploring some of the UK’s best locations.
King Alfred’s Way: hostels along the route
King Alfred’s Way is a 350km circular off-road cycle route running along chalk downlands and ridges and connecting some of England’s most iconic sites.
Despite being easily accessible from cities in the south of England, you quickly escape from everyday life to immerse yourself in the wide-open views across waves of rolling countryside.
The name of the trail is inspired by Alfred the Great, who ruled the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Wessex. Using parts of the Ridgeway and South Downs Way, it is ideal for gravel bikes and can be ridden over a few days as a bikepacking trip with some great hostels along the way.
It also connects with the Thames Path and the North Downs Way riders’ route, so you can combine multiple routes into a longer ride.
Created by Cycling UK the King Alfred’s Way is the beginning of a network of long-distance off-road routes being planned across the length and breadth of Great Britain. Find out more about Cycling UK HERE. And you can download their guide to King Alfred’s Way HERE.
Hadrians Wall Walk: accommodation in bunkhouses and hostels
Hadrian’s Wall walk accommodation
You are spoilt for choice with some amazing places to stay during your hike, from idyllic, secluded, and rural bunkrooms to bustling, self-catering hostels. There is a place to rest your head at every step of the journey. Not to mention the communal rooms to relax in and meet other travellers in and the self-catering kitchens.
We know the importance of conserving your energy for when it matters most. This is why all the hostels and bunkhouses on this map are very close to the wall itself. This means no extra walking when all you want to do is have a hearty meal and a lie-down!
Our hostels are no strangers to Hadrian’s Wall walkers, this is why many of them provide evening meals and/or breakfasts, are dog friendly and provide bedding.
Hadrians Cycleway : Accommodation in Hostels and Bunkhouses
Hadrian’s Cycleway accommodation
You are spoilt for choice with some amazing places to stay along your ride, from a traditional farmhouse welcome to a city centre hostel. There is a great selection of places to rest your head. Not to mention the communal rooms; great places to relax and meet other travellers.
We know the importance of conserving your energy for when it matters most. Six of the hostels and bunkhouses on this map are right on the route with a few others a short ride away. This means no extra pedalling when all you want to do is have a hearty meal and a lie-down!
Our hostels are no strangers to Hadrian’s Wall walkers, this is why many of them provide evening meals and/or breakfasts, and generally provide bedding (always best to check this).
West Highland Way: Accommodation in Bunkhouses and Hostels
Accommodation along the West Highland Way.
The West Highland Way is generally walked from South to North, starting just north of Glasgow at Milngavie and finishing in Fort William in the Highlands. The details of bunkhouses and hostels providing self-catering accommodation along the route are shown in this order.
You can see the location of other hostels in this area on our Scottish Map.
Mike Emmett has told us the story of his walk along the West Highland Way and this is included below. Mike bought a package that organised his week’s walking trip, booking accommodation in hotels and transporting luggage. However, it is possible to walk using a light backpack and stay in a mixture of hostels and other accommodation.
Here is Mike’s story.
Eight of us, aged 66 to 72 decided this year’s Scottish adventure would be the West Highland Way.
Day 1 West Highland Way: Milngavie to Drymen, 12 miles
We started at the official West Highland Way obelisk in Milngavie. The first part of the walk was on the old railway line, cleverly converted. We went off track a short distance to visit the ruined Mugdock Castle.
In spite of the rain, heavy at times, we trudged on the 12 miles to Drymen along woodland paths, more railway and finally a few miles on road, which can be hard walking.
Day 2 West Highland Way: Drymen to Rowardennan, 15 miles
A better day, only showers. Woodland and moorland for the first half with many a short up and down. We climbed Conic Hill, a local beauty spot and magnet for short-distance walkers, to get a great view of Loch Lomond below us. Tea and cakes in Balmaha then onward along the path beside the loch to Rowardennen where we spent the night. (A party of Danes could not understand our accents, most of us being from Tyneside!).
Day 3 West Highland Way: Rowardennen to Beinglas Farm, 13 miles.
For me, this was the hardest day. The path was initially good to Inversnaid Hotel. After that a narrow path close to the shore of Loch Lomond. It was very rocky in places, care is needed and some short scrambles too. Final section across fields to Beinglas where we stayed the night. We visited the ancient pub “The Drovers Inn”, dating back to Rob Roy. It had not been decorated since he was there.
Day 4 West Highland Way: Beinglas to Tyndrum, 14 miles
The first half, to Crianlarich, was a mixture of moorland, woodland, and muddy tracks. It rained a bit too. We went off the West Highland Way for tea at Crianlarich railway station. The second half of the day took us through several miles of coniferous plantation, which can be boring but this one was not too bad. Out of the forest, we passed St Fillans abbey (ruined). The Lochan of the Sword where Robert the Bruce, according to myth, threw his sword after defeat in battle. Finally, a footpath brought us to Tyndrum where we spent the night.
Day 5 West Highland Way: Tyndrum to Inveroran Hotel, 10 miles
Getting deeper into the Highlands the walk was getting more interesting. After 7 miles we stopped at the Bridge of Orchy hotel for tea and scones (honest). Moving on over moorland we came in sight of the isolated Inveroran hotel, quite isolated (No WiFi!!) but in a beautiful setting below the Black Mount and close to Loch Tulla. It suited us, sitting in the sunshine enjoying a quiet pint and watching other walkers come down the hill to the hotel. (Dorothy Wordsworth, travelling with William, was not as impressed apparently).
Day 6 West Highland Way: Inveroran to Kings House, 10 miles
Sadly the day started with a slight thunderstorm and rain, which ensured the mountains were all but invisible. As the morning progressed the cloud lifted and we walked on a good track built by Thomas Telford in 1803. We walked across part of Rannoch Moor, desolate uninhabited land of bog and lochan. But the views were unbeatable, as we left the Black Mount the mountains of Glencoe appeared in all their glory. A really magnificent area. A herd of deer, females with their young, came very close.
Day 7 West Highland Way: Kingshouse to Kinlochleven, 8 miles
A short walk parallel to the road that goes down Glencoe before heading up “The Devil’s Staircase” a steep zig-zag path that is also an old military road. It reaches 1789 feet, the highest point on the WHW, and is another popular short walk, up to the shoulder and down again! The view from the top was well worth the effort (which wasn’t too bad). A grand panorama of the Mamores to the north and looking back at the mountains that line Glencoe. It seemed a long walk down to Kinlochleven. In spite of the old aluminium smelter and hydropower station, Kinlochleven is quite a pretty place. One of the old buildings has been converted into Britain’s ice climbing centre, there’s also a microbrewery.
Day 8 West Highland Way: Kinlochleven to Fort William, 16 miles
After a short steep climb through woodland, we reached another old /military road that contoured nearly all the way to Glen Nevis. Ben Nevis appeared, initially covered in cloud but that slowly burned off. It was possible to see the steady stream of walkers plodding up the tourist route to the summit of Ben Nevis. We walked down through woodland to Glen Nevis. Sadly, the last couple of miles of the WHW is on a road. We had to walk the length of the high street to get to the official finish and then, surprisingly, we went to the nearest pub to celebrate.
Officially the walk is 96 miles, we clocked up a few extra. One of the pleasures of the walk is the camaraderie. Not just between the eight of us. We often walked in pairs, sometimes alone. But every day we met groups of people also doing the West Highland Way. Most of them were Europeans, some Americans, and some Canadians. We always exchanged greetings and enquiries as to how was it going etc. Some people, mostly young, were doing the walk carrying full packs, tents sleeping bags, etc. Ouch. It was a great experience, looking back I enjoyed every step in its own way and much to my surprise, I didn’t even get one blister.
Another inspiring account of walking the West Highland Way can be found on the Walking Englishman’s website. He walked the WHW route from North to South as part of a 3-month walk of the full length of Great Britain. Full details of the route and other resources can be found on the LDWA website.
Wales Coast Path: Hostels & bunkhouse accommodation
If you are looking for accommodation on the Wales Coast Path, Hostels and bunkhouses are the perfect choice. There are Independent Hostels along the whole of the Wales Coast Path route from Chepstow all the way round to Llandudno, meaning that the majority of the route can be walked using hostels and bunkhouses as accommodation.
Modern hostels and bunkhouses often provide bed linen so you don’t need to bring a sleeping bag (check each accommodation’s details). With self-catering and catered options (and many hostels and bunkhouses being close to a pub) there are catering options for all budgets. For those cycling parts of the Wales coast path route many hostels provide cycle storage to keep your bike safe whilst you have a great night’s sleep.
After a day’s walking you will find a warm welcome in all of our accommodation on the Wales Coast Path. Details of the route are available on the LDWA website.
The Wales Coast path joins up with Offa’s Dyke to create a circular route right round the edge of Wales, by using Independent hostels along with YHA hostels and B&Bs one can walk the whole length.
South West Coast Path: Accommodation in hostels & bunkhouses
South West Coast Path Map
The S W Coast Path is one of the most popular walking routes in the world. At 630 miles long, it is the UK’s longest National Trail. The route is maintained by the South West Coast Path Association. With help from trustees and members, they are able to restore parts of the path that are affected by storms. The Association also improves the path for walkers and wildlife alike.
The Southwest Coastal Path begins in Minehead, Exmoor, and follows the undulating North Devon coastline. It then plunges into Cornwall, before dipping back into South Devon, and ending up in Poole Harbour in Dorset. It passes through many beautiful tourist sites such as Ilfracombe, Tintagel, St Ives, Penzance and Falmouth.
The route is clearly signposted by an acorn symbol, just like all National Trails. The path has large sculptures marking the beginning, middle and end of the route. Why not take a picture in front of all three to document your journey?
This stunning route has become more popular since the publication of the bestselling book, The Salt Path by Raynor Winn. The Salt Path is a memoir about a married couple who walk the South West Coastal Path after having lost their home and discovering that the husband has a degenerative illness. This inspiring true story of hope and the healing powers of walking and the natural world has been made in to a feature film. Also called The Salt Path, the film is due to be released in 2024.
Pembrokeshire Coast Path: Accommodation in Hostels and Bunkhouses
What is the Pembrokeshire Coast path?
Opened in 1970, the Pembrokeshire Coast Path was the first national trail in Wales. It is an exhilarating and inspirational walk as it passes an incredible 58 beaches and 14 harbours! Handily, the entire length of the route is covered by the Pembrokeshire coastal bus service. This is because, a fair proportion of the route crosses areas that are scarcely populated. This regular bus service is very popular with walkers ferrying them to and from their overnight lodgings and means you are never too far from civilisation.
Why walk the Pembrokeshire Coast path?
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path runs for 186 miles along the most breath-taking coastline in Britain. Stretching between St Dognaels in the north to Amroth in the South, the route crosses a wonderful variety of coastal landscapes. You will walk along rugged cliff tops, descend to sheltered coves, cross wide open beaches, and meandering estuaries. As well as offering a wonderful variety of breath-taking scenery, the area is rich in bird life and coastal flowers. If you are lucky, you may also spot seals and wild ponies. On average the Pembrokeshire Coast Path takes 10 to 15 days to complete.
How long does the Pembrokeshire Coast Path take to complete?
The Pembrokeshire Coast Path (also known as the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path) is quite a challenging route. It takes on average 10-15 days to walk from end to end. The ascents and descents amount to 35,000ft, which is roughly equivalent to climbing Everest. So, a certain amount of pre-walk training is recommended. The route is very well waymarked, but as always it is a good idea to take a guidebook and map.
C2C Wainwright’s Coast to Coast Walk: Accommodation in Hostels and Bunkhouses.
Wainwright’s Coast to Coast walk
Wainwright’s Coast to Coast walk is generally walked from West to East, starting on the Cumbrian coast at St Bees Head and finishing on the Yorkshire Coast at Robing Hoods Bay. This page gives details of the accommodation in this West to East order. We also have pages on this website showing accommodation along the C2C Cycle Route and C2C Mountain Bike Route.
Suggested itinerary for walking Wainwright’s Coast to Coast in 12 days staying at Independent Hostels and bunkhouses
We would love to hear from anyone who walks this itinerary. Get in touch and tell us your views at [email protected] or use our contact form.
Day One
The first day’s walk of 14 miles from St Bees Head is typically completed at Ennerdale Bridge. Following the independent hostel itinerary, you need to walk a further 4 miles along the route to reach the small isolated hamlet of Ennerdale. Which makes the first day 19 miles. This extra effort is well rewarded at LOW GILLERTHWAITE FIELD CENTRE where an evening can be spent by the open fire or enjoying a BBQ in the stunning isolation of this valley. The centre’s bunkhouse-style accommodation straddles Wainwright’s Coast to Coast walk and welcomes individual walkers and groups, there are small bunk rooms and self-catering facilities. Alternative accommodation for your first evening would be WILD WOOL BARN which is closer to Ennerdale Bridge than Low Gillerthwaite Field Centre, lying just north of Ennerdale Water about 1 mile from the path.
Day Two
starts 4 miles ahead of the normal itinerary making a 10 mile walk to Rosthwaite. Small parties and larger groups can choose to make a detour off the Trail along the popular valley of Borrowdale for 1.7 miles to the isolated High House, giving a total day’s mileage of just under 12 miles. HIGH HOUSE provides bunkhouse-style self-catering accommodation and small bunkrooms. It has an overnight charge of £145 which covers a group of 1 to 26 people! An alternative to High House is BOWDERSTONE BUNKHOUSE, a small groups-only bunkhouse which lies around 1/2 mile north of the C2C route. Leave the route at Rosthwaite and walk along the road for a bit, then take a footpath that leads you to this enchanting bunkhouse. If you are walking in a group of 5-12 Bowderstone would make an ideal stop-over.
Day Three
follow the route from Rosthwaite to Grasmere (9 miles) then head south for approx 2 miles until you get to the village of Rydal. Here you have a choice of independent hostels. There is RYDAL HALL which offers a groups-only bunkhouse (sleeps up to 26), a campsite, eco pods or B&B in the main hall. Alternatively, the OLD CAFE BUNKROOM may suit you better. There is a self-contained micro bunk room, with one set of bunks, a small kitchenette and dining area. Bunkhouse guests are welcome to enjoy the facilities of the main guest house where B&B rooms can also be booked.
Another option for your third night’s accommodation is ELTERWATER HOSTEL. Leave the path at Grasmere and head southwest. Some careful map reading will take you to Elterwater and the comfortable hostel geared up to the needs of walkers.
Day Four
From Grasmere the day begins with the climb up to the saddle above Grisedale Tarn and descent along Grisedale Valley to Patterdale, a total of 8 miles. SHEPHERDS CROOK BUNKHOUSE is in Patterdale five minutes walk from the route.
Day Five
from Patterdale to Shap is 16 miles and usually takes about 6-8 hours. Walkers are rewarded at the end of the day by a stay at the very comfortable NEW ING LODGE. New Ing Lodge, high up on the Cumbrian fells, has warm carpeted rooms, a log burner, a bar, and delicious evening meals. A great place to relax and exchange stories with other walkers.
An alternative stopover on day 5 is REAGILL VILLAGE HALL. This would make the day’s walk a total of about 19 miles. Leave the route at Shap and walk for another 3 miles to the sleepy village of Reagil
Day Six
from Shap to Kirkby Stephen is 20 miles. A longer walk than the previous day but over much easier ground. KIRKBY STEPHEN HOSTEL is in the centre of the village and provides a warm welcome to walkers. It has rooms for 2 to 8 people and a range of restaurants, cafés, pubs and takeaways on the doorstep. There are also food shops to stock up on food. As well as self-catering if you would rather stay in and enjoy the hostel chatter.
Day Seven
Kirkby Stephen to Reeth (21 miles) then stay on the Walk for a further half a mile beyond Reeth to Low Fremington. Here join the road to Fremington where the Dales Bike Centre (formally in the independent hostel network) provides accommodation. Depending on which guide book you read Dales Bike Centre is either exactly on route at Fremington or 100 metres off route if looking at the footpath near Grinton. It’s close by regardless. The next morning you can rejoin the route just down the road at Grinton Bridge. Total days mileage is 22 miles.
Day Eight
is 18 miles to BROMPTON ON SWALE BUNKBARN, 3 miles east of Richmond and less than half a mile from the path. Brompton on Swale Bunkbarn provides duvets and sheet sleeping bags that can be hired. Cooking facilities are available (bring £1 for the meter). Ideal for lightweight walkers. Please note that Richmond Camping Barn, which was situated 3 miles west of Richmond is now closed.
Day Nine
has a total distance of 23 miles and ends with a three-quarter mile diversion from the route to reach the next Independent Hostel at COTE GHYLL MILL (also known as Osmotherly Youth Hostel). Follow the route to Ingleby Arncliffe then walk a further two miles along the route to Mount Grace Wood. Using careful map reading, leave the C2C route at a hairpin bend in the path at Mount Grace Wood and take a three-quarter mile diversion via Chapel Wood Farm towards Osmotherly. Turn left when you reach the road and look out for signs for Osmotherly Youth Hostel.
If you decide to continue to Bank House Farm the next day, this involves two very long day walks in a row. So you might like to spend a rest day at Cote Ghyll Mill before embarking on exploring the delights and cafés of the pretty village of Osmotherly. It’s well worth a visit.
Day Ten.
Rejoining the route north of Cod Beck Reservoir, a further 26 miles will take you to a location one mile before Glaisdale, where, using careful map reading, you can leave the route to take a one-mile diversion to BANK HOUSE FARM HOSTEL accommodation. Bank House Farm Hostel has also offered to collect you from Glaisdale and deliver you back the next day for free if you eat in The Arncliffe Arms in Glaisdale. The total mileage for this day is getting on for 28 miles. This includes the walk to the trail from Cote Ghyll Mill and the walk to Bank House Farm.
Another option on day 10 is a night at the YORKSHIRE CYCLE HUB. Situated north of the route in Great Fryup Dale. Once again careful map reading will lead you to this new purpose bunkhouse that is geared up to the needs of walkers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Day Eleven
Back up to the Route for a mile, and then continue to Robin Hood’s bay 19 miles away, where THE OLD SCHOOL HOUSE provides 4 and 6 bedrooms when not booked by a group. Buses from Robin Hood’s Bay are available to take you to SCARBOROUGH HOSTEL. The X93 from Middlesborough goes via Whitby and onto Robin Hood’s Bay. It then passes through Burniston and Clougton before arriving in Scarborough. Either Scalby or the Scarborough Railway Station stops are good for Scarborough Youth Hostel. In the summer months, there are 2 per hour.
Accommodation on Wainwright’s Coast to Coast Walk gets booked quickly and many walkers and cyclists carry heavy camping gear. However, it is possible to walk the route using Independent Hostels.
This article shows the location of the hostels and gives suggested day-by-day itineraries. Full details of the route and other resources can be found on the LDWA website. The Walking Englishman’s website is also very interesting with photographic journals of his two C2C walks. In 1994 he walked it from East to West and in 1999 he walked it again in the opposite direction.
C2C Coast to Coast Cycle Route ( Sea to Sea ) : Accommodation in Hostels and Bunkhouses
Coast to Coast Cycle Route or Sea to Sea: Whitehaven/Workington to Tynemouth/Sunderland
140 miles in length the C2C, Coast to Coast, Sea to Sea cycle route begins in West Cumbria in either Whitehaven or Workington and finishes on the North East coast in either Newcastle or Sunderland. Hostels and bunkhouses are popular choices among participating cyclists. This is because they offer great value for money, group-sized rooms, and a sociable atmosphere where guests can mingle and chat about the day’s events.
By tradition, the route is commenced by dipping the back wheel into the Irish Sea in Cumbria and finished by dipping the front wheel into the waters of the North Sea. The route takes under a week, on average, to complete. Due to the kinder gradients and prevailing winds is usually completed from West to East.
What is the Coast to Coast cycle route or as its oftern called the Sea to Sea Cycle Route?
The route passes through the English Lake District, the Eden Valley, and the Pennines, covering some of Britain’s most magnificent scenery and jaw-dropping landscapes while revealing unspoilt villages and hamlets along the way. Hostels and bunkhouses offer a friendly and convenient place to stay for cyclists, often at half the price of a B&B or a hotel. You will likely meet and exchange stories with other cyclists. Maybe you’ll share a few useful tips when planning your next leg of the route.
The main routes are the Coast to Coast cycle route from Whitehaven, or Workington in the Lake District to Tynemouth or Sunderland on the Durham coast and the Mountain Bike Coast to Coast which takes a similar route over more adventurous terrain. The map shows the locations of youth hostels, independent hostels, and bunkhouses along the traditional Coast to Coast cycle route. It suggests an itinerary for completing the ride using independent hostels for your accommodation. The map only shows hostels and bunkhouses which are easily reached from the route.
The Coast to Coast cycle ride, developed by Sustrans and its partners, has been open since 1994 and is one of England’s most popular cycle challenges. The route utilises National Cycle Network Routes 71, 7, and 14 which travel along the unused railway line, purpose-built cycle paths, unmade roads and quiet lanes.
For details of Wainwrights Coast to Coast Walk look here.
Location of accommodation on the Coast to Coast cycle ride (West to East).
DERWENTWATER INDEPENDENT HOSTEL on the route, 2 miles south of Keswick.
DENTON HOUSE on the route in Keswick
HAWSE END CENTRE Accessible via launch from Keswick on the C2C cycle route
THE WHITE HORSE INN BUNKHOUSE is on the route at Scales, 6 miles beyond Keswick.
BLAKEBECK FARM CAMPING BARN is on the route at Mungrisedale 8 miles beyond Keswick on the C2C route.
WAYFARERS INDEPENDENT HOSTEL is on the route in Penrith. The Coast to Coast cycle route passes 100m from the doorstep. It features secure indoor bike storage, a drying room, and cleaning and maintenance facilities make this an ideal place to stay after a hard day’s ride.
GREENGILL BARN is 6 miles south of the traditional C2C / Sea to Sea cycle route and is included on the Wiggo’s Loop extension of the C2C.
NEW ING LODGE 9 miles from the route at Shap.
ALSTON YOUTH HOSTEL is at Alston and marks the halfway point on the C2C route. It has secure indoor storage for up to 30 bikes and a large drying room.
GARRIGILL VILLAGE HALL BUNKHOUSE is approximately 4 miles from the route south of Alston.
HAGGS BANK BUNKHOUSE AND CAMPING on the route, 5 miles east of Alston in the North Pennines.
CARRSHIELD CAMPING BARN is on the route, 7.5 miles east of Alston in the North Pennines.
NINEBANKS YOUTH HOSTEL is approximately 7 miles from the route in the North Pennines.
BARRINGTON BUNKHOUSE is on the route at Rookhope. Nestled within the north Pennines and close to attractions such as the Beamish open air museum and Killhope mining museum. Barrington Bunkhouse offers cyclists comfortable accommodation in an area of outstanding beauty. The bunkhouse is popular with cyclists riding the Coast to Coast cycle route and walkers on the Weardale way.
EDMUNDBYERS YOUTH HOSTEL is on the route at Edmundbyers.
ALLENDALE BUNKHOUSE approx 10 miles from the ride in the North Pennines.
HOUGHTON NORTH FARM. North West of the C2C as it approaches Tyneside.
Coast to Coast / C2C / Sea to Sea from White Horse Inn Bunkhouse along the gated road to Mungrisedale
Suggest itinerary for cycling the Coast to Coast cycle route in 5 days (West to East)
Starting on the west coast, this challenging route begins in the North Lake District passing Bassenthwaite Lake if you travel the northern route or Loweswater on the southern route. It is possible to get to Workington by train (use National Rail Enquiries Plus Bike service to book your trains).
Day One: Keswick is a great first night stop off after around 30 miles. Two miles south of Keswick on the C2C route is DERWENTWATER INDEPENDENT HOSTEL a perfect overnight choice. The HAWSE END CENTRE is accessible from the C2C route in Keswick via a regular Lake Launch. DENTON HOUSE is on the C2C route in Keswick itself. Six miles beyond Keswick on the C2C route is THE WHITE HORSE INN BUNKHOUSE. A couple of miles further along the route is BLAKEBECK FARM CAMPING BARN on an idyllic Lakeland farm. With stunning views over Blencathra, it is well worth a visit. Full bedding and breakfast are provided for cyclists.
Day Two: The ride today takes you the 20 miles to Penrith where WAYFARERS INDEPENDENT HOSTEL is set up to welcome C2C cyclists, with secure bike storage and bike repair facilities. If you are cycling with a group GREENGILL BARN is nearby and is on the Wiggo’s Loop of the C2C. The award-winning NEW ING LODGE is 9 miles off the coast-to-coast cycle route at Shap.
Day Three: The route takes you on 22 stunning miles to the “Roof of England”. The North Pennines Area of Natural Beauty. After this hard day of cycling the wonderfully isolated HAGGS BANK BUNKHOUSE & CAMPING, right on the C2C route, will provide a comfortable bunk and safe cycle storage, whilst ALSTON YOUTH HOSTEL on the C2C route at Alston has private rooms. For more basic accommodation CARRSHIELD Camping Barn will fit the bill. There, you will need to bring your own bedding and cooking equipment. If you fancy going a little further from the C2C route try GARRIGILL VILLAGE HALL, NINEBANKS Youth Hostel, or ALLENDALE BUNKHOUSE.
Day Four: Today’s ride starts out with an ascent to the NCN’s highest point, Black Hill on the Cumbria/ Northumberland border. From then on the route begins to descend to Rookhope and BARRINGTON BUNKHOUSE. The bunkhouse provides a continental breakfast and meals are available in the nearby Rookhope Inn. EDMUNDBYERS YOUTH HOSTEL is five miles further along the Coast to Coast route and has private rooms or camping.
Day Five: The last day of the Sea to Sea / C2C route is the mostly gravel, former railway track route to Sunderland or via Newcastle to Tynemouth. Accommodation is available north-west of Newcastle at HOUGHTON NORTH FARM ACCOMMODATION.
C2C The Mountain Bike Coast to Coast: Accommodation in hostels and bunkhouses
Accommodation on the Mountain Bike Coast to Coast. The Tim Woodcock Route.
As outlined in Tim Woodcock’s guide: The Coast-to-coast Mountain Bike Route Pack. This route is usually travelled west to east using bridleways and other off-road routes to cross the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors to Robin Hood’s Bay on the Yorkshire Coast. The route is hard work, exhilarating and adrenaline filled! High points include Black Sail and Tan Hill. There are some road sections notably between the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. There is a good choice of independent hostels and bunkhouses along the route and these provide great facilities for mountain bikers. Many have bike storage and wash-down areas and some even have bike repair facilities. The hostels provide self catering accommodation, often with meals available in the accommodation or nearby.
You can find the GPS for the route here.
The Pennine Way: Accommodation
The Pennine Way: An interesting and varied route over 268 miles of stunning upland countryside…..just waiting for you to walk it!
The Independent hostels and bunkhouses listed above provide ideal accommodation along the Pennine Way. All with self-catering facilities, many provide meals and packed lunches on-site or in nearby cafes and pubs.
No longer the basic accommodation of former times, much of this accommodation offers walkers a level of comfort and service ideal after a long day’s walk. They are warm, cosy, comfortable and well-appointed with a choice of private or bunk rooms often with an en suite option. Bed linen and towels are provided.
Designed with walkers in mind, you’ll find drying rooms, storage for muddy boots and friendly communal areas where you can relax and share tales of your day’s adventures in front of a roaring fire. Some places have their own bar so you can enjoy your favourite tipple as you rest your aching bones! As well as your overnight accommodation, some accommodation provides a pick-up or drop-off service and a luggage transfer service.
Do check with each place as to exactly what they are able to provide before you book.
You will find overnight accommodation all along the Pennine Way. There are also some well-placed YHA hostels too (see the YHA website for more information). All the independent hostel and bunkhouses on the Pennine Way is shown on the map at the top of this page. Enlarge it as you wish and click on the red flags for the link to the individual accommodation details. For full details of the progress of the route and other resources look on the LDWA website.
The Pennine Way in the Peak District.
See more on our Peak District Map
Beginning in the quiet village of Edale, the Pennine Way crosses the moorlands of the Kinder Plateau, meanders up into Bronte country and the limestone of the Yorkshire Dales National Park where walkers travel via Malham, Pen-y-Ghent, Great Shunner Fell and Keld.
You have a choice of bunkhouse and hostel accommodation in or around Edale at the start of the Pennine Way.
There is:
Edale Barn Cotefield Farm (<1KM from The Pennine Way path)
Ollerbrook Farm Bunkhouses (<1KM from The Pennine Way path). Two bunkhouses welcome groups and individual walkers, a short walk from the start of the path.
John Hunt Base (4KM from The Pennine Way path)
Hagg Farm Outdoor Centre (4KM from The Pennine Way path)
The Pennine Way in West Yorkshire and the Yorkshire Dales
See more on our Yorkshire and Lancashire Map
One of our hostels, the Hebden Bridge Hostel has been involved in creating the new and much improved ‘Hebden Bridge Loop on the Pennine Way.
Hebden Bridge hosts Em and Dave are keen walkers and helped instigate the new path which was launched in 2015 to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Pennine Way. The new Loop follows footpaths to the heart of the picturesque market town of Hebden Bridge (instead of the ‘A’ road necessitated by the original route) and also takes in the historical village of Heptonstall en route.
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Other independent hostels and bunkhouses offering accommodation along The Pennine Way include:
Earby Friends of Nature House (2KM from The Pennine Way path)
Airton Barn, Friends Meeting House (<1KM from The Pennine Way path). After Airton Barn between Silverdale Road and High Birkwith, the Pennine way climbs Pen-y-Ghent. At 2227ft it is the smallest of Yorkshire’s three peaks.
Malham Tarn Feild Centre on the Malham Tarn National Trust Estate provides B&B accommodation for walkers.
The path descends to the River Tees and follows the river up past High Force and Cauldron Snout waterfalls before rising up and crossing the fells to High Cup, Great Dunfell and Cross Fell. This climb is followed by another descent into Alston, which shares the title of England’s highest market town with Buxton, close to Edale at the southern end of the Way.
The Pennine Way in the North Pennines, the “Roof Of England”
See our North Pennines Map
Hostel and bunkhouse accommodation along the Pennine Way in the North Pennines includes:
Haggs Bank Bunkhouse & Camping (4KM from The Pennine Way path)
Alston Youth Hostel (<1KM from the path). The most directly situated hostel on The Pennine Way in this area.
Slack House Farm (3KM from The Pennine Way path)
Gibbs Hill Bunkhouse (2KM from The Pennine Way path)
After entering the Northumberland National Park the Pennine Way path follows Hadrian’s Wall to Housesteads Fort before veering north again. The last section takes in the Kielder Forest, Redesdale and the uplands of the stunning and isolated Cheviot Hills. Here the path runs along the border with Scotland before crossing it and gradually heading down to Kirk Yetholm. There are a number of loops that can be taken off the main trail and it also links to the Coast to Coast and St Cuthbert’s Way.
Pennine Way in the Scottish Borders and Northumberland
See our Northumberland Map
Hostel and bunkhouse accommodation along the Pennine Way in the North Pennines includes:
Tarset Tor Bunkhouse and Bothies (<1KM from the path)
Mounthooly Bunkhouse (1KM from the path)
Kirk Yetholm Friends of Nature House is situated directly on the path at the end/start of The Pennine Way. The classic stopover!
This article shows the location and details of the hostels and bunkhouses along the trail. Full details of the route and other resources can be found on the LDWA website.
Pennine Journey : Accommodation in hostels, bunkhouses and camping barns
The Pennine Journey takes place in some of the most stunning scenery in Northern England. It was inspired by the walks of Sir Alfred Wainwright who loved walking this part of the country. It takes you through the Yorkshire Dales, County Durham, and along the world-famous Hadrians Wall. The walk has everything, scenery, history, challenge, and lots of amazing Independent Hotels and Bunkhouses along the route.
The route of the Pennine Journey
Most commonly walkers begin in Settle and make their way up through limestone territory, drinking in the Yorkshire peaks. Moving over the wonderful Yorkshire Dales before reaching the moors of County Durham.
Then it is just a little way longer to the goal for Alfred Wainwright’s original walk, Hadrian’s Wall. Walking west for 21 miles you’ll be able to take in some of the sheer scale of this world heritage site. Greenhead is the last stop before heading back down the western side of the Pennines ambling on to Alston there’s lots of opportunity to stop in some wonderful accommodation. Soon after Alston the route reaches its peak as it crosses just below the highest point in the Pennines ( Cross Fell).
From here the walking eases up with a lovely stretch of downhill through the ever gorgeous Eden Valley, moving on to just edging round the Howgills and then back to Settle. Not a bad 247 miles! Throughout the journey, you’re spoilt for choice of lovely hostels to stay in. Picturesque locations and warm welcomes are a given.
Another perk of walking this route is that you will actively be supporting the creation of a new national trail! The people behind the trail have the goal of getting it recognised and by getting out on the trail you’re doing just that.
Pennine Bridleway: Hostels and Bunkhouses
The Pennine Bridleway is a 205 mile (330 Km) long National Trail running through the Pennines. It stretches from Derbyshire to Cumbria. This relatively new route was officially opened in 2012 by Martin Clunes. Specifically designed for mountain bikers and horse riders. It is of course also perfect for walkers.
The Pennine Bridleway follows a variety of surfaces including minor roads, aggregate tracks, grassed stone tracks, stone setts, and worn flags. While some of these have been newly created specifically for the Pennine Bridleway others are drovers’ roads or packhorse trails that have been in use for centuries.
The route takes you through a wonderful variety of landscapes from open moorland to steep-sided wooded river valleys. It passes through both the Peak District and Yorkshire Dales National Parks. You will pass a number of reservoirs which bring another dimension to the route. These were originally constructed to service the canals and the needs of the developing industrial cities of the north. More interest is provided by the evidence of the industrial heritage of the South Pennines. You will see derelict mills, dismantled railways, soot-blackened gritstone walls, and tall ivy-covered chimneys. It’s a route of contrast. It’s an adventure and a challenge and brings a great sense of achievement to those who complete it. For more details see the Pennine Bridleway’s own website.
All along the route, you will find a selection of independent hostels, bunkhouses and camping barns offering low-cost overnight accommodation. Many have secure bike storage and drying rooms and provide or hire out bed linen. Some provide breakfast and evening meals, others will point you in the direction of local shops and pubs. Read each hostel’s feature to be sure they are suitable for you.
Photos kindly supplied by the Pennine National Trails Partnership and Earby Hostel
Land’s End to John O’Groats Walk Route : Hostels and Bunkhouses
What is Land’s End to John O’Groats walking route?
An iconic and highly regarded route and the dream for many long-distance walkers. The Land’s End to John O Groats (LEJOG) walking route begins at Land’s End; the most south-westerly point of the UK. It finishes at John O’Groats; famous for being the most northern extremity of the UK. However, this isn’t strictly accurate as the most northerly part of mainland Britain is nearby Dunnet Head. Why the famous walking route isn’t “Land’s End to Dunnet Head” will always be a mystery. Maybe it is simply because it doesn’t sound as catchy!
Land’s End to John O’Groats walk gives you a little bit of all that the UK’s countryside has to offer, from Cornwall’s magnificent coastline of sparkling beaches, coves, and bays to Scotland’s dramatic wilderness of peaks, fells, and lochs.
Alternatively, walk the route the other way around; John O Groats to Land’s End (JOGLE) and tackle Scotland’s tougher terrain first. That being said, once you have finished the fluctuating terrain of Scotland, the rest of the walk is by no means a stroll in the park. Unless your park is over 1,000 miles long!
What is the distance between Land’s End and John O’Groats?
As the crow flies, the distance between Land’s End and John O’Groats is 603 miles. However, without the ability to fly, making a beeline is near impossible.
The second quickest way to complete the Land’s End to John O Groats journey is to keep to main roads such as the M5. However, walking on motorways is neither pleasant nor legal. Using a variety of smaller roads is popular with walkers who are attempting to break records or are walking this route for charity as a challenge. On average, walking along smaller roads will be a distance of around 874 miles.
The most popular way to walk from Land’s End to John O’Groats or vice versa is by using long-distance footpaths. There is no clearcut path that takes you from one end to the other. So, the solution is to join up a number of long-distance routes. Long distance routes make up a substantial distance of this journey. If you plan the route carefully you can do the vast majority of the route via these paths with only small amounts of walking along roads or between paths. On average, using long-distance footpaths the route will cover around 1200 miles. This is substantially longer than “as the crow flies” or by road but it is far nicer.
Who can do LEJOG?
Anyone can walk from Land’s End to John O’Groats! Due to the sheer length of the journey and diversity of terrain, the route is much better suited to experienced long distance walkers. If you are looking to embark on your first long distance trail, try St Cuthberts Way or Isaacs Tea Trail. These shorter walks would be much better suited to give you a flavour what it takes to achieve a long distance walk.
How long does Land’s End to John O’Groats take to walk?
On average it takes an experienced walker 2 or 3 months to complete the route. This is without considering adverse weather, route changes or injuries. Walking Land’s End to John O’Groats is a massive feat of endurance and really something to be proud of. If this sounds like something you would like to do but you can’t commit to the length of time, why not cycle the route instead?
Or perhaps it is a pipe dream of yours to walk the route. But, it needs to be completed around other engagements such as family or work? In this case, the Land’s End to John O’Groats walking route could be completed over many months or years in smaller sections.
Why walk Lands End to John O Groats?
What are you trying to achieve by walking from Land’s End to John O’Groats? Are you trying to escape the business of everyday life? There are no emails to answer or water cooler gossip to get drawn into while walking through the UK’s wilderness. Just you and the footpath in front of you can be meditative. A good time for healing and being reflective.
Perhaps you want to push yourself and achieve something amazing. This route is highly regarded and revered. The repetition of walking and sleeping and walking again for months at a time requires a lot of stamina, determination, and self-motivation.
Land’s End to John O’Groats Cycle Route: Hostels and Bunkhouses
Why stay in an Independent Hostel or Bunkhouse?
Where do we even begin? How about with a taster of what can be provided for you at a hostel? And a little insight into why hostels are perfectly suited to hosting cyclists who are travelling from Land’s End to John O’Groats.
Bedding is provided
The vast majority of our hostels provide bedding. This means you can greatly reduce how much you are carrying. As a cyclist, reducing kit is vital for conserving energy and saving time!
Meals are provided
Many of the hostels on the Land’s End to John O’Groats route provide evening meals or have a pub or restaurant within walking distance. Embarking on an evening stroll may be a welcome respite from cycling all day!
Increasingly, hostels in the Independent Hostels network provide breakfast – where breakfast is not provided, most are in a town or village where provisions can be found easily.
Such is the nature of hostels, there will always be a self-catering kitchen on hand so you can cook up anything you desire. Though after a tiring day of cycling, perhaps a coffee and a cup-a-soup will suffice!
The accommodation that accepts individuals
Many hostels accept individuals, which means you can pay for a bed for just yourself without having to hire out an entire holiday home. This is much more cost-efficient. Also, you may meet interesting people who are embarking on their own long-distance adventures.
One night only
Independent Hostel accommodation is a great choice for a stop-over on the Lands End to John O’Groats cycle route as they generally allow individuals to stay for one night only. This is ideal for when you are completing Land’s End to John O’Groats within a short time frame.
Bike Storage
The people who run Independent Hostels around the UK understand what it takes to undergo a huge accomplishment such as riding from Land’s End to John O’Groats. That’s why your bike’s safety is their priority. In all but a handful of hostels, there is a covered space for bikes. In many of the hostels, the bike storage is secure. This means your bike can sleep as safely as you do.
Lon Las Cymru Wales Cycle Route: Accommodation in hostels and bunkhouses
Accommodation on the Lon Las Cymru cycle route.
Lon Las Cymru runs down the whole length of Wales for 250 miles from Holyhead to Chepstow or Cardiff. It is one of the toughest of all the long distance cycle routes. It follows a mixture of roads and shorter traffic-free sections. The route follows the spine of Wales from north to south taking in the best of Snowdonia, Mid Wales, and the Brecon Beacons before arriving in the capital, Cardiff, or for the more rural option finishing in Chepstow on the Welsh/English Border. It is considered harder than the Coast to Coast in England, due to the difficulty of the mountainous. terrain.
The Route
The route takes in quiet lanes and family-friendly off-road cycle paths and takes you over the three mountain ranges of Snowdonia, The Cambrian, and the Black mountains. National Cycle Network route 8 takes riders the whole way from Cardiff to Holyhead whilst those starting or finishing on the Welsh border use NCN route 42.
Traveling from south to north on Lon Las Cymru, the route takes at least four days. Some recommend taking it slower so you really get to enjoy the sights and sounds of Wales. While the famous valleys are beautiful, some of the industrial architecture steals the show. You’ll pass viaducts, disused train stations, and water wheels, all a reminder of the area’s industrial past.
After passing through the Brecon Beacons you’ll enter Mid Wales. The most underexplored part of the country by tourists. This middle section of Lon Las Cymru has the least climbing metres, allowing for a more comfortable day in the saddle. With your lungs and legs not burning as much you’ll get more of a chance to take in this underrated part of Wales. Maybe the only reason more people don’t come here is because of how beautiful the rest of the country is.
The next region on the route is Snowdonia, the most strenuous part of Lon Las Cymru. The climb out of Aberllefenni is very difficult, especially when carrying all your gear. The scenery in Snowdonia is some of the most beautiful in the world, on a clear day, the views from the top of some of the hills are jaw-dropping.
The end of the journey is in Holyhead, the largest town in Angelsey and no Lon Las Cymru is complete without dipping your wheels into the waters of the Irish Sea. The Route has taken you through the most beautiful, mountainous countryside of Wales. Now is the time to put your feet up.