As part of Junior Explorers’ Club, we are actively encouraging your little ones to get outdoors! After all, it’s a club that’s all about adventuring, creating and exploring.
At Millets, we know that scrambling up rocks and reaching the highest peak isn’t ideal when you have little ones with you, so to make things easier, we have put together a guide of the best family friendly walks in the UK.
And what’s in it for the little ones? To keep them entertained, we have made an activity sheet for them to follow on your adventure. Attached you will find a scavenger hunt where your kids can tick off each item as they find it.
It's time to get your walking boots on and start exploring!
PORTHGAIN, PEMBROKESHIRE
Wales is always a good idea for an outdoors adventure, as it offers some of the most child-friendly walking routes in the UK, as well as an abundance of greenery and wildlife to explore. This walk is perfect for families looking for a chilled day out; it starts at Porthgain harbour and goes along the coast to Traeth Llyfn beach and on to Aereiddy Bay. This then loops back to the harbour you started at where you will find some great pubs to stop at (for snacks for the kids, obviously). Or, if you’re packing a picnic, halfway along you’ll find Aereiddy Bay, a great place to sit, eat and admire the view.
- Time to walk: 1hr 45mins
- Distance: 3.7 miles
- Local amenities: Toilets, shops, ice cream parlour, pubs/restaurants, art gallery, playing fields
- Postcode for starting point: SA62 5BN
SLIEVE MARTIN CIRCULAR, COUNTY DOWN
The Slieve Martin Circular route is a round walk that's ideal for the whole family, as it begins in car park with a café, accessible toilet facilities and a children’s play area - perfect for kids to left off any extra steam once you've finished the walk. Situated in Kilbroey Forest Park, Slieve Martin reaches just under 500m which offers amazing views to you and your family. With markers along the route, it’s easy to find your way around. Come face to face with a part of history as you reach the Cloughmore Stone, a piece of land left from the ice age.
- Time to walk: 1hr 55mins
- Distance: 3.9 miles
- Local amenities: Reservoir country park, picnic area, toilets, café, playing fields
- Postcode for starting point: BT34 3AA (from here, follow a single track road 800 yards to the car park)
HARDCASTLE CRAGS, WEST YORKSHIRE
Located near the idyllic town of Hebden Bridge, Hardcastle Crags offers many paths suited for families, meaning there's always something new to see when you visit. Made up of over 400 acres, it features streams, meadows and lots of trees that create beautiful scenic views. Here also is Gibson Mill, a fun and educational center where kids can have fun using play and interactive exhibits to learn more about the area's local history. Hardcastle Crags is also free to visit, so you can enjoy a full day out with the family on a budget.
There are many popular footpaths in West Yorkshire, like the railway trail which is perfect for kids seeking adventure! There are even guided tours sometimes available if you want a relaxed and educational walk around the Crags. See which one you’re feeling, pack your bags, and explore!
- Distance: Varies from ¼ - 3½ miles
- Local amenities: Café, toilets, car park, picnic area, shop
- Postcode for starting point: HX7 7AW
KNIGHTSHAYES, DEVON
A circular walk dedicated to dog walkers and perfect for the whole family. Starting from the Stables’ lawn, this route takes you through parkland and past Heathcoat Cricket club, offering wonderful woodlands, parks and greenery.
Note to dogwalkers: There can be sheep sometimes, so remember to keep a look out and have your lead handy.
- Time to walk: 25-45 mins
- Distance: 1.2 miles
- Local amenities: Café, toilets, car park, kitchen garden, woodland garden, shop
- Postcode for starting point: EX16 7RQ
LOCH MUICK, ABERDEENSHIRE
Now up to Scotland, where the scenery is something you don’t want to miss, we have the Loch Muick walk. With lots to see, this path is surrounded by steep hills and follows the edge of the loch, passing a boat house and even Queen Victoria’s hunting lodge.
There’s lots for the kids to see and explore, including a shop full of information where they can learn more about their surroundings and local wildlife.
- Time to walk: 3hrs 20mins
- Distance: 7.9 miles
- Local amenities: Visitor centre, picnic area, toilets with baby changing facilities, car park
- Postcode for starting point: AB35 5SU
Now we’ve covered most of the UK, it’s time to pick a location, print out your activity sheet and start on your adventure. If you know any other places well suited for families, remember to let us know over on our Instagram.
Pack your bags, not forgetting water and snacks, get your walking gear on and get exploring with your kids!
