With spring underway and longer days, it’s a great time to get outside and enjoy a walk. From coastal paths to countryside trails, here are some of APL Media staff’s favourite spring walks — complete with scenic views, local landmarks and spots to refuel along the way.

1. Knaresborough Round, Yorkshire 

If you’re visiting York, take a short train ride to Knaresborough for a 20-mile circular walk through the stunning Yorkshire countryside and picturesque villages. The route winds past rivers, rolling fields and historic landmarks, making it a perfect day out for keen walkers. Hike the 22km Saxon Shore Way trail from Hastings to Rye for beautiful coastal scenery. It’s a great way to visit these two historic towns 

Top tip: Reward yourself with a well-earned pint at Mother Shipton Inn near the end of the walk. 

Recommended by Living 360’s content editor, Evie Richards  

2. Headon Warren and The Needles, Isle of Wight 

One of the most dramatic coastal walks in the UK, this two- to three-hour route along the west coast of the Isle of Wight is perfect for a spring day. Start in Totland Bay and follow the headland up to Headon Warren, passing Bronze Age burial mounds and enjoying stunning views over Alum Bay. 

Continue to: The Needles Old Battery, a historic fortress perched on the cliffs. 
Final climb: To the Tennyson Monument, with breathtaking views. 
Celebrate your walk: With a local ale at the Highdown Inn. 

Recommended by APL Media’s digital marketing manager, Tilly Tasker 

3. Paper Mill Lock and Little Baddow, Essex 

This scenic canal-side walk near Chelmsford starts and ends at Paper Mill Lock, where you’ll find a charming tearoom — perfect for a drink and some cake at the finish. The countryside views along the way showcase Essex at its best.  
Route details: Paper Mill Lock & Little baddow route 

Recommended by APL Media’s senior designer, Dean Reynolds 

4. River Wandle, Southwest London 

This riverside walk follows the Wandle from its source as a small stream in Wandle Park in Croydon to a river flowing into the Thames in Wandsworth. Along the way you’ll go through parks, woods and nature reserves. Grab a coffee en route at the historic Morden Hall and stop for lunch at a former William Morris printing factory in Merton Abbey Mills. 

Route details: find the map here (Wandle Trail Map • Wandle Valley) 

Recommended by APL Media’s operations manager, Seamus McDermott 

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About APL Media    
APL Media is a multi-award-winning content marketing agency and publisher, producing high-quality print, digital and live media across the travel and lifestyle sectors. Founded in 1997, it publishes National Geographic Traveller (UK), supported by a portfolio of brand extensions including bespoke guides, supplements, events and digital platforms. APL Media delivers impactful, audience-focused storytelling through custom content, branded campaigns, editorial consultancy and industry-leading events such as the Travel Media Awards and the professional development initiative Step Up. Its trade publishing portfolio includes Postcards and the ASTA Worldwide Destination Guide, while it also creates and supplies digital and print content for a number of national newspapers. 
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