National Walking Month

May is National Walking Month, so what better time to take in some fresh air? We’ve put together some of our favourite walking routes, so you can get out there for a stroll, ramble or hike whilst taking a well-earned break away at one of our delightful properties around the U.K.

North

Crewe

Wychwood Park Hotel & Golf Club, ideally located just outside of Crewe, is near to several walking trails with the Wheelock Rail Trail being one of the most intriguing as it follows the route of a disused railway from Ettiley Heath to Malkins Bank. The trail, which is a rich haven for wildlife and wild flowers, provides a pleasant level and wide route, 2.2km in length each way taking approximately 1 – 1 ½ hours to complete. Prices from £45pp for one-night accommodation including evening meal and full buffet breakfast. Call Wychwood Park Hotel & Golf Club on 01270 829200,

Chester

The largest area of woodland in England, Delamere Forest is a shady oasis ideal for families, due to the quiet and peaceful surroundings. Explore a wide range of walking trails with dry sandstone paths, shade from the canopies of mature trees and the chance for bird watching at Blakemere Moss lake. Historic Crabwall Manor Hotel & Spa, a mere 30 minutes’ drive away with an 18-meter heated indoor pool and leisure facilities is a comfortable base for exploring the county further. Prices from £145 bed & breakfast per night (based on two adults and two children sharing). Call Crabwall Manor Hotel & Spa on 01244 851666

Preston

Walk in the footsteps of author J.R.R. Tolkien who regularly visited the Ribble Valley, in the Forest of Bowland, less than 40 minutes’ drive from Preston city centre. The trail explores the richly scenic surroundings that inspired author of The Lord of the Rings series, with several names throughout the books being similar to those found locally. Then relax at nearby Legacy Preston International Hotel for comfort and recuperation. Prices from £95 per family (two adults and two children sharing) including accommodation and breakfast. Call Legacy Preston International Hotel on 08444 119 028

South

Salisbury

Explore the delightful countryside city of Salisbury, from an idyllic riverside base. The charming Legacy Rose & Crown Hotel, on the banks of River Avon, has glorious views of historic Salisbury Cathedral and is a short walk into the city. With many picturesque walking routes including a walk to Salisbury’s former settlement, Old Sarum, and the start of The Avon Valley Path, guests have an abundance of courses to discover. A two-night break includes a three-course dinner on both evenings, breakfast and a bottle of Prosecco in the room, from just £129 per person (based on two sharing). Call Legacy Rose & Crown Hotel on 01722 328615.

Chippenham

Share a Wiltshire escape with your furry friend at the Best Western Plus Angel Hotel, in Chippenham. Dogs are invited to stay for free at the hotel with their owners; perfect for taking advantage of the Wiltshire countryside, walking trails and nearby Cotswolds for an outdoors break together. The Chippenham central hotel, with free car parking and large, inviting rooms is the perfect base. Cost for a two-night stay is from £114.50 per person (based on two adults sharing) and includes a three-course dinner on both evenings, breakfast and a bottle of Prosecco in the room. Call Best Western Plus Angel Hotel on 01249 652615

Southampton

With its very own woodland trail and 32 acres of lush parkland to discover, a stay at New Place Hotel in the Hampshire countryside is the ideal country escape. After a breath of fresh air, guests can return to the luxurious Grade I listed manor house with its relaxing leisure facilities and hearty dining options to refuel. An onsite woodland trail is the perfect way to enjoy a brisk walk each day either to try the latest trend, forest bathing, or accompanied by man’s best friend. Stay for two-nights from just £99.50 per person (based on two sharing) and enjoy a three-course dinner on both evenings, breakfast and a bottle of prosecco. Call New Place Hotel on 01329 833543

Home to one of the largest remaining tracts of unenclosed pasture land, heathland and forest in the heavily populated south east of England, the New Forest National Park is an idyllic setting for anyone with a keen passion for walking. With 140 miles of tracks and footpath, the easy-to-follow walking routes, short strolls and long-distance trails provide a range of challenges to explore the great outdoors. Less than 20 minutes’ drive away, Chilworth Manor is perfectly situated for a restful break. Prices from £90pp for a two-night stay (based on two sharing). Call Chilworth Manor Hotel on 023 8076 7333