Blue Monday: Prettiest walks to get outside

Britons are being given advice on the prettiest winter walks to get those steps to beat the feelings of Blue Monday.

The travel experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have looked at the most scenic walks across the UK to enjoy during the wintery weather. They've included walks for all abilities from those who enjoy a gentle stroll to hikers happy to walk miles.

Breathtaking spots include Aber Falls in Wales, the Cairngorms National Park in Scotland and  Catbells in the Lake District. Other lesser known locations for walks include Winterton On Sea and Horsey Gap in Norfolk and St Nectan's Glen in Cornwall.

John Charnock, CEO of StressFreeCarRental.com said: "After the over indulgence that comes with Christmas a winter walk is what we all need to blow those cobwebs away.

"There are some beautiful spots in the UK where you can do just that from the rugged beauty of the Irish coastline to the more refined surroundings in Richmond Park. We've picked out some of our favourites but everywhere you turn in the UK, you're never too far away from somewhere restful where you can take a winter walk."

 

Here are StressFreeCarRental.com's suggestions for winter walks:

 

Winterton and Horsey, Norfolk

If you're looking for a lovely stroll along the beach and want to see hundreds of grey seals too, then head to Winterton on Sea and Horsey Gap in Norfolk. Between November and January, pregnant grey seals give birth to their pups on the beach. You can follow the coastal path and admire the pups from dedicated viewing areas.

 

Richmond Park, London

If you live in London, head to Richmond Park for a rural feel. There are a number of walking routes where you can view the roaming deer, wander through the bracken and enjoy the woodland.

 

Monsal Trail, Peak District

You can hike, bike or take a gentle stroll along the Monsal Trail which is a disused railway line. You can enjoy stunning scenery, frosty landscapes and enjoy delicious Bakewell pudding in the town it shares its name with.

 

Robin Hood's Bay, Yorkshire

Enjoy a walk through the village with its tiny cottages and along the beautiful beach. There are circular walks which take in this breathtaking spot, or simply go for a wander and finish off with some traditional fish and chips.

 

Aber Falls, Abergwyngregyn

Take a walk to one of the highest waterfalls in Wales on this three mile walk. It will take you through beautiful woodland before you reach the falls. It's always breathtaking, but more so if there's been lots of rain or it's frozen.

 

Loch Morlich, Cairngorms National Park

The circular walk around the Loch is breathtaking. You can enjoy views of the Northern Cairngorm mountains and the tranquillity of Glenmore Forest. If you;re lucky, you may even see snow too.

 

North Down Coastal Path, County Down

The rugged coastline between Holywood and Orlock is long so do as much or as little as you want. Enjoy pretty villages, stunning beaches and you may even spot grey seals. Toward the end of the coastal path, you can catch distant views of Scotland.

 

Catbells, Lake District

The mounds of the Catbells are iconic and a great spot for a winter mountain walk. Follow the signposted walks and once you reach the top you'll be able to take in panoramic views of Derwentwater, Skiddaw, Borrowdale and the Newlands Valley.

 

St Nectan's Glen, Cornwall

You'll find this magical spot near Tintagel. Wander through the woods and their mystical atmosphere and you'll reach St Nectan's Kieve. Here a 60 ft waterfall cascades through the rocks. Take your wellies and a spare pair of socks if you're going to take a winter paddle.