This article on your next family walking holiday is sponsored by Contours Holidays.
The British countryside boasts endless opportunities for exploration, with something to entice every taste. Perhaps one of the best ways to enjoy the diverse UK landscapes is on foot, while introducing the next generation to the natural beauty and remarkable history on display all around them.
Main image: The Walking Witches on the Hadrian’s Wall Path | Credit: Amie Dixon / Contours Holidays
Walking from point to point over the course of several days might feel a bit daunting with children or older relatives in tow, but with the right planning, a multi-generational walking holiday can be a fantastically rewarding experience for the whole family.
The main thing to bear in mind when arranging a family walking holiday is, of course, the abilities of your group. Do the younger members have boundless energy to burn, or might they require a slower pace with frequent breaks? Are there any mobility issues or novice hikers in your party? All these considerations are important when selecting the right walking tour, to ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time out on the trails.
Contours Holidays have been arranging self-guided UK excursions for almost 30 years, so they know a thing or two about crafting the ideal outdoor escape for just about any group. Their family-oriented experts can help you choose and customise the perfect itinerary from a wide variety of trails across England, Scotland and Wales. After that, you get to kick back as they get to work hand-selecting your nightly accommodation and arranging for your luggage to be transported each day – so no need to lug around all those “essentials”!
Contours also provide you with a bespoke holiday pack complete with maps and directions tailored to your tour, allowing you to go at a pace that suits your group without the need to keep up with a tour guide. With all the fiddly logistics taken care of (and a 24-hour phone support line in case of any mishaps) a Contours family walking holiday is the ideal way to discover the British Isles your way.
Here are some trail suggestions from Contours for family walking holidays.
Baby’s First Adventure: Camel Trail
This short, lesser-known route through the Cornish countryside is perfect for exploring with infants or toddlers, thanks to its pushchair-friendly paths and abundance of wildlife.
Room to Frolic: Northumberland Coast Path
Keep energetic kids entertained on this approachable but diverse route, complete with legendary castles, seaside towns, sandy beaches and wide-open spaces to run and play.
Post-Exam Breathing Space: Rob Roy Way
Give teenage family members time to decompress from school stresses and air out their thoughts on a bracing ramble through Scotland’s fabled Rob Roy country.
Family Reunion: Ceredigion Coast Path
Reconnect with adult relatives during a restorative shoreline jaunt along the scenic Welsh coast, with numerous pubs in which to enjoy a long-overdue catch up!
A Gentler Pace: Kennet and Avon Canal
Well-surfaced riverside paths and obstacle-free route options make this tranquil trail ideal for those in need of shorter mileages, a calm ambience and easy terrain.
Call 01629 821900 or visit contours.co.uk to get started.
