The Best Counties in England for Quiet, Uncrowded Walks Revealed

In recent years, Britain’s most famous walking routes have become increasingly busy. Viral viewpoints, social media hotspots and the rise of outdoor tourism have meant that some of the country’s best-loved trails can now feel surprisingly crowded. Stories of walkers queueing for photos at popular summits have become common, turning what should be a peaceful escape into something closer to a tourist attraction.

But if your ideal countryside walk involves wide open views, fresh air and plenty of space, new research suggests there are still plenty of places across England where you can enjoy the landscape without the crowds.

A recent study has identified the English counties with the greatest number of quiet walking routes — scenic trails that are highly rated, relatively easy to complete and, most importantly, rarely busy.

The Rise of the Quiet Walk

Interest in walking routes has surged in recent months. Searches for phrases such as “best hiking trails near me” have reportedly increased dramatically, reflecting a wider shift towards slower, more mindful travel experiences.

This growing appetite for nature has also given rise to a new trend sometimes referred to as the “hushcation” — holidays focused on peace, quiet and the chance to completely switch off from everyday life.

For walkers seeking that kind of escape, choosing the right location can make all the difference.

The Counties With the Most Uncrowded Walks

The study examined thousands of walking trails across England and identified routes that met several key criteria:

• Low to moderate trail usage
• Highly rated by walkers (4 stars or above)
• Scenic views throughout the route
• Relatively easy to complete
• Circular trails that start and finish in the same location

After analysing the data, three counties stood out as the best destinations for peaceful walking.

Hampshire claimed the top spot, with an impressive 555 uncrowded walking routes across the region. The county offers a wide variety of landscapes, from the rolling chalk hills of the South Downs to ancient woodland and quiet river valleys. Popular but peaceful options include the circular pub walk between Ye Olde George Inn and East Meon, as well as the Rhinefield Ornamental Drive Circular in the New Forest.

Derbyshire followed closely behind with 553 quiet trails. Known for its dramatic Peak District scenery, the county offers countless walking opportunities that extend far beyond the busiest viewpoints. Routes such as the New Mills, Chinley Churn and Birch Vale Circular walk provide sweeping countryside views without the heavy footfall of more famous trails.

North Yorkshire secured third place with 498 peaceful walking routes. With landscapes ranging from the Yorkshire Dales to the North York Moors, the county is renowned for its vast open spaces, making it a natural haven for walkers seeking solitude.

Devon: England’s Quiet Walking Capital

While Devon ranked fourth overall with 483 uncrowded walks, it stood out for another reason.

According to the research, half of all walking trails in Devon are considered uncrowded, the highest proportion of any county in England. With dramatic coastal paths, rolling countryside and expansive national parks such as Dartmoor and Exmoor, the region offers an abundance of scenic routes where walkers can still enjoy genuine tranquillity.

The Top 10 Counties for Uncrowded Walks

The study’s full list of counties offering the greatest number of quiet walking trails includes:

1. Hampshire – 555 uncrowded walks
2. Derbyshire – 553
3. North Yorkshire – 498
4. Devon – 483
5. Cumbria – 471
6. Surrey – 435
7. West Sussex – 395
8. Lancashire – 344
9. West Yorkshire – 307
10. Greater Manchester – 295

Why Quiet Walking Routes Matter

Beyond the obvious appeal of fewer crowds, peaceful walking trails offer something many travellers increasingly crave: the chance to truly disconnect.

Michael Holgate, owner of Holgates, says the findings reflect a growing demand for slower, more restorative travel experiences.

“Recent travel trend reports have highlighted a growing demand for so-called ‘hushcations’ — quiet, peaceful breaks where people can truly switch off from the stresses of everyday life,” he explains.

“From Lancashire’s rolling countryside to Cumbria’s vast open landscapes beyond the busiest Lake District hotspots, the UK is home to a wealth of unspoilt walking trails.”

For those looking to swap packed viewpoints for open landscapes and uninterrupted views, the research suggests the answer may simply be choosing the right county.

Because sometimes the best walks aren’t the ones everyone is talking about — they’re the ones where you can hear nothing but the wind, the birds and your own footsteps.

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