A national park with lochs, coastline, waterfalls, forest, glens, hills, and mountains has been named the ‘most scenic’ for winter walks in the UK. As a chill settles over the UK, a new study from CEWE has revealed the country’s most beautiful winter walks. 

Assessing Google reviews, the research uncovered the top picturesque trails across the nation, from frozen lakes to snow-dusted forests. Topping the list is Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park in Scotland with 814 winter-related reviews, giving it a 4.8-star rating. Scotland’s first national park, the area spans 1,865 square kilometres and is home to 22 lochs, 21 Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet) and is home to the UK’s largest nature reserves – Great Trossachs Forest. Among the sites are wildlife such as red deer, red squirrels, great spotted woodpeckers, and golden eagles. There are six long-distance paths, including Three Lochs Way (31 miles), Loch Lomond and Cowal Way (57 miles), and Roy Roy Way (77 miles). West Highland Way links Glasgow to Fort William and is 96 miles long. An internationally renowned route, it is listed by National Geographic as one of the top 10 trails in the world.

There are also numerous shorter routes of varying difficulties, including Stone Hill (1.75 miles and strenuous), Callander Lower Woods (two miles and moderate), and Acharn Forest (four miles and easy).

In second place on CEWE’s list was Dartmoor National Park in Devon, with 657 winter-focused reviews that gained it a 4.8-star rating. 

The 235,000-acre park is filled with vast moorlands, ancient woodlands, and frozen streams. Alongside its impressive scenery, the grounds are home to unique wildlife, including Dartmoor ponies and Bog Hoverflies.

Cairngorms National Park in Scotland completes the top three ‘most scenic winter walks in the UK’ with 637 winter-centric reviews and a 4.8-star rating. 

The UK’s largest national park, covering 4,528 square kilometres and is brimming with natural beauty, from frosted forests to tranquil lochs, and is home to some of the UK’s highest mountain ranges, including Ben Macdui, which rises to 1,309 metres.

Petra Felgen, Managing Director of CEWE UK, said: “As days grow darker and nights lengthen, it can be tempting to stay tucked away indoors, but the UK is full of breathtaking scenery waiting to be discovered.

“Whether it’s a countryside stroll or a wander through a magical forest, there’s plenty to explore across the country. These beautiful settings also provide the ideal backdrop for photographing your adventures and keeping lasting mementoes. 

“We hope our research highlights both well-known rambles and hidden gem trails, perfect for everyone – whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice.”