This time of year is the perfect blend of crisp air, stunning light and changing landscapes as autumn gets in full swing. With Halloween right around the corner, it’s also a wonderful time to explore the darker, spookier history of your surroundings and visit some of the spots that traditional tourism might overlook.
The Charm of Urban Exploration
Urban exploration on foot presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the fabric of a city and dive into its past. Unlike traditional nature hikes, urban trails offer a dynamic blend of history, culture, and architecture at every turn.
For example, the academic background of neighbourhoods like Bloomsbury in London, famous for the Bloomsbury Group of history’s intellectuals, through to the gothic Haworth in West Yorkshire where you can walk in the footsteps of literary greats like the Bronte sisters, are delightful routes for keen readers.
The benefits of exploring cities this way are numerous: you’ll discover hidden alleyways, stumble upon local markets, and encounter everyday city life in a more intimate setting. Urban hiking allows you to experience the city’s rhythm, smell the aromas wafting from cafes and bakeries, and interact with locals in a way that’s impossible when travelling by car or public transport.
Urban Trails With a Story
If you love to combine exercise with a dose of history, there are many cities in the UK that you’ll love to explore.
York
York offers a unique blend of history and nature, making it an ideal city for urban hikes and adventures. The iconic York city walls provide a scenic walking route, encircling the ancient city and offering elevated views of landmarks like York Minster and the River Ouse.
For a more immersive nature walk, follow the riverbanks of the Ouse through lush parks like Rowntree Park and Homestead Park, where you can enjoy peaceful gardens and wildlife. Whether you’re wandering through medieval streets or along riverside paths, York offers a surprising variety of hiking opportunities within its historic heart.
Pluckley
Known as the most haunted village in the UK, Pluckley in Kent offers a spine-chilling experience for those brave enough to explore its charming streets. Local legends tell of ghostly encounters throughout the village streets, while just beyond the village lies Dering Wood, ominously nicknamed “Screaming Wood.” Visitors have reported hearing terrifying, blood-curdling screams echoing from deep within. Would you dare to venture into the woods to investigate?
Lancashire
Lancashire’s Pendle Hill holds a dark past as the site of one of England’s most notorious witch trials in 1612, and it’s a must for urban trails with a rich history to explore. The hill’s quiet, windswept slopes provide a haunting backdrop for walking trails, where each step seems to evoke the whispers of the past. The village remains steeped in its eerie past, and today, Pendle Hill is notorious for ghostly sightings, particularly of shadowy figures that seem to dart across the landscape at night, keeping the unsettling history alive.
Whether exploring the site of the infamous Gallows Hill or wandering through nearby villages like Newchurch, where the witches once lived, Pendle Hill offers an immersive, atmospheric journey through history that will leave you both captivated and unsettled.
Prestbury
Though it appears to be a quiet, sleepy village, Prestbury in Gloucestershire is one of the UK’s most haunted places, rivalling Pluckley. The village is home to several ghostly figures, including the famous Horseman who dates back to 1471 during the War of the Roses – this spectral rider has been seen galloping through the village on a white horse. At the Plough Inn, the sounds of hooves are often reported, and animals refuse to pass the building without acting strangely, adding to the village’s paranormal reputation.
Conwy
Steeped in history, the walled town of Conwy offers a fascinating urban trail for those eager to explore its medieval past. Begin your journey at Conwy Castle, a towering fortress built by Edward I in the 13th century, with its imposing walls and eight massive towers still largely intact. From there, you can walk along the town’s ancient walls, which provide stunning views of the harbour and the picturesque Welsh countryside.
Along the way, you’ll pass landmarks such as Aberconwy House, a well-preserved merchant’s home, and Plas Mawr, an Elizabethan townhouse known for its detailed architecture and haunting atmosphere. As you wander through Conwy’s narrow streets, you’ll discover remnants of the past at every corner, with tales of sieges, royalty, and restless spirits lingering in the town’s historic heart.
Tips for Creating Your Own Urban Hiking Adventure
Creating your own urban hiking adventure can be as rewarding as following established trails. Start by researching your destination’s local history and points of interest. You can use apps here to plan routes that incorporate these sites while avoiding overly busy or unsafe areas. Don’t be afraid to incorporate public transportation into your route – this can allow you to cover more ground and experience different neighbourhoods in a single day. Remember, the beauty of urban hiking lies in the unexpected discoveries, so leave room for spontaneity in your plans.
Urban hiking offers a unique way to experience cities, combining physical activity with cultural immersion and historical discovery. Exploring overlooked urban trails and historical haunts, particularly at this time of year, enables you to gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and character of the UK’s towns and cities.
Whether you’re following the ghosts of Edinburgh, traversing the winding cobblestone streets of York or immersing yourself in the witchy history surrounding Pendle Hill in Lancashire, urban hiking promises adventure around every corner. So, lace up your walking shoes and prepare to see the UK in a whole new light.
If you’re inspired to set off on your own urban adventure, why not order a copy of ‘Walk Yourself Happy’ today.
Blog author: Annie Button
