A great way to explore the UK is alongside its rivers. From calming currents to turbulent torrents, enjoy the beauty of the British countryside and its fantastic nature on a wonderful waterside river walk.
Here are a few of the best river walks around the UK...
River Wharfe and Bolton Priory, North Yorkshire
Distance: 6 miles
Starting in the village of Bolton Abbey, the riverbank can be accessed at the site of the dramatic ruins of its 12th Century priory.
Cross to the other side of the river via the stepping stones – or take the safer (and drier) option of the footbridge.
The river reaches its climax at The Strid, where the water is forced into a narrow channel between the rocky sides, rushing through with exhilarating force.
Further along, the handsome 11th Century footbridge looks like a scene from a picture postcard, with water flowing underneath its castellated stone arches.
Chee Dale, Miller’s Dale and Wye Dale, Derbyshire
Distance: 4 miles
Situated deep in the Peak District, this four-mile loop walk along the River Wye explores deep gorges and enchanting forests.
Beginning at an abandoned railway junction, east of Buxton, the route crosses a series of impressive viaducts that pay tribute to the region’s Victorian engineering heritage.
Further along, the riverside path follows a series of curves at the heart of the Chee Dale nature reserve – characterised by majestic slopes and imposing crags of carboniferous limestone, and home to an abundance of wildlife.
On the return, this riverside ramble becomes even more fairytale-like, with stepping stones, crags, rapids, pools and springs to enjoy.
River Stour, Suffolk and Essex
Distance: 3 miles
Situated on the border between Suffolk and Essex, this short, circular walk along the marshy banks of the River Stour takes you on a scenic stroll from the village of Dedham to the site of Flatford Mill – a landscape that famously inspired artist John Constable’s work.
This route looks just as beautiful in person as it does on canvas, thanks to the stunning surrounding scenery of Dedham Vale – an Area of Outstanding National Beauty – with its oaks and weeping willows.
En route, be sure to stop at Fen Bridge for a chance to spot owls, woodpeckers, kingfishers and otters, as well as Mill Pond – a viewpoint that is instantly recognisable from Constable’s famous painting, The Hay Wain.
East Lyn River, Exmoor, Devon
Distance: 6 miles
The dreamy Devonshire countryside is well-known for its sandy white beaches and rolling moorland. But a walk along the East Lyn River offers an alternative perspective of this quaint and varied county.
The picturesque village of Lynmouth is the starting point for this six-mile stroll, taking you past splashing brooks, enchanting waterfalls and leafy woodland.
As you venture further upstream, you’ll find yourself at the fishing lodge of Watersmeet. Owned by the National Trust, it stands at the bottom of a deep river gorge, surrounded by rich ancient woodland, making it a wildlife haven.
A memorial to the former Lynrock mineral water factory, that once sat at the river’s edge until it was swept away in the 1952 Lynmouth flood disaster, can also be found here.
River Marteg, Rhayader, Powys, Wales
Distance: 3 miles
Take a walk on the wild side along the banks of the River Marteg – just three miles north of the market town of Rhayader.
Starting from a car park, a winding path traces this rocky river through Gilfach Farm Nature Reserve – a Site of Special Scientific Interest, rich in fauna and flora.
Passing through a wooden arch will bring you to some impressive stone carvings, depicting the many wildlife species that can be found here.
During warmer months, butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies dance beside the water, while species of diving birds and freshwater fish – including trout – can be also be spotted.
As you approach the intensifying roar of the waterfall ahead, the path leads to a viewing platform, great for seeing leaping salmon, otters, or just enjoying the sound of the rushing torrents.
River Tay, Perth and Kinross, Scotland
Distance: 3.5 miles
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Tay – Scotland's longest river – in the small city of Perth.
Away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, a designated walkway stretches through Norie-Miller Park, home to wildlife, gardens and outdoor artwork – including a number of sculptures along the east bank of the river made from unusual shapes.
The Panmure Passage, located on the riverside, is a nod to the area’s shipbuilding heritage.
For further information on routes, visit Ordnance Survey.
If these routes have inspired you to get walking, how about setting yourself the challenge of Walk1000Miles. Run by our friends at Country Walking magazine, it's a great way to get out and about in the countryside, make friends, lose weight and most of all have fun!