The UK offers some of the most breathtaking day hikes in the world, with trails winding through picturesque countryside, coastal cliffs, and rugged mountains. Each of these hikes presents a unique way to experience the beauty of the UK’s landscapes, whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner.
Packing the right gear is crucial for a successful day hike, and the hiking packs and accessories by Mystery Ranch ensure you’re fully equipped for a comfortable, enjoyable journey. Dive into our guide to discover our top 10 hiking trips and the essentials you need to pack!
- Top 10 Scenic Day Hikes in the UK
- Essential Backpacks & Accessories for Day Hiking
- Hiking Essentials for Every Day Trips
- Additional Tips for Hiking Comfort and Safety
- Day Hiking Essentials FAQs
Top 10 Scenic Day Hikes in the UK
1. Ben Nevis Mountain Trail, Scotland
The Ben Nevis Mountain Trail takes you to the UK’s highest peak, offering a challenging 17 km round-trip hike with stunning views across the Scottish Highlands. It’s a steep ascent but offers a rewarding view from the top.
2. Snowdon’s Pyg Track, Wales
For those heading to Snowdonia National Park, the Pyg Track is a popular route up Snowdon. This 7 km path provides some of the best views over the Welsh mountains, making it a favourite for day hikers looking for a moderate challenge.
3. Scafell Pike, Lake District, England
The Scafell Pike trail is a must for hikers aiming to conquer England’s highest mountain. This 9.5 km round-trip hike offers dramatic views of the Lake District and is an ideal day trip for those with hiking experience.
4. Hadrian’s Wall Path, Northern England
Hiking along Hadrian’s Wall offers a walk back in time. With sections suitable for a day hike, you can enjoy northern England’s rolling hills and ancient Roman history without covering the entire 135 km route.
5. Old Man of Storr, Isle of Skye, Scotland
This shorter 4 km loop on the Isle of Skye offers iconic views of the Scottish coast and is beginner-friendly, though steep in parts. The Old Man of Storr’s jagged cliffs and unusual rock formations make it an unforgettable sight.
6. Malham Cove & Gordale Scar, Yorkshire Dales
This 12 km circular route takes hikers through stunning limestone formations and quiet countryside. The Yorkshire Dales are a perfect blend of natural beauty and gentle trails, making it a scenic day out.
7. South West Coast Path, Cornwall
The South West Coast Path offers dramatic coastal trails, such as the segment between St Ives and Zennor. With its cliffs, sandy beaches, and ocean views, this trail is ideal for hikers who love coastal scenery.
8. Cheddar Gorge Walk, Somerset
Cheddar Gorge’s 6.5 km loop trail showcases striking limestone cliffs and green countryside, making it a popular choice for families. The route offers gentle paths as well as some steeper climbs.
9. Causeway Coast Trail, Northern Ireland
The Causeway Coast Trail includes the famous Giant’s Causeway, with cliffside views and unique rock formations. A shorter day hike here provides the perfect opportunity to explore Northern Ireland’s coast.
10. The Mourne Mountains, Northern Ireland
Slieve Donard is a popular peak within the Mourne Mountains, offering a 9 km round-trip with views of Northern Ireland’s coastline and lush valleys. It’s a great choice for those wanting a peaceful day in nature.
Essential Backpacks & Accessories for Day Hiking
Choosing the right gear can make all the difference on these scenic trails. It is crucial that you are well prepared for your day hike, meaning you have all the essentials on hand with a comfortable method of transporting your goods with you.
Hiking Packs
A reliable daypack is your best friend on the trail. Mystery Ranch offers versatile hiking packs that keep essentials organised, easy to access, and comfortable to carry.
Coulee 25
This 25L Coulee daypack is ideal for carrying all your essentials. It features a 3-zip design for easy access to contents, along with external and internal pockets to store snacks, maps, and a hydration reservoir.
Scree 33
For longer or more challenging day hikes where you might need extra layers or gear, the Scree 33 provides a bit more capacity without feeling bulky. This pack includes dual water bottle holders, compression straps, and a yoke-adjustable fit for added comfort.
In & Out 19
A compact, ultralight option, the In & Out 19 is perfect for those wanting a lightweight pack for short hikes. It folds up into a compact size for easy storage but provides ample room for day-trip essentials.
Backpacking Packs
For longer hikes that require extra gear, Mystery Ranch’s backpacking packs provide added storage without sacrificing comfort. The pack designs emphasise a stable, supportive fit for carrying heavier loads.
Terraframe 50
The Terraframe 50 is an excellent choice for those bringing extra equipment or hiking in colder weather when more layers are needed. Its Overload® feature allows you to adjust the pack’s capacity, ideal for when you need to bring gear like camera equipment or extra food.
Glacier 71
Though more commonly used for multi-day treks, the Glacier 71L is suitable for longer, gear-heavy day hikes, like when you’re capturing photography along scenic routes. It provides exceptional load distribution, so you can hike longer distances in comfort.
Backpacking Accessories
Backpack accessories can improve your organisation, accessibility, and overall hiking experience. Mystery Ranch offers several accessories that are great for keeping gear organised and handy on the trail.
Zoid Cube
These versatile storage cubes are ideal for separating clothing, snacks, or first-aid kits. The Zoid Cube’s compact design allows you to pack strategically and access items easily without needing to rummage through your entire pack.
Void Cell
A padded pouch, the Void Cell is perfect for protecting fragile or delicate items like sunglasses, electronic devices, or extra camera lenses. Its soft interior keeps gear safe, and it fits neatly inside the pack.
Tech Holster
Attached easily to the shoulder strap, the Tech Holster is a convenient place to store your phone, GPS device, or a compact camera for easy access.
Removable Water Bottle Pocket
Staying hydrated is key, especially on longer hikes. Mystery Ranch’s removable water bottle pockets work with all water bottles so you can sip on the go. For packs without built-in reservoirs, consider adding a separate water bottle pocket.
Hiking Essentials for Every Day Trips
Beyond the backpack itself, certain essentials can make or break your hiking experience. Here’s a list of items every hiker should bring along:
Water and Snacks: Pack at least 1.5–2 litres of water per person for your day hike, it is crucial to stay hydrated on your route. High-energy snacks like protein bars, trail mix, or dried fruit will keep you fueled along the way.
Navigation Tools: A map and compass are crucial, especially in remote areas where cell signal might be unreliable. For tech-savvy hikers, a GPS device or smartphone app can be handy but always bring a backup.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Layering is essential in the UK’s variable climate. A breathable base layer, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof outer shell will cover all weather scenarios. Don’t forget a hat and gloves in colder months, and a sun hat for warmer days.
First-Aid Kit: A compact first-aid kit can address minor scrapes, blisters, or other common hiking ailments. Ensure it includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, and any personal medications.
Multi-Tool or Knife: A small multi-tool can be a lifesaver, whether you need to open a snack, fix gear, or perform a quick repair.
Sunscreen and Insect Repellent: Even in cooler climates, UV exposure can still cause sunburn, especially at higher altitudes. Insect repellent is essential during spring and summer.
Trekking Poles: Especially useful on uneven or steep terrain, trekking poles can provide stability and reduce strain on your knees. Most trekking poles are collapsible and easily fit into a pack’s side pocket when not in use.
Additional Tips for Hiking Comfort and Safety
1. Pack Smart
Organise items by frequency of use, keeping essentials like snacks, water, and your map within easy reach. The multiple compartments in packs like the Coulee 25 make organisation straightforward.
2. Stay Hydrated
Sip water regularly to avoid dehydration, particularly on strenuous trails. If your pack is hydration-compatible, take advantage of this feature to make staying hydrated easier.
3. Leave No Trace
Always pack out any trash, leftover food, or gear remnants to keep the trails pristine for future visitors.
4. Emergency Preparedness
Carry a whistle, a small flashlight, and a fully charged phone (or portable power bank) in case of emergencies.
Day Hiking Essentials FAQs
What’s the difference between a daypack and a full-sized hiking backpack?
Daypacks are typically 20–30L, offering space for essential items on a single-day hike. Full-sized hiking backpacks are usually 50L or more and are suited for multi-day treks with overnight gear. Daypacks prioritise portability and lightweight design, while larger packs focus on load distribution and extra storage.
How do I organise my hiking pack effectively?
A well-organised pack saves time and makes hiking more enjoyable. Use accessories like Zoid Cubes to keep items like snacks, first aid, and spare clothing in separate compartments. Place heavier items, like water and extra layers, close to your back to improve balance, and store frequently used items in top or side pockets for quick access.
What clothing should I pack for UK hikes?
In the UK, weather conditions can change quickly, so layered clothing is essential. Wear moisture-wicking base layers, add a fleece or insulated jacket for warmth, and pack a waterproof outer layer to stay dry. Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and sun protection, as exposure to sun and wind can be surprising at higher altitudes.
Prepare for Your Day Hike with Mystery Ranch
Exploring the UK’s diverse landscapes by day hike is an unforgettable experience, and having the right gear can elevate every aspect of the adventure. From well-designed packs to essential hiking accessories, Mystery Ranch has everything you need to make your hike safe, comfortable, and enjoyable.
With preparation and the right equipment, you’re set for an incredible journey through the UK’s beautiful countryside and coastal trails. Shop our range of hiking packs and backpack accessories to kickstart your hiking experience with Mystery Ranch!
