5 places to go walking with a group

1. Explore the Cleveland Way from Saltburn

Starting station: Saltburn

If you’re looking for rugged beauty, Victorian charm and a quaint coastal location – look no further. Hopping on the train to Saltburn-by-the-Sea will allow you to explore a charming stretch of the Cleveland Way National Trail, an idyllic site for walkers.

This circular walk, which is 5 miles in length and medium difficulty level, will give you chance to visit the highest point on this part of the coast, leading you through ever-changing scenery – the perfect place to make special memories with loved ones. The coastal path can get muddy during winter, making it best for spring, summer and autumn exploration.

Saltburn is also home to the country’s oldest operating water-balanced cliff lift – take a ride between the town and the beach for a nostalgic trip offering amazing vistas. The cliff lift also allows you to access Saltburn Pier, which is the most northerly surviving pier in Britain.

Worked up an appetite on your 5-miler? If fish and chips aren’t your treat of choice, check out Rapps Café. A stone’s throw away from the station, making it the perfect spot to re-fuel before the journey home, Rapps serves a varied and enticing lunch menu (including a full English) and offers a children’s menu too.

Plan your Saltburn-by-the-Sea walk

2. Discover the England Coast Path on the Cumbrian coast

Starting station: Silecroft or Whitehaven

It couldn’t be easier to explore some of the country’s most precious walking routes by train – including the England Coast Path on the Cumbrian coast. This new stretch of coastal path, which opened in 2022, runs all the way from Silecroft to Whitehaven and, with Northern trains stopping at both, you can take your pick where you start your walking adventure from.

Located on the edge of the Lake District National Park, Silecroft boasts a beautiful golden sand and shingle beach which is easily accessible from the nearby train station. It also boasts unrivalled views across the Irish sea and, on clear days, it’s possible to catch a glimpse of the Isle of Man, as well as wonderful sunsets in the summer months.

The England Coast Path couldn’t be more perfect for blowing off the cobwebs with some fresh sea air, incredible views and great company with your favourite crew of friends or family.

Explore the England Coast Path

3. Visit Buxton and experience the wonders of the Peak District

Starting station: Buxton

Nothing says quintessential English vistas like the Peak District – and Derbyshire has plenty to offer groups looking for an active adventure. Take the train to Buxton, the charming spa town situated in the Derbyshire hills. Famed for its awe-inspiring Georgian and Victorian architecture as well as its spa waters, Buxton is the perfect starting point for walkers.

For a more challenging walk that will help occupy half a day, try this Buxton circular walk which is 7.5 miles with medium difficulty level, taking in some breathtaking landscapes on the edge of the Peak District National Park, as well as Solomon’s Temple and the stunning Buxton Opera House.

Alternatively, for something a little more gentle but no less scenic, try this mile-long route around Corbar in Buxton – starting at the iconic Devonshire Dome – formerly The Devonshire Royal Hospital, you’ll pass by one of the most haunted locations in Buxton and amble along serene woodland paths. 

More things to do in Buxton

4. Take in the Cumbrian village of Staveley

Starting station: Staveley

Gather up your group and head out to the Lake District to experience the quaint village of Staveley: think rolling hills, riverside views, picturesque valleys and stunning scenery with a pub, brewery and shops. This village is fine territory for walkers – with the opportunity for a manageable circular route around Staveley which will enable you to take in everything the village has to offer.

What’s more, Staveley is conveniently nestled between Windermere and Kendal – both easily accessible by train from Staveley and the wider network. With both towns boasting a plethora of cafés, pubs and tourist hotspots, you’ll be spoilt for choice if you’d like an active morning of walking to be followed by some more quality time with your loved ones.

Hop back on the train to see more of what the Lake District has to offer. Like the sound of Windermere? Check out The Crafty Baa – just a 4 minute walk from the station, this cosy and quintessential pub-come-restaurant is open from 11am and serves charcuterie, grilled cheese sandwiches and craft beers.

If you want a slice of arts and culture after an active amble, head to Kendal and check out the Kendal Museum. A stone’s throw from Kendal train station, the museum is one of the oldest in Britain and has exhibitions covering geology, history and archaeology – with something to interest all ages. It is also home to Europe’s largest collection of taxidermy, with the collection ranging from a polar bear to a golden eagle.

Find out more about Staveley Village

5. Uncover Haydon Bridge in Northumberland

Starting station: Haydon Bridge

When it comes to rolling hills and a diverse, ever-fascinating landscape, there’s nowhere better than Northumberland. What’s more, the historic Hadrian’s Wall is within reach for those looking for a more extensive walking trip.

Catch a train to Haydon Bridge to begin your adventure, as this station skirts some of region’s most magnificent landscapes and is located between the Northumberland National Park and the North Pennines.

Haydon Bridge is known for being the source of inspiration for poet Philip Larkin and artist John Martin, who was born in Haydon Bridge in 1789 and renowned for his paintings, engravings and illustrations. His legacy has inspired an idyllic walking route, the John Martin Heritage Trail. The trail consists of two circular routes beginning near the train station: a two-mile north loop and an 11-mile south loop – meaning it’s perfect for walkers of all abilities and couldn’t be easier to access by train.

Plan your visit to Haydon Bridge