Nothing can quite prepare you for a Boxing Day walk. After a long day trapped inside, eating everything in sight, before slumping in front of the TV, the great outdoors can be quite a shock to the system—and no, we’re not just talking about the cold weather!
Still, it’s just a big part of my family’s Christmas as stockings, Turkey and fruitcake. And we might have just found the most Christmassy walk near Birmingham for the whole family to enjoy this festive season. So pull on your wellies and raincoat, we’re heading outside…
What is the most Christmassy walk near Birmingham?
To help everyone get outside this festive season, outdoor experts, GO Outdoors, have revealed the UK’s most Christmassy walks. Analysing TripAdvisor ratings, festive mentions in TripAdvisor reviews, average snowfall in December and the distance to the closest cosy pub, the team have highlighted the best place for a festive walk.
Top of that list is Barmouth Beach in Wales. Located in southern Snowdonia, the beach has a Christmassy feel in winter. With a seafront path, occasional light snowfall, and only 0.2 miles from a pub to warm up after your walk. The UK’s best Christmas walk is great for family outings and solo strolls.
It’s also about three hours in the car from Birmingham, even longer by public transport, but luckily, there’s a more easily accessible alternative. Just an hour and a half drive from Birmingham city centre, at the bottom of the Peak District, Dovedale is the UK’s tenth best Christmas walk.
Why visit Dovedale over Christmas?
Dovedale might be the furthest from a pub on the list (1.5 miles, which isn’t so bad), but it’s seen the highest amount of average snowfall in December (3.4 cm)—making the Peak District valley an (potentially) incredibly scenic walk. Enjoy breathtaking sights from the top of Thorpe Cloud to its iconic stepping stones across the River Dove.
An immensely popular destination year-round, there are several walking routes around Dovedale for all types of hikers—from a short 1.5-mile circular walk, from the car park, probably the most popular. The closest pub to Dovedale is The Old Dog in Thorpe. A proper yet modern boozer for real ales and British pub grub.
How do I prepare for a Christmas walk?
Natalie Wolfenden, author and outdoor enthusiast, offers this advice: “Plan your route well in advance and make sure it’s suitable for everyone taking part. With the colder weather, it’s best to choose paths you’re confident with, as this will make it easier for you to relax and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
“Dressing in warm, breathable layers with an insulated coat will help you stay comfortable, and supportive footwear is essential for any slippery or uneven terrain. If temperatures are set to drop particularly low, a hat and gloves can make a big difference to how long you’re able to stay outside comfortably.
“Finally, on the day of your walk, be sure to check the latest weather forecast before heading out, and be ready to change your plans if conditions take a turn. Staying flexible will help ensure a more enjoyable Christmas outing!”
The UK’s most Christmassy walks:
- Barmouth Beach, Wales
- Glastonbury Tor, Somerset
- Bournemouth Beach, Dorset
- Arthur’s Seat, Edinburgh
- Calton Hill, Edinburgh
- Camber Sands, East Sussex
- Filey Beach, North Yorkshire
- Fistral Beach, Cornwall
- Brighton Beach, East Sussex
- Dovedale, Peak District