Since 2016, the number of regular hillwalkers in England has risen 40%, as more Brits seek adventure and wellbeing in the hills.
Hillwalking has emerged as one of the UK’s fastest-growing physical activities, with the latest figures from Sport England showing that regular walkers in England now number 3.58 million, up from 3.39 million last year. This surge may be attributed to not just the growing passion for the outdoors but also to the mental health benefits that hiking provides.
Anja Hajnsek of Hut to Hut Hiking Dolomites shares her insights into the growing appeal of hillwalking. With years of experience leading walkers through scenic trails and multi-day hut-to-hut routes, she explains why structured hiking experiences not only attract newcomers but also enhance the mental and physical benefits that make hillwalking Britain’s fastest-growing outdoor activity.
Why Britons are Heading to the Hills
- Mental health benefits: Regular walking or hiking in natural environments reduces stress, lowers anxiety and depressive symptoms, and improves mood.
- Physical wellbeing: Exposure to green spaces supports cardiovascular health, better sleep, and overall resilience against chronic disease.
- Connection with nature: Scenic landscapes, fresh air, and natural light offer a calming escape from urban life. Seasonality doesn’t matter either, as 90% of hillwalkers do so throughout the year.
- Accessible adventure: Hillwalking provides an activity that is low-cost, flexible, and suitable for a wide range of ages and fitness levels. The leisure-based activity is enjoyed even by 55–65-year-olds.
Tips for Beginner Hillwalkers
- Start small and build up: Begin with shorter, well-marked routes to build stamina and confidence before tackling longer or steeper hikes.
- Plan ahead: Check weather forecasts, trail conditions, and daylight hours to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.
- Invest in proper footwear and clothing: Supportive boots, moisture-wicking layers, and waterproofs can make a huge difference to comfort and safety.
- Bring essentials: Water, snacks, a basic first-aid kit, and a map or GPS device can all help you stay prepared on the trail.
- Pace yourself and take breaks: Listen to your body, enjoy the scenery, and allow time for rest. The goal is wellbeing, not speed.
- Consider guided experiences: Guided hut-to-hut hikes or local walking groups can provide support, knowledge of trails, and reassurance for newcomers.
“Hillwalking in Britain has grown tremendously in recent years, and it is easy to see why. People are drawn to the hills not just for exercise but for the chance to escape daily stress, breathe fresh air, and immerse themselves in open landscapes. Moving steadily through trails allows both body and mind to find calm and clarity.
Regular hillwalking encourages presence and mindfulness. Every step, every view, and every pause contributes to a feeling of wellbeing and renewed energy. Beyond the physical benefits, being in nature helps walkers slow down, appreciate their surroundings, and reset mentally in ways that few indoor activities can match.
For those looking to take their experience further, multi-day or guided hut-to-hut hikes can offer a structured way to explore more remote landscapes while maintaining the restorative benefits of the hills. Hillwalking is ultimately a personal and flexible pursuit, offering something for everyone who wants to connect with nature, improve wellbeing, and enjoy the simple joy of being outdoors,” says Trail and Hiking Expert Anja Hajnsek from Hut to Hut Hiking Dolomites.
