Hiking has grown in popularity over the last few years, seeing a 192% growth in popularity in 2024 alone! When we hear or see the word hiking, we instantly think mountains, isolation and far-removed from the city. Now this may be the ideal, for some of us it isn’t necessarily accessible. Whether that be due to lack of access to a car, current fitness levels or just having no clue where you could start, there are many barriers between city-dweller and getting outdoors.
With this, there has also been a rise in urban hiking. But what is urban hiking? It’s essentially hiking but focused more towards exploring urban areas such as cities on foot, typically seeking out green spaces away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
With this, there has also been a rise in urban hiking. But what is urban hiking? It’s essentially hiking but focused more towards exploring urban areas such as cities on foot, typically seeking out green spaces away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.
Merrell and their Moab Speed 2 are pushing the limits when it comes to hiking. Suitable for both the great outdoors and the urban environment. Featuring a Vibram TC5+ outsole with 4mm lugs to provide exceptional traction for multiple types of terrain, with the lug design built to shed debris with every step. The GORE-TEX waterproof membrane provides added protection from the elements, while the FloatPro Foam midsole and lightweight FlexPlate technology provided added comfort and greater stability under foot, allowing you to deal with the harsher terrain when needed. Built to perform in all types of conditions, the shoe is perfect for your urban hiking and outdoor adventures.
With this in mind, we’ve teamed up with Merrell to bring you our top 10 urban hikes you can do across the UK.
1. Arthur’s Seat – Edinburgh, Scotland
Distance: 4.3 km
In the heart of Edinburgh lies Arthur’s Seat, which sits high above the skyline of Edinburgh looking over the entire city in Holyrood Park. The hike up to Arthur’s Seat is a proper hill walk, sitting 251m high and offering plenty of different trails to make your way up to the top, this easy-to-access hike must be at the top of your list when in Edinburgh.
2. Heaton Park – Manchester, England
Distance: 4.5 km
Sitting north of the city centre, Heaton Park is one of the largest urban park areas in Europe. With plenty of trails, open green space and a few lakes situated around the park. With plenty of amenities including cafes, an animal centre and a bowls pavilion, this is a great spot for a day away from Manchester City Centre.
3. Cardiff Bay to Barry island – Cardiff, Wales
Distance: 23.7 km
Leave the city of Cardiff and head to the infamous Barry Island, this walk is perfect for those looking for a full day excursion. Walking along the sea front with views across the Bristol Channel, you’ll also have views of the estuary after passing towns such as Penarth and Sully before arriving in Barry for an afternoon at Barry Island.
4. Rising Sun Park – Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, England
Distance: 5 km
Circling Rising Sun Country Park and Swallow Pond, this route is great way to find some solitude within the city. The walk is relatively flat and accessible from the city, so is a great option for a nearby escape!
5. Hampstead Heath – London, England
Distance: 7.2 km
Passing Parliament Hill, Kenwood viewpoint and the café on Parliament Hill, it’s a great spot to escape the madness of London. Offering plenty of green space, this spot is great for hikers who want easy access from the city, where you can head up Parliament Hill to catch a great view of the city.
6. Liverpool Waterfront & Parks Circular – Liverpool, England
Distance: 16.1 km
A walk of two-halves, you’ll firstly enjoy the views across the Mersey walking along the waterfront, passing the famous Albert Dock, water sports centre and heading on towards Otterspool Promenade. You’ll then head away from the waterfront and through Sefton Park and Princes Park before heading back to the city centre.
7. Kelvin Walkway – Glasgow, Scotland
Distance: 9.2 km
This out-and-back route takes you up along the river Kelvin, where you can veer off trail to check out the likes of Dawsholm Park Nature Reserve and Kelvingrove park, which is a perfect spot to start or end the walk and ideal for grabbing a coffee.
8. Meanwood Valley Trail Circular – Leeds, England
Distance: 8.9 km
On this scenic trail, you’ll be taking in the trails of The Hollies, Meanwood park and Scotland Wood. The walk takes you along trails and in-parts along A roads, but this doesn’t mean you won’t be able to escape the noise during the scenic walk.
9. Rivelin Valley Trail – Sheffield, England
Distance: 3.2 km
This shorter route is a must visit from Sheffield, walking along an incredible wooded river valley which holds the remains of the area’s industrial past. You’ll pass watermills and mill dams; the walk also has a cafe on route which is a great chance to stop for a drink on your outing.
10. Clifton Down & Suspension Bridge Circular – Bristol, England
Distance: 7.1 km
Starting at the Clifton Suspension Bridge, you’ll pass spots like Ghyston’s Cave while following along the River Afon before returning to the start. If you’re looking to extend this one, you can even head off trail and over towards the University of Bristol Botanic Garden.
Urban hiking has a lot to offer and is a great way of getting outdoors, especially if you live in a city. Make sure to wear the correct footwear and pack the right clothing to protect you from the elements, but most of all, remember to enjoy your “escape” from the city!
