Spring is on the horizon, bringing longer days and warmer weather – perfect for embracing new outdoor adventures. For many, that means lacing up their running shoes, prioritising fitness and exploring the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve your mental well-being, or simply spend more time outside, 2025 is the perfect time to blend fitness with adventure, from hiking to cycling.
But what outdoor adventures are people looking to embrace in 2025, and where are the best places in the UK to try them out?
Outdoor activities are surging in popularity as people look for ways to stay active, challenge themselves, and connect with nature. We’ve examined the activities that saw the most significant increase in searches throughout 2024.
Annual searches | ||||
Rank | Activity | Dec 2022 – Nov 2023 | Dec 2023 – Nov 2024 | Annual change |
1 | Hiking | 310,200 | 905,800 | 192% |
2 | Nature walks | 13,160 | 20,120 | 53% |
3 | Windsurfing | 115,000 | 162,900 | 42% |
4 | Equestrian sports | 8,730 | 11,740 | 34% |
5 | Wild swimming | 88,000 | 113,200 | 29% |
6 | Trail running | 56,000 | 70,500 | 26% |
6 | Rock climbing | 281,900 | 354,700 | 26% |
8 | Foraging | 295,800 | 358,300 | 21% |
9 | Surfing | 279,400 | 331,800 | 19% |
10 | Sailing | 184,800 | 217,700 | 18% |
1. Hiking (192% increase)
Taking the lead with a massive 192% increase in searches, hiking has become the go-to activity for many seeking adventure, fitness, and connecting with nature. Searches soared from 310,200 to 905,800, reflecting its growing popularity as an accessible way to explore the outdoors, enjoy breathtaking landscapes, and enjoy the mental and physical health benefits of staying active.
2. Nature walks (53%)
With a 53% increase, nature walks come in second, popular with those looking for a more relaxed way to connect with the outdoors. Search volumes rose from 13,160 to 20,120, with people increasingly embracing this low-impact activity to unwind and enjoy the natural world without the intensity of more demanding activities.
3. Windsurfing (42%)
Windsurfing rounds out the top three, experiencing a 42% rise in searches, from 115,000 to 162,900. This water-based activity is perfect for thrill-seekers who enjoy a mix of adrenaline and scenery. This reflects a broader interest in water sports, especially as people look for unique ways to stay active and enjoy coastal or lakeside destinations.
Next, we will look at the best places to try out each of the top three activities, starting with hiking. These counties offer a blend of breathtaking scenery and highly rated and diverse trails. Here’s a closer look at the best places for hiking.
Rank | County | Hiking trails per 100,000 people | Average hiking trail review score | Average elevation (m) | Hiking hotspot score /10 |
1 | Cumbria | 424 | 4.4 | 186 | 10.00 |
2 | Highland | 508 | 4.3 | 907 | 9.70 |
3 | Perth and Kinross | 245 | 4.3 | 338 | 9.39 |
4 | Aberdeenshire | 195 | 4.3 | 199 | 9.09 |
5 | North Yorkshire | 189 | 4.3 | 153 | 8.79 |
6 | Monmouthshire | 204 | 4.3 | 136 | 8.48 |
7 | Devon | 112 | 4.4 | 94 | 8.18 |
8 | Pembrokeshire | 153 | 4.5 | 43 | 7.88 |
9 | Northumberland | 124 | 4.3 | 141 | 7.27 |
9 | Stirling | 227 | 4.2 | 161 | 7.27 |
1. Cumbria
Cumbria takes the crown as the ultimate hiking destination, scoring a perfect 10/10 hiking hotspot score. With 424 hiking trails per 100,000 people, it has many options for adventurers. The county is home to the iconic Lake District National Park, renowned for its picturesque lakes, rugged peaks, and charming villages.
Its trails, such as Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak, and Helvellyn, have an impressive average review score of 4.4, reflecting the quality of hiking experiences here. The average elevation of 186 metres ensures a mix of accessible routes and challenging climbs.
2. Highland
The Highland region of Scotland offers many hiking experiences, earning a score of 9.7/10. With 508 trails per 100,000 people, it has the highest trail density in the rankings, making it a hiker’s paradise.
The dramatic landscapes, including towering Munros like Ben Nevis, the UK’s highest mountain, are reflected in the average elevation of 907 metres. Despite the rugged terrain, trails have an impressive average review score of 4.3, appealing to locals and visitors alike. The Highlands are a must-visit for those seeking wild, untamed beauty.
3. Perth & Kinross
Perth and Kinross round out the top three with a 9.39/10 hiking hotspot score. This central Scottish region offers 245 trails per 100,000 people and an average elevation of 338 metres, delivering stunning panoramic views without being overly challenging.
From the serene beauty of Loch Leven to the dramatic ascent of Schiehallion, hikers can enjoy trails that earn an average review score of 4.3. Perth and Kinross’s blend of natural beauty and accessible routes makes it an excellent destination for hikers of all levels.
Regarding nature walks, the top counties stand out for their abundance of wildlife trails, scenic nature reserves, and lush green spaces. Here are the best spots for a nature walk experience.
Rank | County | Wildlife trails | Average wildlife trail review score | Nature reserves | Trails with wildflowers | Population within ten minutes of a green space | Average tree cover in urban local authorities | Nature walk hotspot score /10 |
1 | Devon | 600 | 4.4 | 10 | 60.7% | 81.6% | 18.5% | 10.00 |
2 | Hampshire | 792 | 4.2 | 9 | 58.2% | 87.4% | 20.6% | 9.68 |
3 | Surrey | 626 | 4.3 | 3 | 63.0% | 87.2% | 27.9% | 9.35 |
4 | Cumbria | 1,469 | 4.4 | 27 | 51.1% | 80.9% | 13.0% | 9.03 |
5 | Derbyshire | 845 | 4.4 | 4 | 49.8% | 90.7% | 15.4% | 8.71 |
6 | West Sussex | 457 | 4.3 | 2 | 60.3% | 88.1% | 18.0% | 8.39 |
7 | East Sussex | 313 | 4.4 | 4 | 55.9% | 84.5% | 17.0% | 8.06 |
8 | Suffolk | 222 | 4.3 | 8 | 51.6% | 93.6% | 15.7% | 7.74 |
9 | Somerset | 364 | 4.3 | 7 | 51.3% | 85.3% | 15.7% | 7.10 |
9 | Monmouthshire | 123 | 4.4 | 5 | 57.0% | 76.5% | 18.4% | 7.10 |
1. Devon
Devon leads the way with a perfect 10/10 nature walk hotspot score. The county offers 600 wildlife trails, all highly rated, with an average review score of 4.4. With ten nature reserves and six in ten trails featuring wildflowers, nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore.
The stunning landscapes, ranging from coastal paths to lush woodlands, are complemented by 81.6% tree cover in urban areas, adding to the area’s natural appeal. Devon’s combination of rich biodiversity, accessibility, and green spaces makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Dartmoor National Park in Devon provides rolling hills and historic tors for a peaceful yet picturesque setting.
2. Hampshire
Hampshire is another top destination for nature walks, scoring 9.68/10. The county offers 792 wildlife trails, with a solid 4.2 average review score. Hampshire also boasts nine nature reserves and almost three in five (58.2%) trails feature wildflowers, making it an excellent choice for those who want to experience the beauty of native flora and fauna.
The impressive 87.4% tree cover in urban areas and over a fifth (20.6%) of the population within ten minutes of a green space add to its appeal, providing easy access to nature, even in urban areas. The New Forest in Hampshire offers stunning woodland trails and abundant wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature walks.
3. Surrey
Surrey comes in third with a 9.35/10 nature walk hotspot score. The county has 626 wildlife trails, receiving an average review score of 4.3. While it has fewer nature reserves than some, with only three in total, it makes up for it, with almost two-thirds (63%) of trails featuring wildflowers.
Surrey’s urban areas have 87.2% tree cover, making them fantastic locations for nature walks close to home. With almost three in ten (27.9%) of the population living within ten minutes of a green space, Surrey provides plenty of opportunities to step outside and enjoy its natural beauty, like Box Hill, known for its sweeping views, ancient woodlands, and varied walking trails perfect for all fitness levels.
For windsurfing enthusiasts, the top three counties in the UK offer a mix of stunning beaches, clean waters, and vibrant windsurfing communities.
Rank | County | Windsurfing beaches | Water cleanliness (counted spills) | Water sports activities | Average water temperature (ºC) | Windsurfing events | Average bathing water quality score /3 | Windsurfing hotspot score /10 |
1 | Dorset | 28 | 7,591 | 20 | 11.5 | 8 | 3 | 10.00 |
2 | Cornwall | 17 | 16,605 | 36 | 10.1 | 1 | 3 | 9.55 |
3 | Anglesey | 14 | 4,047 | 6 | 10.2 | 2 | 2 | 9.09 |
4 | Hampshire | 10 | 6,029 | 14 | 9.6 | 4 | 2 | 8.64 |
5 | Pembrokeshire | 15 | 10,294 | 16 | 9.6 | 0 | 3 | 8.18 |
6 | Devon | 20 | 40,822 | 35 | 9.0 | 0 | 3 | 7.73 |
7 | Highland | 4 | 1,105 | 6 | 10.4 | 0 | 3 | 7.27 |
8 | East Sussex | 12 | 8,092 | 12 | 8.7 | 0 | 2 | 6.82 |
9 | West Sussex | 19 | 6,101 | 9 | 8.7 | 0 | 2 | 6.36 |
10 | Dumfries and Galloway | 1 | 483 | 0 | 8.8 | 2 | 2 | 5.91 |
1. Dorset
Dorset secures the top spot with a perfect 10/10 windsurfing hotspot score, making it the premier location for windsurfing. The county boasts 28 windsurfing beaches, offering plenty of variety for all skill levels. Dorset’s waters are both inviting and clean, with an average bathing water quality score of three and 7,591 counted spills, suggesting good water cleanliness.
The average water temperature of 11.5°C makes it one of the warmest locations for windsurfing. With eight windsurfing events and a thriving water sports scene, Dorset is an unbeatable hotspot for windsurfing enthusiasts. Weymouth in Dorset is a renowned windsurfing hotspot, offering calm yet breezy conditions for beginners and seasoned windsurfers.
2. Cornwall
Cornwall comes in second with an impressive 9.55/10 windsurfing hotspot score. Known for its iconic beaches, the county offers 17 windsurfing beaches and 36 water sports activities, making it ideal for adrenaline seekers. While its water temperature averages 10.1°C, slightly cooler than Dorset, it has pristine waters with an average bathing water quality score of three.
Cornwall hosts one windsurfing event, and its 16,605 counted spills indicate a more mixed water cleanliness level, but it remains a top destination for windsurfing and water sports enthusiasts. Daymer Bay in Cornwall is one of the best windsurfing spots, known for its consistent winds and excellent conditions at various skill levels.
3. Anglesey
Anglesey, the scenic island in Wales, ranks third with a score of 9.09/10. With 14 windsurfing beaches, it offers a range of stunning coastal spots for windsurfing. The island has a solid average bathing water quality score of two, with 4,047 counted spills, showing decent cleanliness. Its average water temperature of 10.2°C is on par with Cornwall.
While there are fewer water sports activities and only two windsurfing events in Anglesey, its natural beauty and reliable conditions make it an excellent destination for windsurfing. Rhosneigr is a prime location known for its strong winds and stunning coastal scenery.
First, we created a list of outdoor hobbies and found the most commonly used search term for each. The number of searches for each was sourced using Google Ads Keyword Planner for the most recent twelve months available (December 2023 – November 2024) and compared to the previous twelve months to see which have increased the most.
This revealed that the activities with the most significant increases are:
We then used articles to create lists of the top counties in the UK for each.
The counties were compared on the following factors for each category. Each was given a normalised score out of ten for every factor, and the overall average of these scores was taken.
Hiking
Nature walks
Windsurfing