Members' Exclusive Content

Historical walks

Any season is great to go exploring and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for an amble or an invigorating hike, we’ve curated a selection of walks that take in some of our most atmospheric properties. 

Our walks have been created to take into account varying levels of ability. Please only set off if you are comfortable with the distance and difficulty level indicated. These walks are also intended as a guide only – use your usual mapping tools to plan your walks, and make sure you plan ahead for any stops and facilities requirements, including parking, toilets and refreshments. 

SOUTH

PODCAST: Explore England's Story on a Pilgrimage Walk

We join Guy Hayward and Jason Goodwin from the British Pilgrimage Trust to walk a section of the South Dorset Old Stones Way – one of 10 historic trails taking in English Heritage sites en-route.

Listen on to discover the meaning of pilgrimage, the mental and physical benefits of exploring our past, and what you can expect to discover along the way.

Discover the Pilgrimages

Member Recommendations

We asked our Members to recommend their favourite places to visit during the winter months; here are some of the fantastic suggestions they sent in:

  • BATTLE ABBEY, EAST SUSSEX

    'I like to walk around the grounds of the abbey in winter because it evokes a real sense of history. I can imagine ice being taken from the ponds to fill the ice house during winters far colder than they are now.' Kam Haviland from East Sussex

  • AUDLEY END, ESSEX

    'The grounds are beautiful and atmospheric, with the house emerging from the layer of mist off the river. The kitchen gardens are a constant source of inspiration and show that there is plenty to be done, even in winter.' Josie Gowler from East Sussex

  • Kenilworth Castle, Warwickshire

    'Once you’ve braved the cold to walk up to the viewing platforms you get a fantastic view, and far more without the leaves on the trees. Then head to the excellent tea room for a warming cuppa, a super soup or a hearty hotpot. Perfect!' Kate Drake from Kettering

  • Wrest Park, Bedfordshire

    'The grounds of Wrest Park are suitable for walks in all weather, whether in the open or under trees, grass or gravel. It’s not too big and a cup of tea is available when you’re ready, or a couple of tasters from the wine or jam in the shop.' Janet Stow from Bedfordshire

  • Furness Abbey, Cumbria

    'The ancient setting of Furness Abbey gives it such a history and connection to the coastal plains. It’s a dramatic setting and yet so close to Barrow-in-Furness. It’s an absolute gem.' Nigel Dawson from Lancashire

  • Rievaulx Abbey, North Yorkshire

    'If you visit on a winter’s day with spells of intense sunshine interspersed with short periods of rain, the low sun angle and wet conditions really accentuate the brilliant detail of the ragged ruins and their formidable shadows.' Nancy Vickery from North Yorkshire

  • Byland Abbey, North Yorkshire

    'Solitude. Monastic peace and quiet. A little birdsong. In other words, perfection.' Diana Prestwich from North Yorkshire

  • Beeston Castle, Cheshire

    'The views from the top are always wonderful, even when the sky is grey and heavy. There’s less competition in winter for the vantage points, and the walk through the woodlands is so quiet, you can almost believe you’re alone.' Bennett Foster from Merseyside

Image: A family visiting Portchester Castle

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English Heritage Members enjoy unlimited access to over 400 historic properties. They also receive free or discounted entry to hundreds of historic events around the country, from medieval jousts to family adventure quests. Plus, at no extra cost, Family Members can visit our sites with up to six children for free. Members also receive our Members’ Magazine and a handbook, which has detailed information on all our sites, and you’ll also have the chance to make savings on a range of other attractions.

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