Scotland is home to some of the UK's most incredible walks and it seems the internet agrees after two were named in a list which picked out the most searched for routes across Britain.
Research by the waterproof accessory retailer, Sealskinz , analysed the most searched for walking routes in the UK, revealing which are consistently popular amongst the public.
Scotland’s own Ben Nevis is consistently popular year on year for searches, with over two million people looking for routes up the mountain within the past two years. The West Highland Way also made the top 10 most-searched routes.
A spokesperson for Sealskinz said: "The UK is known for its scenic walks, with hundreds of different routes across the nation. So much so that mountain walking is one of the most popular sports in the UK, with almost three million of us enjoying a hike at least twice a month."
The research found that steeper mountainous walks are the most searched for, suggesting UK walkers like a challenge.
Whether it be for the scenery, accessibility or fresh air, the retailers’ research reveals that the north of the UK has the most popular outdoor walking routes, with eight of the top 10 located in the north.
The retailer also found that UK walkers favour routes by water, with the majority of the top 10 passing by rivers, reservoirs, or coastlines.
The 'top 10 walks' in the UK are:
- Snowdon, Wales
- Ben Nevis, Scotland
- Scafell Pike, Lake District
- Helvellyn, Lake District
- Mam Tor, Derbyshire
- Ingleton Falls Trail, Lancashire
- Malvern Hills, Worcestershire
- Brimham Rocks, North Yorkshire
- West Highland Way, Scotland
- Old Harry Rocks, Dorset
Unsurprisingly, summer is peak walking season, as August was revealed as the most popular time of year for walking-related searches, closely followed by July.
James Moody, director of Sealskinz, gives some helpful tips on how to be prepared for all types of weather, he said: "It’s important to keep your feet, hands and head warm and dry when outdoors at winter to avoid discomfort and illness. Investing in waterproof socks, gloves and hats for any time of year is advisable as the UK’s weather can be unpredictable .
"Many people believe the more layers, the better, but it’s more effective to have less layers made from efficient materials.
"Wool is best as it’s durable and a great insulator to help keep you warm and dry, plus it can also stay warm even when wet.
"Breathability is also important when hiking, as feet will release sweat, even in cold weather. Once your feet are wet, issues, such as blisters, numbness and frostbite may even occur. Merino wool and nylon are both very breathable and great for hiking ."
READ MORE: Interactive map of the best dog-friendly beaches in the UK launched
READ MORE: Private island off Shetland with six-bed mansion and farmhouse on market for £1.75m
READ MORE: Online debate erupts over epic 'Scotland is heaven' TikTok as people say it's 'too perfect'
READ MORE: Fairy Pools on Skye named 'most popular waterfall in the UK'
Don't miss the top culture and heritage stories from around Scotland. Sign up to our twice weekly Scotland Now newsletter here.
