The UK’s Newest Trails: What the Coast-to-Coast National Trail Means for Hikers
One of Britain’s most iconic long-distance routes — the Coast-to-Coast Walk — is set to become an official National Trail by late 2025, marking one of the most exciting developments in the UK hiking world in years. According to VisitBritain, the upgrade will increase accessibility, improve infrastructure, and raise the trail’s profile globally.
Whether you’re a seasoned long-distance walker or planning your first major UK adventure, this announcement opens the door to a new era for one of the country’s most loved walking routes.
At Yonder Adventure Company, we’ve seen a growing interest in multi-day walking and challenge-style adventures across the UK. The Coast-to-Coast’s transformation is a perfect opportunity for hikers looking to step into long-distance walking with expert support, planning guidance, or training.
What Is the Coast-to-Coast Walk?
Originally devised by legendary fellwalker Alfred Wainwright, the Coast-to-Coast Walk spans roughly 190 miles, linking:
St Bees on the Irish Sea coast
Across the Lake District
Through the Yorkshire Dales
Over the North York Moors
Ending at Robin Hood’s Bay on the North Sea
It’s not just a walk — it’s a journey through three national parks and some of the most dramatic landscapes in England.
Its upcoming National Trail status makes this iconic journey more accessible than ever before.
What Does Becoming a National Trail Actually Mean?
Turning the Coast-to-Coast into a National Trail is much more than a name change. Here’s what hikers can expect by late 2025:
1. Improved Waymarking & Wayfinding
The route will receive full National Trail signage, reducing navigational complexity and making it more beginner-friendly.
2. Better Path Conditions
Sections prone to erosion, bog, or flooding will be repaired or rerouted, improving safety and year-round accessibility.
3. Enhanced Local Infrastructure
Expect refined paths, upgraded gates and stiles, and better connections between accommodation, transport, and resupply points.
4. Increased Visibility
As an official National Trail, the Coast-to-Coast will attract more national and international attention—great for tourism and local communities, and deeply motivating for hikers.
5. Standardised Route
Wainwright’s original route varies in places; the National Trail version will establish a consistent, waymarked line across England.
If you want help navigating these updates or planning the most efficient version of the route, Yonder Adventure Company offers route-planning and guided preparation sessions.
Why This Is Timely for Walkers
The UK is seeing a boom in long-distance walking, with more people craving immersive outdoor experiences, multi-day adventures, and physical challenges.
The Coast-to-Coast National Trail arrives at the perfect moment:
Increased interest in adventure tourism
A national focus on wellbeing and nature
Improved access to long-distance journeys
Renewed interest in UK-based challenges like the Three Peaks, Welsh 3000s, and classic trails
With the route becoming waymarked and maintained to National Trail standards, more people than ever will be ready to take it on — and many will benefit from professional guidance, planning support, or training before they go.
Who Should Hike the Coast-to-Coast National Trail?
This trail is ideal for:
First-time long-distance hikers
Intermediate walkers looking for a multi-day challenge
Adventure travellers wanting an iconic UK route
Experienced hikers building toward expedition-style journeys
Because the terrain varies widely — from steep Lake District climbs to rolling moors — the Coast-to-Coast offers a perfect blend of challenge and accessibility.
At Yonder, we help hikers evaluate their fitness, choose an itinerary, select gear, and prepare safely.
How to Prepare for the Coast-to-Coast (With or Without Support)
1. Build a Realistic Itinerary
Most hikers complete the route in 12–16 days, depending on speed, fitness, and accommodation style.
We help clients design custom itineraries that match their experience and comfort level.
2. Get Fit for Multi-Day Hiking
Back-to-back hiking days can surprise even experienced walkers. Training is essential.
We can create fitness programs and preparation mountain days to get you ready.
3. Learn Navigation Basics (Even With Waymarking)
National Trail signs help, but weather, visibility, and remote terrain still require competence.
Our navigation courses in Snowdonia and the Lakes are ideal for Coast-to-Coast preparation.
4. Choose the Right Gear
A reliable backpack, waterproofs, footwear, layers, and lightweight camping setup (if wild camping) are essential.
We offer gear advice sessions so you walk with confidence and without unnecessary weight.
5. Understand Weather & Safety
You’ll cross three national parks with rapidly changing conditions. Safety planning is crucial — especially in the Lake District.
Our guides can walk you through seasonal weather patterns and risk management.
What the New Coast-to-Coast Means for the Future of UK Hiking
The upgrade signals a national commitment to long-distance walking. It also positions the UK as a global leader in accessible adventure travel.
Beyond the Coast-to-Coast, it could spark:
New National Trails in development
Increased investment in path maintenance
A rise in guided and supported long-distance experiences
More hikers tackling multi-day and multi-week challenges
If you’re thinking about taking on a major UK walk, 2025–2026 is the perfect time to do it.
How Yonder Adventure Company Can Help
At Yonder, we specialise in supporting hikers who want to push their boundaries—safely, confidently, and with expert guidance.
We offer:
Bespoke mountain days for fitness and skills preparation
Navigation training for first-time trail walkers
Wild camping and expedition skills courses
Route planning sessions for long-distance trails
Private guiding in Snowdonia, the Lakes, and Yorkshire
Training days designed specifically for upcoming long-distance hikes
If you're considering the Coast-to-Coast as your first major UK trail, or you want help preparing for it, we’d love to support your journey.
➡️ Explore our guided days and bespoke experiences at Yonder Adventure Company
➡️ Book a planning session to start preparing
Final Thoughts
The Coast-to-Coast becoming a National Trail marks a transformative moment for UK hiking. With better infrastructure, clearer waymarking, and increased visibility, this historic route is about to become more accessible — and more exciting — than ever.
If you want expert support to prepare, train, or map your own Coast-to-Coast journey, Yonder Adventure Company is here to help you step into your next adventure with confidence.
Let’s get you ready for the UK’s newest National Trail.
