Three Family-Friendly New Year Walks to Start 2025 Off Right

Lake District, Northumberland and the Yorkshire Dales

As the clock strikes midnight and a new year begins, there’s no better way for families to refresh and recharge than to step outside, breathe in the crisp winter air, and explore the natural beauty of the UK’s stunning landscapes. Here are three walks that are perfect for families, combining breathtaking scenery, mild winter weather and a chance to make some lasting memories.

1. Lake District: Tarn Hows Circular Walk

Distance: 1.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Best for: Families with young children or strollers

The Lake District, known for its tranquil lakes and dramatic landscapes, offers a perfect setting for a New Year’s Day walk. One of the best routes for families is the Tarn Hows Circular Walk, a leisurely loop that takes in stunning views of Tarn Hows itself—a picturesque lake nestled in the hills. The route is flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for young children, prams and even wheelchairs.

Along the way, you’ll spot wildlife such as ducks and swans, and the surrounding mountains provide a dramatic backdrop. The walk can easily be extended if your family wants to explore further, but it’s a fantastic starting point for a simple, yet beautiful walk that introduces the new year with peace and natural beauty.

2. Northumberland: Hadrian’s Wall: Housesteads to Steel Rigg

Distance: 4 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 2 to 3 hours
Best for: Families with older children or those looking for a bit of history

For families with older children or those looking for a slightly more challenging walk, the Hadrian’s Wall: Housesteads to Steel Rigg route in Northumberland offers a unique combination of history and natural beauty. This walk follows part of the iconic Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to Roman times. As you hike, you'll walk past ancient ruins, including the Housesteads Roman Fort, which offers a fascinating glimpse into history.

The views along the route are incredible, stretching across the rugged landscape of Northumberland National Park, with the wall winding through dramatic, undulating terrain. The walk can be completed in a few hours, making it perfect for an active family outing after the holiday season. Make sure to bring a thermos of hot chocolate for a break and enjoy the stillness of the winter landscape.

3. Yorkshire Dales: Malham Cove and Gordale Scar Circular

Distance: 5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Time: 2 to 3 hours
Best for: Families with adventurous teens or older children

If your family loves a bit of adventure, the Malham Cove and Gordale Scar Circular in the Yorkshire Dales is the perfect way to celebrate the New Year. This walk takes you through two of the Dales' most famous landmarks—Malham Cove, a stunning limestone amphitheatre, and Gordale Scar, a dramatic gorge with waterfalls.

Starting in the picturesque village of Malham, the walk leads you up to the towering limestone cliffs of Malham Cove. The views from the top are nothing short of spectacular, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and hills. From there, head to Gordale Scar, where you’ll be able to explore the awe-inspiring gorge and perhaps even climb some of its rocky paths, depending on the weather conditions.

This is a bit more challenging than the other walks on our list, so it’s ideal for families with older children or teens who are up for a slightly more strenuous hike. Be prepared for some uneven ground, especially in winter, and make sure to wear sturdy footwear.

A family walk in the great outdoors is the perfect way to begin the new year. So, wrap up warm, pack some snacks, and head out on one of these spectacular walks—2025 is waiting, and it’s best experienced on foot, surrounded by nature. Happy New Year and happy hiking!

Looking for more walking inspiration? Look no further than our Go Card range of walking postcards, there's plenty of family-friendly walks in the Lake District and Yorkshire!