Big Views. No Crowds. Ridge Energy on the Down Low.
Everyone’s heard of Crib Goch, Striding Edge, and the Aonach Eagach — and they’re great, no doubt. But what about the quiet ridges, the ones with just as much atmosphere, fewer footprints, and all the drama without the drama?
If you’re looking to avoid the queues, skip the Insta-famous scrambles, and find a ridgeline that feels like your own, this one’s for you.
Here are 8 underrated ridge walks in the UK that deliver sky-high thrills, sweeping views, and that sweet feeling of discovery.
1. Tarmachan Ridge – Central Highlands, Scotland
- Distance: ~10km | 4–5 hours
- Why It’s Underrated: Overshadowed by nearby Ben Lawers, but this rolling ridge with a short scramble is beginner-friendly and incredibly scenic.
- Best Bit: The rocky “rollercoaster” section feels dramatic but manageable.
- Top Tip: Avoid windy days — the exposure is low, but it can feel wild up there.
2. Aran Ridge – Snowdonia (Aran Fawddwy)
- Distance: ~16km | 6–7 hours
- Why It’s Underrated: This southern Snowdonia ridge gets a fraction of the traffic of the Glyderau and Carneddau but is just as impressive.
- Best Bit: Massive views towards Cadair Idris and back over Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake).
- Top Tip: Make it a linear walk from Llanuwchllyn to Cwm Cywarch for the full traverse.
3. Grey Corries Ridge – Lochaber, Scotland
- Distance: ~18km | 7–9 hours
- Why It’s Underrated: Everyone heads for Ben Nevis. Meanwhile, this dramatic quartzite ridge sits next door with 3–4 Munros, airy walking, and no selfie-stick madness.
- Best Bit: Bleached-white rock underfoot and a line of summits like shark fins.
- Top Tip: It’s long and committing — bring plenty of water and an early start.
4. Barrow & Outerside Ridge – Lake District
- Distance: ~8km | 3–4 hours
- Why It’s Underrated: Just next to the Coledale Horseshoe but way less busy. It’s a friendly ridge walk with views over Derwentwater and the northern fells.
- Best Bit: The zigzag path up Barrow is a beaut, and the whole route is picnic-perfect.
- Top Tip: Combine with Causey Pike for a bigger day with an optional mini-scramble.
5. Mynydd Mawr – Snowdonia
- Distance: ~7.5km | 3–4 hours
- Why It’s Underrated: West of Snowdon, Mynydd Mawr offers a sharp, pointed ridge walk with pyramid-like looks and no tourist traffic.
- Best Bit: Cracking view back towards Snowdon and across to the Nantlle Ridge.
- Top Tip: Catch it at golden hour — the summit is a stunning place for sunset.
6. Broad Law Ridge – Southern Uplands, Scotland
- Distance: ~12km | 4–5 hours
- Why It’s Underrated: The Southern Uplands are often overlooked, but Broad Law’s grassy ridgeline is long, sweeping, and perfect for quiet bagging days.
- Best Bit: The path follows a Roman road and the scenery is wide open and wild.
- Top Tip: Ideal in autumn when the bracken turns gold and the heather’s fading purple.
7. Nantlle Ridge (Partial) – Snowdonia
- Distance: ~8–10km | 4–5 hours (linear)
- Why It’s Underrated: Often overshadowed by the Horseshoe, but this scrambly ridge is wild, scenic, and rarely busy.
- Best Bit: Jagged peaks with views down to Llyn Nantlle and across to Yr Wyddfa.
- Top Tip: A car at either end helps — or return via Moel Tryfan to make a circuit.
8. Beinn a’ Chròin & An Caisteal – Crianlarich Hills, Scotland
- Distance: ~13km | 5–6 hours
- Why It’s Underrated: Everyone rushes to Ben More — but this ridge duo offers two Munros and a mild scramble, all with epic Highland views.
- Best Bit: An Caisteal’s “castle-like” summit and the connecting ridge are glorious.
- Top Tip: Go clockwise to keep the rocky bits as an ascent, not descent.
Ridge Walk Ready?
Pack for comfort and confidence:
- Good boots (with grip for grassy ridges)
- Map + compass (not all are signposted)
- Layers — ridgelines = windy
- Poles — especially useful for long grassy descents
- Peaky Baggers app – track your ridge routes and log every summit
Final Thoughts
Not all legendary ridge walks make the headlines — and that’s a good thing. These underrated ridges give you all the height and horizon, with none of the crowds. You might even have the summit to yourself.
Whether you want solitude, scenery, or just a new ridge to fall in love with, these hidden gems are the ones to watch.
Share Your Secret Ridges
Done one of these and didn’t see another soul? We love that for you. Tag #PeakyBaggers and let us know your favourite “why doesn’t everyone walk this?” ridgeline.
Photo by Matthew Waring on Unsplash
