How to Plan a Solo Hiking Trip in the UK

Everything You Need to Know to Walk Alone, Safely and Confidently

There’s something uniquely powerful about solo hiking. No compromises, no rushing — just you, your pack, and the trail ahead. Whether you’re craving solitude, building confidence, or simply want to test yourself, hiking alone in the UK can be deeply rewarding.

That said, going solo comes with added responsibilities — particularly around navigation and safety. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to plan your first solo trip with confidence, from choosing the right route to packing smart and staying safe.

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1. Why Hike Solo?

Hiking alone means moving at your own pace, taking breaks when you want, and truly immersing yourself in the landscape. There’s no pressure to chat, no need to wait for others — it’s just your thoughts, your steps, and the trail.

Solo hiking can feel daunting at first, especially when you’re new to the hills. But with careful planning, it’s completely doable — and incredibly empowering.

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2. Choose the Right Route

The best solo hiking routes are safe, scenic, and manageable based on your current experience.

Consider:

• Trail length and total ascent
  
• Path clarity and waymarking
  
• Access to mobile signal
  
• Proximity to help if needed
  

For your first few solo trips, stick to well-trodden trails where you’re unlikely to be completely isolated.

Beginner-friendly areas include:

• The Great Ridge (Mam Tor to Lose Hill), Peak District
  
• Loughrigg Fell or Wansfell Pike, Lake District
  
• Cadair Idris (Minffordd Path), Snowdonia
  
• Ben Ledi or Meall a’ Bhuachaille, Scottish Highlands
  

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3. Navigation and Route Planning

Good navigation = safe solo hiking. Use:

• An OS map and compass (and learn the basics)
  
• GPX tracks or route apps like Peaky Baggers
  
• A printed route description for extra clarity
  

Always download your route offline — mobile signal is patchy in the hills. Allow more time than you would in a group; solo hikers often take more breaks and need more margin for error.

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4. Tell Someone Your Plans

One of the most important safety steps: tell someone your full plan. Share:

• Where you’re parking or starting from
  
• Which route you’re taking
  
• When you expect to be back
  
• When they should call for help if they don’t hear from you
  

Stick to the route unless you need to change it — and let them know if you’re delayed.

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5. Pack for Self-Sufficiency

When you’re solo, there’s no one else to borrow a map or snack from — so pack like a pro.

Essentials:

• Map, compass, GPS device or app
  
• Waterproofs (jacket and trousers)
  
• First aid kit, emergency bivvy or foil blanket
  
• Warm layers (even in summer)
  
• Headtorch with fresh batteries
  
• Food and at least 2L of water
  
• Fully charged phone and power bank
  
• Whistle and small multi-tool
  

Don’t overload your pack, but don’t skip safety gear either — especially in remote areas.

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6. Trust Your Instincts and Be Ready to Turn Back

Solo hiking gives you the freedom to make decisions — including calling it a day early. If the weather turns, the path becomes unclear, or something just doesn’t feel right, there’s no shame in changing plans.

A good rule: if you haven’t summited or reached halfway by 3pm, consider turning back, especially in shoulder seasons when daylight is limited.

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7. Mindset: Walking Alone, Not Lonely

Being solo doesn’t mean being lonely — but it’s okay if it feels strange at first.

Tips to stay grounded:

• Focus on what’s around you: the sounds, views, terrain
  
• Take regular breaks to check in with yourself
  
• Use music or a podcast if the silence feels too heavy
  
• Remind yourself that feeling a bit nervous is totally normal
  

Solo confidence grows with each hike. Start small and build.

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8. Best UK Areas for Solo Hikers

Not all wild places are wildly remote. Great solo-friendly areas include:

• North York Moors: scenic, well-marked, and easy to navigate
  
• Brecon Beacons: well-mapped routes and plenty of day hike options
  
• Cairngorms (main trails): clearly marked paths and popular circuits
  
• Glen Coe (if experienced): dramatic and well-travelled
  

Stick to popular routes for your early trips, then explore further afield as your confidence builds.

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Final Thoughts: Solo But Not Alone

Solo hiking isn’t just about being alone in the hills — it’s about trusting yourself. You plan your route, carry your gear, check your map, make the decisions — and that’s where the freedom lies.

It doesn’t need to be big or dramatic. Your first solo hike could be a two-hour loop — and that’s enough. Build experience gradually, trust your instincts, and give yourself credit for every step.

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Photo by Subhaan Saleem on Unsplash