New research has ranked UK’s best winter walks, highlighting Scottish trails with the most sunshine, least rain, calmest winds, and highest popularity.
04:30, 31 Jan 2026
Scotland has plenty of walking trails showcase rugged landscapes, tranquil lochs, and historic villages(Image: Getty Images)
Scotland’s landscapes offer some of the most breathtaking winter walking opportunities in the UK, with rugged coastlines, ancient villages, and tranquil lochs providing a serene backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Despite the colder months and shorter days, many of the nation’s trails are ideal for walkers seeking quiet paths, fresh air, and dramatic scenery away from the summer crowds.
New research by self-guided walking holiday operator Celtic Trails has ranked the sunniest winter walks across the UK, highlighting Scottish routes that combine scenic beauty with calmer weather and minimal rainfall.
The study assessed 26 popular trails based on five key factors: average monthly hours of sunshine, total rainfall, days of rain, wind speed between January and March, all gathered through Met Office data analysis. Google search popularity also played a role in results. Each factor was weighted to generate a final winter walks score out of 100.
So if you want to get out for some fresh air while keeping your risk of enduring bad weather to a minimum, check out our list below.
Fife Coastal Path
The Fife Coastal Path has come out on top for Scotland’s sunniest walk(Image: Getty Images)
Leading the list of brightest winter walks in Scotland is the Fife Coastal Path, which runs from Kincardine to Newburgh along the Fife coastline. The path scored 88 out of 100, tying for the highest expected hours of sunshine at 68 per month and ranking among the top for lowest daily rainfall and fewest days of rain.
The route passes through historic former fishing villages, St Andrews with its ancient university and famous golf course, golden beaches, nature reserves, and industrial towns including Kirkcaldy and Leven. Walkers also encounter historical sites, from ruined castles to Pictish carvings in the Wemyss Caves.
John Muir Way
Central Scotland’s John Muir Way comes fifth in the ranking, scoring 85 out of 100. Stretching 134 miles coast to coast, it retraces the steps of the Dunbar-born conservationist who became a key figure in America’s National Parks. The route passes through diverse landscapes, from Loch Lomond to rural farmlands near the Campsie Fells, following old roads and disused railway lines.
John Muir Way in central part of Scotland it retraces the steps of the Dunbar-born conservationist who became a key figure in America’s National Parks(Image: Getty Images)
It also incorporates sections of the Forth and Clyde Canal. Walkers can also explore Linlithgow, Edinburgh’s outskirts, and East Lothian before finishing in Dunbar, Muir’s birthplace.
Borders Abbeys Way
Borders Abbeys Way, a circular trail connecting Kelso, Jedburgh, Melrose, and Dryburgh, took sixth place with a score of 84.
While it can be wet at times, Borders Abbeys Way has made the list of Scotland’s sunniest walks(Image: Southern Upland Way, Borders Abbeys Way by Alex McGregor via Wikimedia Commons)
Linking four magnificent ruined abbeys, the 107-kilometre route passes through charming towns, pastoral countryside, and along the Rivers Tweed and Teviot, both famous for salmon fishing.
Despite ranking lower in popularity online, the trail boasts high sunshine hours and low rainfall, making it an ideal winter walk.
Top 10 Sunniest Winter Walks
Among England’s offerings, The Ridgeway National Trail tops the overall UK ranking with a score of 90, followed by Pennine Way in second place with 88.
The Dales Way and Coleridge Way also feature in the top ten, alongside Wales’ Pembrokeshire Coast Path and Anglesey Coast Path.
Christina, spokesperson for Celtic Trails, emphasised the appeal of walking in winter, saying: “Winter often puts people off walking, but it really shouldn’t.
“Our research shows that some of the UK’s most popular long-distance trails are actually at their best in the colder months, with less rain, calmer winds and more sunshine than many walkers expect.”
She added: “Routes like The Ridgeway work particularly well in winter because they sit on higher, well-drained ground. They were used for travel long before modern paths existed, so they’re naturally suited to year-round walking and don’t turn into mud baths after a few wet days.”
Christina concluded: “Choosing the right trail makes all the difference. Winter walking can mean quieter paths, big open views and a real sense of space, without the crowds that arrive later in the year.
“With a bit of planning and the right kit, winter can be one of the most enjoyable times to get out and explore the UK on foot.”