Britain’s cities are fabulous on foot. Whether it’s a saunter through London’s creative East End, discovering Edinburgh’s unmissable viewpoints or strolling through Manchester’s industrial heritage, you can look forward to an eco-friendly city adventure with our themed walking routes.
London | Culture & cuisine in the East End
Packed with culture, creativity and community spirit, this walking route through London’s East End starts at Aldgate East underground station, a one-minute walk from world-class contemporary art at Whitechapel Gallery. Next stop, via a 25-minute walk through Liverpool Street, is the Barbican, where you can look forward to packed programs of cinema, art, music and theatre. Returning to the East End via Shoreditch and Brick Lane, you’ll be greeted by a creative buzz, unique shops and mouth-watering curries. From there, it’s a five-minute walk to Old Spitalfields Market, home to a labyrinth of stalls and independent artisans. Finish this dream adventure with a drink in the historic Ten Bells, an East London institution, opposite the market.
- Start: Whitechapel Gallery
- Finish: Ten Bells pub
- Length: Three miles
London | Parks & politics in Pall Mall
This route reveals London’s towering landmarks and serene parks and starts at Green Park, following the path through the lush lawns until the striking architecture of Buckingham Palace comes into view. After an obligatory selfie, continue along the route to The Mall, a grand ceremonial pathway adorned with Union Jack flags. Adjacent is St James’s Park, a picturesque spot for a picnic or café lunch. Further along this grand road, you’ll encounter Admiralty Arch and Trafalgar Square, as well as masterpieces within the National Gallery. After taking in the fountains and bronze lions, head to The Trafalgar St James rooftop bar for a cocktail with a view, before continuing on to Whitehall, which is home to the historic Horse Guards, the opulent Banqueting House and 10 Downing Street. At the end of Whitehall is the political epicenter of England, Parliament Square, where you can gaze upon the House of Commons and Big Ben, all just a short distance from Westminster Bridge, which offers striking views of the River Thames and Southbank.
- Start: Green Park
- Finish: Westminster Bridge
- Length: Two miles
Manchester | Creativity & crafts in the Northern Quarter
Full of quirky bars, unique shops and visual delights, this route around Manchester’s Northern Quarter begins with some stunning street art. First, you can spy the Blue Tit mural, the area’s visual icon, before heading to nearby Stevenson Square for photo-realistic graffiti of David Bowie. If you’re feeling inspired, tune in at Piccadilly Records, or pick up a vintage outfit at Afflecks Arcade. After bagging a gem, snap more eye-catching street art on Tib Street, before refueling at the nearby Koffee Pot, a local favorite for fry-ups, or English breakfasts. Next, it’s time to sample local creativity at Manchester Craft and Design Centre before continuing the retail therapy at the stylish Deadstock General Store. Finish with a trip to V-Rev Vegan Diner or Terrace NQ, a rooftop bar with sweeping city views.
- Start: Newton Street
- Finish: Terrace NQ
- Length: One mile
History & heritage in central Manchester
If you’re a history buff thinking of a future trip, you can dream of discovering Manchester’s past alongside modern favorites in Ancoats, the world’s first industrial suburb. Starting on Anita Street, you can walk between two rows of Victorian houses built for the local workers of the time before seeing Beehive Mill, one of the oldest mills in the area. Further industrial highlights can be seen along Murray Street and Jersey Street, where the imperious Paragon and Murrays’ Mills dwarf you with industrial majesty. If you’re longing to live like a local, you can head to Cutting Room Square, home to the beloved pizzeria, Rudy’s, and neighborhood bar, The Jane Eyre. Next, continue onto Rochdale Canal and the tranquil New Islington Marina. If heading back into central Manchester, you can complement this heritage tour with a trip to the city’s many vintage shops, such as Blue Rinse Vintage and Pop Boutique, both a 15-minute walk from New Islington Marina.
- Start: Anita Street
- Finish: Oldham Street
- Length: 2 miles
Edinburgh | Viewpoints & vistas via Arthur’s Seat
Packed with panoramic views, historic sites and glorious gardens, this vista-filled walking route around Edinburgh begins at Camera Obscura. Located in Outlook Tower, the attraction includes 360-degree city views from the rooftop terrace. Located just across The Mound and into Princes Street Gardens is our next stop, the iconic Scott Monument, which was built to honor writer Sir Walter Scott. You can climb the 287 winding steps to the top of this gothic-style building, for mesmerizing views of Salisbury Crags. Just half a mile away, through the Georgian architecture of Princes Street, is Calton Hill. This gentle peak takes approximately five minutes to climb via a staircase at Regent Road (south side) or Royal Terrace (north side), rewarding you with outstanding views of the Scottish Parliament, the Palace of Holyroodhouse and the Royal Mile. Having built up an appetite, enjoy an indulgent hilltop meal at The Lookout by Gardener’s Cottage, before walking two miles to Edinburgh’s ultimate viewpoint – the ancient volcano, Arthur’s Seat, with walking routes to suit varying abilities.
- Start: Camera Obscura Museum
- Finish: Arthur’s Seat
- Length: Three miles
Mystery & magic in the heart of Edinburgh
This on-foot adventure through Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns starts at the Georgian House, a restored period town house, before heading to the top of George Street, a shopping highlight and key thoroughfare of New Town. Moving on past Edinburgh Castle, you’ll be transported back in time when reaching the Royal Mile, which is home to the eerie underground world of the Real Mary King’s Close. If you’re a literature lover, you can plan a bite to eat at The Elephant House, rumored to be a favorite writing spot of J. K. Rowling, and discover Greyfriars Kirkyard, a historic graveyard full of Scottish tales and Harry Potter connections. Afterwards, explore the captivating National Museum of Scotland, before concluding this walking tour with a refreshing pint and live folk music at Sandy Bell’s.
- Start: Georgian House
- Finish: Sandy Bell’s pub
- Length: Two miles
Note: Restrictions on travel to and around Britain are in place due to Covid-19. You are encouraged to always check individual attraction websites for the latest information, as details are subject to change.
