Blow away the cobwebs with these five winter walks

Wrap up warm and embrace the great outdoors with one of these five awesome winter ambles from across the GWR network. Explore exciting walking routes through historical towns, over breath-taking hills, towards the sea and beyond.

To start your journey, simply book train tickets to your destination in advance for the best travel deals before embarking on an idyllic afternoon stroll.

Regency town

Cheltenham
The beautiful spa town of Cheltenham sits on the edge of the Cotswolds and is home to some of the most impressive Regency-era buildings in the UK. Offering an abundance of history and charm, Cheltenham is a cracking place to visit for a weekend walk.

Our recommended circular route is less than thee-miles long and is a great introduction to this stunning town. Start your stroll at The Old Courthouse pub on County Court Road and make your way to Trinity Church via Pittville Street and Portland Street.

From Trinity Church to Pittville Park, you’ll discover the birthplace of world-famous composer Gustav Holst at Number 4 Clarence Road. Once you arrive at Pittville Park, walk along Pittville Lawn, past stunning terraced houses, and enter the parkland, walking in the direction of the grand Pittville Pump Room.

Towards the western half of the park, the Boat House awaits, and walkers can head from here to Clarence Square, towards St Mary’s Church, past Neptune’s Fountain and back to The Old Courthouse for a well-deserved post-walk drink.

Best beach stroll

Falmouth
Famous for its harbour, coastal culture and seafood, Falmouth is a great place for a sandy stroll by the sea. Enjoy a glorious four-mile walk from the train station to Pendennis Point, which offers breath-taking views across to the Roseland peninsula.

From Falmouth Town Station, walk onto Avenue Road towards Gyllyngvase Road to Cliff Road, and drop down to Gyllyngvase Beach – one of the most popular beaches in Cornwall, boasting a wide stretch of golden sand. You can follow the coastal path along Cliff Road and Castle Drive, which will take you towards Pendennis Point.

Historical amble

Salisbury
Salisbury Cathedral houses the world’s oldest working clock, Britain’s tallest spire, and one of the original copies of the Magna Carta, making it one of the most popular cities to visit in the UK.

There are a number of top walking routes to be enjoyed in historical Salisbury but one of our favourites begins in Queen Elizabeth Gardens, just outside the city centre. From here, you’ll find amazing views of the cathedral and River Avon, and the park also provides access to the Town Path that sits alongside the water meadows (where the artist John Constable painted his famous Salisbury scene).

Make tracks towards The Old Mill Hotel at Harnham for a spot of lunch – this hotel is housed in a 15th century building with features that date back to 1250 – before looping back towards Salisbury via the Cathedral Close.

Top scenery

Malvern Hills
Put on your walking boots for this unforgettable climb of the Worcestershire Beacon from Great Malvern train station. Be prepared for a stiff up-hill hike through the town centre towards St Ann’s Road past the Red Lion pub, and via St Ann’s Well, which offers a smoother walking surface and a café to boot.

From here, you can continue your walk to the Worcestershire Beacon, which is the highest point on the Malvern Hills. On a clear day, you’ll discover panoramic views across much of Herefordshire and Worcestershire and beyond.

Down by the canal

Bridgwater and Taunton
The path from the Bridgwater Marina to Taunton runs for approximately 14 miles and is a fantastic way to see the Somerset countryside. Whether you choose to walk the whole way or a smaller part of the route, you’ll be privy to a number of interesting locks and old bridges, as well as beautiful wildlife. Catch your breath and stop for a bite to eat at The Boat and Anchor Inn, which sits alongside the canal in Huntworth.