By GB News (World News) | Created at 2025-01-17 14:51:03 | Updated at 2025-01-17 20:31:53
5 hours ago
Those looking to start the year with a UK break may enjoy some of the best staycation spots for hiking.
The trend aligns with New Year's resolutions, as 17 per cent of Britons have pledged to improve their fitness and exercise more this year.
With January's average sunrise time of 8:18am, enthusiasts are taking advantage of the later dawn to reach scenic viewpoints.
The phenomenon has taken social media by storm, with the hashtag "sunrise" garnering over 5.5 million posts on TikTok as walkers share their early morning adventures.
The Peak District topped the list
PA
Experts at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts analysed TikTok and Google search data to identify the most popular hiking destinations for sunrise viewing across Britain.
Mam Tor in the Peak District has emerged as the UK's most sought-after sunrise hiking destination, boasting nearly 10,000 TikTok posts.
A recent TikTok video showcasing the Peak District landmark's sunrise views has gone viral, amassing over 284,000 views and sparking enthusiastic responses.
"This is so beautiful, wow," commented one user, while another expressed: "I wish I was closer to the Peak District because this would be perfect."
The 517-metre hill, known as 'mother hill', offers a moderate, dog-friendly walking route in the High Peak of Derbyshire.
However, visitors are advised to arrive early, as the car park fills quickly due to the location's growing popularity.
Top 10 most popular hiking destinations (number of TikTok posts)
• Mam Tor, Peak District - 9,946 posts
• Malham Landscape Trail, Yorkshire Dales - 3,411 posts
• Tryfan North Ridge, Snowdonia - 3,886 posts
• Cheddar Gorge, Somerset - 5,482 posts
• Snowdon, Snowdonia National Park - 29,700 posts
• Ben Nevis, Scotland - 14,400 posts
• Hadrian's Wall Path, Northumberland - 3,045 posts
• Scafell Pike, Lake District - 5,748 posts
• Jurassic Coast Path, East Devon - 7,436 posts
• Catbells, Lake District - 2,519 posts
The data reveals a strong presence of mountainous regions, with both Snowdonia and the Lake District featuring multiple entries in the rankings.
Snowdonia's prominence in the rankings is particularly notable, with two locations in the top five most popular sunrise hiking spots. Snowdon, Wales's highest mountain at 1,085 metres, has attracted an impressive 29,700 TikTok posts, securing its position in fourth place.
Ben Nevis was in the top 10 list
PA
The mountain's accessibility is enhanced by 24/7 car park availability, making it ideal for early morning ascents. Tryfan North Ridge, also in Snowdonia, shares second place with 3,886 TikTok posts, demonstrating the national park's strong appeal to sunrise enthusiasts.
The region's high elevation provides optimal vantage points for watching the sun emerge over the Welsh landscape.
Director at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts Keith Hawes commented: “Many popular hikes across the UK are accessible by car and have ample parking options at the beginning of the trail, making it the ideal activity to drive to at the weekend or early in the mornings to witness picturesque sunrises.
"Drivers are advised to research the driving route before setting off, as hiking locations across the UK can be in remote locations.
"Arriving in plenty of time is recommended as some locations have limited parking options, and car parks can become full quickly at peak times. Packing a map, water and a torch in your car is always advised when driving to remote locations for a hike or walk.”
