We’ve had some pretty remarkable weather in Manchester (and the wider UK) lately, and although things are getting a bit more changeable, we’re most definitely in the mood to get out and about in the region. With that in mind, the best spots for a sunset hike have been revealed, and our very own Peak District does not disappoint – catch us there for good grub and a pint in a beer garden, before heading out for the best views possible.
Ahead of (hopefully) brighter days, the outdoor experts at Blacks have analysed data on average sunset times, cloud coverage, and the number of hiking trails across UK regions. Each factor was normalised into a score out of 10, with earlier sunsets, higher trail density and lower cloud cover scoring more favourably.
The final index score was calculated by taking the average of the three factor scores, revealing the 10 best destinations for a sunset hike.
The Peak District has been named the second-best area in the UK for a sunset hike
The gritstone edges that can be seen in a lot of Peak District walks reflect beautiful sunset colours, and the high peaks offer panoramic views of nearby valleys. Ridges, including the Bamford Edge and Stanage Edge, are often considered the best sunset views, with Bamford Edge just 20 minutes away from the layby, meaning that hikers don’t have to walk too far in the dark once the sun sets.
Other top spots for a sunset hike
The South Downs take the top spot as the best place to watch sunsets. With famous walks such as ‘Seven Sisters’, ‘Meon Valley Trail’ and ‘Cissbury Ring Walk’, hikers have plenty of choice where to hike for beautiful views. Ditchling Beacon is the second-highest point of the South Downs National Park and offers uninterrupted panoramic views, looking south to the sea and north to the Sussex countryside.
In third place are the Mourne Mountains. Located in County Down, the mountains are famous for sweeping down to the Irish Sea, and they contain Northern Ireland’s highest peak. Doan Mountain, located in the Central Mournes, offers a 360° panoramic view of the high peaks. For those not wanting to climb the 593-metre elevation, Murlough Beach offers breath-taking views of Slieve Donard and the rest of the Mourne Mountains.
What’s more, our neighbours the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and Snowdonia all ranked within the top 10, highlighting how lucky we are here in the North West to have such beautiful landscapes surrounding us.
Top 10 best UK destinations for a sunset hike
- South Downs, England — 9.67
- Peak District, England — 9.22
- Mourne Mountains, Northern Ireland — 9.00
- Mendip Hills, England — 8.79
- Brecon Beacons, Wales— 8.78
- Cotswolds, England — 8.58
- Snowdonia, Wales — 8.57
- Lake District, England — 8.56
- Yorkshire Dales, England — 8.33
- Dartmoor, England — 7.89