AHEAD of the summer holidays a survey of 2,000 people around the country has found out the nation’s most popular walks to help inspire the plans of holidaymakers.

It is thought that lots of people will be holidaying within the UK, rather than travelling overseas.

In a new study and public vote, Sycamore Gap in Northumberland has been chosen as the ninth best in the UK.

Nick Markson of the Hexham Ramblers, who organise weekly walks in the area, said: 

"We are very lucky to live in an area where we have Hadrian’s Wall and the Northumberland National Park on our doorstep.

"This unique landscape is such an important part of our Northumbrian heritage, and walkers come from miles around to savour the wonderful views and walking that it offers."

Taking in a range of scenic locations the Great British public have determined this hillside walk to be amongst the best, thanks to the fantastic views you can get of Northumberland National Park and Hadrian's Wall on the way.

Sycamore Gap was up against strong competition from routes in places like the Peak District, Yorkshire and the Cotswolds, and missed out to places like London’s popular Thames Path and Cornwall’s Lizard Point.

Hexham Ramblers organise walks every Sunday throughout the Tyne Valley and beyond.  If you want to take part, you can find full details here.

Respondents were fiercely loyal to the walks in their part of the country, rightly proud of the beauty on their doorstep. 31% of respondents from Scotland chose the Stac Pollaidh walk as their favourite, and the North-West wasn’t far behind with a large majority choosing Loughrigg Fell.  This might have hurt Sycamore Gap's chances, with relative proximity to places like the Lake District.

The rest of the top 10 was as follows:

1. Thames Path, including the London Wetland Centre, London

2. Porthleven to Lizard Point, Cornwall Coast

3. Loughrigg Fell, Lake District

4. Gordale Scar and Malham Cove, North Yorkshire

5. Padley Gorge, Peak District

6. Stac Pollaidh, Scottish Highlands

7. Winchcombe to Cleeve Hill, Cotswolds

8. Bickerton Hills and Sandstone, Cheshire

9. Sycamore Gap, Northumberland

10. Llyn Dinas, North Wales

Jason Paver, Joint-MD of Pavers Shoes, who conducted the survey, offered his thoughts: “We hope this list of the UK’s favourite walks will both inspire people to explore and also support the UK tourism industry. Having done a number of these walks myself I can vouch for how good they are.

“There’s never been a better time to staycation and appreciate the natural beauty of the UK. When you are out walking please remember to abide by the Countryside Code, know your route, pack essentials and of course wear the right footwear!”