New research from comfortable sandal expert FitFlop has identified the most popular spring walks across Britain, as interest rises ahead of the Easter break and early May bank holidays in 2026.
The study analysed 571 walking destinations using three measures: Average monthly Google searches during spring, Instagram hashtag volumes, and the percentage of five-star TripAdvisor reviews. Each location received a spring walk score out of 100, reflecting both online popularity and visitor satisfaction.
London locations dominate the top rankings, followed by rural and national park destinations.
Top 10 most loved spring walks
- Richmond Park, Greater London – 400,333 average spring Google searches, 514,000 Instagram tags, 74.46% five-star reviews. Score: 77.21
- Hampstead Heath, Greater London – 323,333 searches, 394,000 Instagram tags, 71.44% five-star reviews. Score: 65.79
- New Forest, Hampshire – 79,500 searches, 1,100,000 Instagram tags, 80.95% five-star reviews. Score: 69.32
- Lake District National Park, Cumbria – 46,500 searches, 660,000 Instagram tags, 88.41% five-star reviews. Score: 56.03
- Malvern Hills, Worcestershire and Herefordshire – 148,500 searches, 217,000 Instagram tags, 84.70% five-star reviews. Score: 50.23
- Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire – 74,000 searches, 382,000 Instagram tags, 82.64% five-star reviews. Score: 47.93
- Castle Combe, Wiltshire – 118,333 searches, 176,000 Instagram tags, 75.20% five-star reviews. Score: 42.83
- Mam Tor, Derbyshire – 118,333 searches, 145,000 Instagram tags, 76.89% five-star reviews. Score: 42.53
- Hever Castle, Kent – 155,000 searches, 100,000 Instagram tags, 68.61% five-star reviews. Score: 41.27
- RHS Garden Rosemoor, Devon – 27,467 searches, 500,000 Instagram tags, 75.14% five-star reviews. Score: 44.62
Seasonal appeal drives interest
April 2026 brings longer days and milder weather, encouraging outdoor activity. The research focuses on spring-specific data to capture seasonal appeal, including blooming landscapes and wildlife sightings.
Leading destinations
Richmond Park takes the top spot with a score of 77 out of 100. Visitors can expect herds of deer with newborn fawns as its 2,500 acres turn from winter browns to vibrant greens. The Isabella Plantation features azaleas, camellias, and rhododendrons in bloom. The park records 514,000 Instagram tags, more than 400,000 Google searches between March and May, and 74% five-star TripAdvisor reviews. It is free to enter and easily accessible.
Hampstead Heath ranks second with a score of 65.79. Its rolling meadows, woodland, and ponds offer a more rustic setting. Parliament Hill provides panoramic views of London. The Heath records 394,000 Instagram tags, 323,333 spring searches, and 71% five-star reviews. It is free to access and dog-friendly.
The New Forest covers more than 140,000 acres and ranks among the most immersive countryside walks. Spring brings bluebell displays and free-roaming ponies and deer. Popular routes include village walks through Brockenhurst and longer trails such as Lyndhurst Hill and Swan Green Circular. The area records 1.1 million Instagram tags, 79,500 searches, and 81% five-star reviews.
The Lake District National Park offers spring scenery with fresh greenery and daffodils. Trails around Grasmere and Derwentwater attract visitors before peak season, while Cat Bells provides elevated views. The destination records over 660,000 Instagram tags, 46,500 searches, and 88% five-star reviews. Entry is free, though parking fees may apply. The area is also dog-friendly.
The Malvern Hills achieve a score of 50.23. The landscape features grasslands and wildflowers, with ridge walks offering views across Worcestershire and Herefordshire. The site records 148,500 searches, 217,000 Instagram tags, and 85% five-star reviews. It is free to access and suitable for dog walkers.
Growing demand for outdoor spaces
The findings highlight strong demand for accessible green spaces that offer seasonal features such as wildflowers, young wildlife, and open views. Many of the locations are free to enter and cater to a range of fitness levels, supporting increased interest in outdoor activity during spring.
The FitFlop study provides guidance for those planning walking trips across Britain during the 2026 holiday period.