The highest mountains in the UK

Soaring 4,413 feet above sea level and located close to Fort William in southwestern Scotland, the mighty Ben Nevis holds the title of being the tallest mountain in Scotland, as well as the highest mountain in the UK. Part of the Grampian Mountain Range, which is one of three major ranges in Scotland, the legendary peak Ben Nevis annually attracts tens of thousands of people who come for mountain walking, hiking, rock climbing, and mountaineering.

Consisting of a relatively flat trail that winds its way to the summit, the 9.8-mile out-and-back Mountain Path is the easiest route to the top of Ben Nevis. Traversing mostly even terrain but with some scrambling toward the top, most hikers should have no issues reaching the summit.

If you don't want to take on Ben Nevis itself, there's plenty more great hiking in the Scottish Highlands. Highlights include the Old Man of Storr hike or the Quiraing Circuit on the nearby Isle of Skye, easier peaks like Cùl Mòr in the North West Highlands UNESCO Geopark, and numerous trails in national parks such as Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, and Cairngorms National Park.

The third-highest mountain in the UK and the highest mountain in England, the 3,209-foot-high Scafell Pike stands in northern England's county of Cumbria. Although the surrounding Lake District and Lake District National Park are renowned for their mountainous terrain and rolling hills, Scafell Pike is the most prominent mountain, rising above them all making a striking profile against the skyline.

At 5.8 miles long, the path from Wasdale Head is the shortest and most beginner-friendly route to the summit. However, if you're happy to undertake some light scrambling, you can tackle the Seathwaite Route which is also accessible to beginners, as part of our Walk The Lake District Tour.

Walking and hiking are among the most popular activities for both visitors and locals in the Lake District and Scafell Pike is just one of the region’s many memorable mountain hikes. The 1,480-foot-high Catbells fell is another great option, with the route winding its way along an elevated ridgeline high above mountains and lakes in the valleys below. For a hike to explore areas of the valley floors, the circular walk around Tarn Hows Lake is a lovely way to spend an afternoon.