Winter walks to revive you in January

    Need to shake off the festive fug and walk off the excesses of Christmas? Wrap up warm and get a dose of fresh air and enjoy the wintry scenery on one of these winter walks at some of the National Trust’s loveliest properties.

    Fountains Abbey

    Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, Fountains, Ripon HG4 3DY

    winter walks
    Visitors at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, North Yorkshire. Credit: ©National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

    On a cold day in 1132, 13 monks walked from Ripon to a completely deserted valley by the River Skell. There they started their own community from nothing.  And so, Fountains Abbey was born. The four-mile pilgrimage follows in their footsteps, starting at Ripon Cathedral with a celebration of Eucharist and ending in the Abbey. The former Cistercian abbey was later joined by medieval deer park and an elegant Georgian water garden, and is a delightful place to see on foot.

    winter walks
    Visitors walking in the parkland in winter at Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden, North Yorkshire. Credit: National Trust Images/Chris Lacey

    9.30am-1pm. Free with admission. Booking not essential. Call 01765 608888.

    Ashridge Estate

    Ashridge Estate, Little Gaddesden, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire HP4 1NP

    winter walks
    Winter walking at Ashridge Estate, Hertfordshire. Credit: National Trust images/James Dobson
    Enjoy a scenicwalk through the estate which has ancient trees, rolling chalk downlands and lush meadows which looks magical time of year. Even better, enjoy hot drinks and delicious cakes at the café afterwards to warm you up.

    9am – 4pm. Free to enter the estate.

    Sheffield Park and Garden

    Sheffield Park and Garden, Uckfield, East Sussex TN22 3QX

    Start the year as you mean to go on with a refreshing winter walk around the lesser-known parts of the estate. Relax, and take in the stunning scenery at this time of year and before enjoying some hot refreshments at the Coach House Café.

    winter walks
    Sunrise over Pillbox pond at Sheffield Park, East Sussex

    10am-4pm. Booking not essential. Adults, £14, children £7.70.

    Visit the National Trust for more details and other events and walks.

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