Walking has reached the dizzying heights of cool. Yes, that’s plain, old-fashioned walking, which almost anyone can do – and do for free. A recent survey revealed a spike in young people hitting coastal paths, city streets and tackling fearsome scrambles, with 49 per cent of 18-24-year-olds and 39 per cent of 20-35-year-olds walking for leisure more frequently in 2018 than ever before, and 54 per cent doing so at least once a week. While fitness was (unsurprisingly) the top motivation, 46 per cent turned to walking as a tool for improving mental health, while 27 per cent saw it as an opportunity to socialise. So with lighter days and warmer weather on the way, it’s time to head into the great outdoors with our guide to some of Britain’s best hiking hotspots.