We're a nation of walkers and hikers here in the UK, and according to the Ramblers, England and Wales alone have over 140,000 miles of footpaths, bridleways and byways.
These make up our public rights of way network, which allows us to get outside and enjoy being in nature. But some of them are steeper, narrower and generally more treacherous than others.
While all of these routes are public footpaths, it's worth noting that you should never attempt them in poor or unfavourable weather conditions, or if you are not appropriately prepared for them. As many of these paths involve narrow or steep walkways, as well as scrambling, they are not suited to those with dogs, children, prams or with accessibility needs.
Scariest footpaths in the UK
Wasdale Screes, Lake District
You know a path is bad when it's signposted as 'Not recommended'. That's the case with Wasdale Screes, which is a known accident black spot for Wasdale Mountain Rescue (WMR). The unstable, loose boulder field (that stretches for a mile along Wast Water) means you need to be comfortable with a bit of scrambling.
The WMR notes that there is a faint path through the boulder field which is marked by small cairns and some worn rocks but it is difficult to follow. This path stays within around 50m to the shore's edge, so don't be tempted to climb up higher.
Giddy Edge, Matlock Bath, Derbyshire
If you don't have a head for heights, then the aptly named Giddy Edge is best avoided. This narrow and exposed path lies 300 feet above the town of Matlock Bath in Derbyshire. There is a one-way system along the trail, but there is an alternative path so it can be avoided altogether if you'd prefer. A handrail provides some guidance and you can also find natural holds in the limestone rock.
Crib Goch, Yr Wyddfa, Eryri
This is technically more of a scramble than a footpath – but as it can be accessed via the Pyg Track on Yr Wyddfa, it's worth a mention. The 500-metre knife-edge ridge is dangerous (we classed it as one of the deadliest in the UK) and should only be attempted by experienced mountaineers.
According to the Eyri website, "Even in ideal weather conditions, Crib Goch is a difficult undertaking. Crib Goch is a serious mountaineering undertaking in wet weather, wind, snow, mist or ice."
Elie Chainwalk, Fife
Another route that's more of a scramble than a footpath is the Elie Chainwalk in Fife. The route combines climbing and crawling along coastal cliffs, using the chains embedded in the rock. Make sure you keep an eye on the tide times as you risk getting cut off. The route takes between 1-3 hours in total, so precise timings are necessary for this one.
Carrick-a-Rede, County Antrim
A bridge was first erected here in 1755 by salmon fishermen – and although the bridge today is likely much sturdier, it's no less daunting. It's suspended almost 100 feet above the sea and leads to Carrick-a-Rede Island. Pre-booking (via the National Trust) is essential. Keep an eye on the forecast though, as it's closed in high winds.
The Broomway, Essex
Often hailed as the most dangerous footpath in the UK, the ancient Broomway path predates the Romans and is thought to have claimed the lives of 100 people over the centuries. Edwardian newspapers even dubbed it 'The Doomway'. A slipway eerily tapers out to sea from Wakering Stairs, across Maplin Sands to Foulness Island.
Historically marked by bundles of twigs or poles, this legal byway now has little markings to go by. Tides and mist are big concerns here, as well as disorientation (often causing mirages) and quicksand. Foulness Island is also owned by the Ministry of Defence and munitions are tested here, so you're only allowed to walk the route on weekends.
Scariest footpath in the world
El Caminito del Rey, Málaga
El Caminito del Rey (translated as 'The King's Little Walkway') was once thought to be the scariest footpath in the world. The 1,200m-long walkway is made up of wooden planks which are pinned into the side of a gorge in El Chorro. After closing in 2015 for major repair works, the route is open once again with a much-needed development – although it's still not recommended for those who are scared of heights.
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