In honour of National Walking Day, a new study reveals the best UK cities for peaceful and stress-free walks

• Hereford tops the list as the most relaxing UK city for a walk, with its mix of riverside routes, historic streets, and abundant greenery.
• Royal Tunbridge Wells and Lincoln rank second and third, respectively, each offering serene strolls steeped in history and nature.
• Bigger cities like London and Manchester trail behind, suggesting peace is often easier to find in smaller towns and countryside-adjacent spots.
• Coastal towns and cathedral cities dominate the top 10, with seaside paths, cobbled quarters, and scenic waterways providing the calmest walks.

In celebration of National Walking Day (2nd April), a new study has uncovered the best cities across the UK to enjoy a calming stroll, and the results might surprise you. 

It turns out you don’t need to trek to the Highlands or a hidden countryside village to find peace and quiet, as some of the country’s most tranquil walking routes can be found right in the heart of cities.

The research, carried out by the team at SlotsCalendar, analysed more than 200,000 TripAdvisor reviews of parks and green spaces in 73 UK cities and towns. Each location was scored on how often words like “relaxing”, “peaceful”, “calm”, and “tranquil” appeared in reviews.

Taking the crown is Hereford, a charming cathedral city nestled near the Welsh border. With riverside paths along the Wye, historic timber-framed buildings, and easy access to the countryside, it’s little wonder Hereford came out on top. The high score suggests locals and visitors alike feel truly at ease walking its leafy parks and winding medieval streets.

In second place is Royal Tunbridge Wells, where Georgian architecture meets glorious greenery. The town has long been known as a wellness retreat (it’s even in the name), and the nearby High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty certainly helps its case. Whether it’s The Pantiles or a countryside hike, relaxation is part of the DNA here.

Lincoln lands third with its cobbled Cathedral Quarter and peaceful strolls along the Brayford Waterfront. The city masterfully combines ancient architecture with scenic riverside charm, making it perfect for a quiet Sunday walk or for escaping the buzz of modern life with a view of Lincoln Cathedral watching over you.

York is often bustling with tourists, but there’s plenty of serenity to be found. From its riverside paths along the Ouse to the historic city walls and peaceful Museum Gardens, this medieval gem offers walkers a blend of history and hush. You might come for the Minster, but you’ll stay for the greenery.

It’s not all student hustle in Oxford. The city’s parks and meadows, including University Parks, Christ Church Meadow, and the Botanic Gardens, offer plenty of calm, putting the city in fifth place. The Thames Path running through the city provides a long, peaceful stretch for thoughtful strolling with a side of punting.

Often overshadowed by neighbouring Cotswold towns, Gloucester deserves a moment in the spotlight, as the city ranks sixth. Restored docks, historic buildings, and nearby hills like Robinswood Country Park offer a mix of heritage and greenery that’s perfect for a slow-paced wander.

Carlisle, sitting close to the Scottish border, ranks seventh and scores well thanks to its riverside trails along the Eden and access to the Hadrian’s Wall Path. It blends Roman history, castle views, and northern charm, making it a great base for anyone craving a quiet city break without the crowds.

Not a city in the traditional sense, Esher in Surrey still punches well above its weight, ranking eighth. It lacks a central hustle but makes up for it with serene woodland walks, proximity to Esher Commons, and even a bit of royal parkland at Bushy Park. This one’s for the leafy suburbs fans.

An unexpected entry in the top 10, Warrington shows how even more industrial towns can offer tranquillity. Scenic canal paths and nature reserves give this northern spot a relaxing edge, even if it’s better known for logistics than leisure.

Rounding out the top ten is Southport, where Victorian promenades, beach paths, and sand dunes meet to create one of the most peaceful coastal walking spots in the UK. Ideal for a wind-swept wander or a summer evening stroll.

Bath (11th) and Cardiff (12th) just missed the top ten, showing that elegant architecture and riverside views are a recurring theme.

Some of the UK’s busiest cities like London (27th), Manchester (24th), and Birmingham (49th) didn’t fare as well. That’s perhaps no surprise, as crowds and traffic often clash with calm.

Edinburgh (20th) just sneaks into the top 20 despite being surrounded by natural beauty, suggesting tourist density might impact the perceived peacefulness.

On the flip side, Kingston upon Hull, Reading, Hartlepool, Barnsley, and Halifax ranked at the bottom of the list.

Full list of best cities in the UK for relaxing walks: