Group of hikers smiling and waving on a coastal trail with ocean and cliffs in the background.
Group of hikers posing near the Durdle Door rock formation on a cloudy day with ocean in the background.
Group of seven hikers, wearing outdoor gear, standing on a trail on a hillside with a scenic view of rolling hills and a partly cloudy sky in the background.
Group of people standing in front of prehistoric stone circle in a grassy landscape with mountains and cloudy sky.
A group of four hikers walking along a trail on a green hillside with mountains in the background on a partly cloudy day.
Group of smiling people with backpacks posing outdoors on a sunny day, with a house and trees in the background.
Group of hikers standing on a small stone bridge over a creek, with an old house and leafless trees in the background on a cloudy day.
Six older adults wearing life jackets and swimming gear enjoying a swim in a lake with mountainous landscape under a clear blue sky.

Walking Weekends & Short Breaks Across the UK

Spend a few days walking with Large Outdoors as part of a friendly, sociable group. Our walking weekends and short breaks are fully guided and easy to join, whether you’re coming on your own or with a friend. Many people start with one weekend and come back for more, often recognising faces and building connections along the way.

Since 2008, we’ve been bringing people together for small-group walking breaks across the UK’s National Parks and National Landscapes — including the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, Pembrokeshire Coast, and the Scottish Highlands. Trips are shaped around steady walking, shared time as a group, and making the most of a few days away without overpacking the itinerary.

There’s no membership and no pressure — just browse, book, and Join Large Outdoors when it suits you.

What to Expect

Fully Guided Walks - Qualified, friendly leaders plan and guide each walk, keeping the group moving comfortably together.

Everything Organised - Accommodation, meals, routes, and daily plans are arranged in advance, so you can relax into the weekend.

A Welcoming Group Atmosphere - Most people come on their own and quickly feel part of the group. It’s common to meet people who’ve walked with us before.

A Range of Walking Levels - From relaxed countryside routes to more active days, with clear guidance on what to expect before you book.

Car-Free Options Available - Many weekends include station pick-up and local transport, making it easy to arrive without a car.

A Proper Break Outdoors - Time to walk, chat, unwind, and enjoy being outdoors in good company.

New to Large Outdoors? Start here to find out how our walking and wild swimming trips work and what it’s really like to join.
https://www.largeoutdoors.com/new-to-large-outdoors-start-here

Ready to Escape for the Weekend?

Discover your next sociable walking weekend or short break with Large Outdoors. Fully guided, friendly, and easy to join.

Weekend & Short Break Styles

  • A group of walkers stand above Sutton Bank with the Vale of York Behind.

    Sociable Walking Weekends

    Relaxed two or three-night stays in scenic locations such as the Peak District, Lake District, or Northumberland. Enjoy a mix of guided walks, comfortable accommodation, and friendly evening socials.

  • A group of walkers stand on a cliff top with the sea arch durdle dor in the background.

    Midweek Breaks

    Shorter getaways that fit neatly into the week — ideal if you prefer quieter trails and smaller groups, often in beautiful spots like the Cotswolds, Norfolk Broads, or Forest of Dean.

  • I lady holding a map in the Peak District on a navigation course

    Special Interest Weekends

    Unique themes that combine walking with activities like stargazing, wild swimming, or exploring local culture. Perfect for those who enjoy variety alongside their walks.

  • Four people wild swimming in a natural water pool near a small waterfall with rocky surroundings, greeting and smiling at the camera.

    Who These Trips Are For

    Adults aged 18+ who enjoy walking and want a short, well-organised break with friendly company. Most guests are solo travellers, professionals, or couples looking for a sociable way to spend a weekend outdoors without the stress of planning.

    If you enjoy discovering new places, chatting on the trail, and unwinding after a day’s walking, you’ll feel right at home.

  • Group of people hiking on a coastal trail with cliffs and the ocean in the background under a blue sky with clouds.

    How It Works

    Browse Trips: Use the Trip Calendar to find your ideal weekend or midweek break.

    Book Online: Secure your place with a small deposit.

    Receive Your Info: We’ll send the itinerary, kit list, and joining details.

    Turn Up and Relax: Your guide and group are ready to explore with you.

  • Group of eight hikers standing on grassy hill overlooking a beach in the Outer Hebrides

    FAQ

    Do I need to be an experienced walker?
    No – each trip lists its walking level, from leisurely to active.

    Can I come alone?
    Yes – most guests do, and our small-group format makes it easy to meet others.

    What’s included?
    Each trip page lists full details, but most include guiding, accommodation, and some meals.

    Do you run car-free weekends?
    Yes, many include station pick-up and local transport.

    What’s the group size?
    Typically around 8–16 people, depending on the trip.

A group of walkers on the clifftops on the Jurassic Coast with Durdle dor in the background

Why Choose Large Outdoors for Your Walking Breaks?

Looking for a sociable way to enjoy the outdoors? Our events are perfect for anyone wanting to take a break from the everyday with a short walking holiday or weekend escape. Whether you're after peaceful walking breaks along the coast or more active short break holidays in the mountains, we offer experiences across the UK’s National Parks and National Landscapes.

Joining Large Outdoors means:

  • Guided walks with experienced and friendly leaders

  • A welcoming atmosphere ideal for solo walkers

  • A variety of trips from one-day events to full weekend and multi-day walking holidays

  • Access to unique locations and hand-picked routes

  • Social time built into every trip, from evening meals to shared discoveries out on the trail

Our walking breaks are designed to be flexible, achievable, and focused on exploring the outdoors at a steady pace. We take care of the planning so you can just turn up and enjoy the experience.