Grading System

The grade reflects the overall difficulty of the walk and takes into account the overall length of the route and how far you walk each day. It also includes how much ascent and descent there is, what kind of terrain the route crosses, and how good the going is underfoot. We also consider how well the route is signposted and whether the route presents any navigational challenges.

Easy These are our easiest walks, covering flat and undulating terrain, and usually not more than 12 miles a day. Paths and tracks are generally well defined and well maintained. Navigation is usually straightforward.
Easy – Moderate These holidays have an average of 15 miles a day or less on mostly rolling countryside and well defined paths, with some sections in more hilly terrain. There may be some bigger climbs, up to 250m, but not every day. For our self guided holidays we recommend you can navigate from a map.
Moderate With a maximum of 20 miles a day these holidays typically cross more remote mountain and moorland terrain for more than one day, with total climbing of up to 1000m. Whilst most of the route follows well defined paths, there may be sections where the path is indistinct, so you need to be able to navigate with a map and compass for these walks.
Moderate – Challenging With a maximum of 24 miles, much of the route will be over remote mountains and moorland, and there will be sections of rough or boggy ground and indistinct paths. Competence with a map and compass is essential.
Challenging Similar to four boots, but many days will involve total climbing of up to 1200m, with significant time spent in mountainous and moorland terrain. There will be some long days out, so you need stamina! You will need to be an experienced and fit walker, confident in the mountains and on the moors in poor weather. Again, competence with a map and compass is essential.

 

Client Feedback

We booked back-to-back walking holidays with Mickledore. They quickly arranged 2 separate 10-day holidays, Cotswold Way and South Downs Way, with rest and transition days. Because of their service, our 30 days in the UK were an absolute delight. This was our second booking with Mickledore, and we plan to book with them again.

South Downs Way, June 2024
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This is my second trip with Mickledore Walking Holidays and I have found them terrific to deal with. There were no issues at all on this trip so I had no reason to make contact during my walk but I know they would have been right on it had there been. In planning the trip they were quick to respond and answer any questions. I am a big fan!

St Cuthbert’s Way, June 2024
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My husband and I (ages 74 and 78) walk Hadrian’s Wall Path coast to coast in 10 days. Wonderful B&Bs. Mickledore planned everything and we walked the wall on our own, no guide needed. Your organization is remarkable.

Hadrian’s Wall, September 2024
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