The Most Peaceful Places in the UK to Get Fit Away from the Judgy Gym
Ordnance Survey has a mission to inspire people to get outside all year round, whatever the weather. But let’s face it — January’s cold, wet days often send us running straight to the gym instead. While the gym might seem like a safe bet, it’s often expensive, overcrowded, and can feel like a monotonous grind. In this post we share 10 of the most peaceful places in the UK with links to explore them using OS Maps.
The great outdoors, on the other hand, offers something better: free access to stunning landscapes, a chance to move your body in refreshing ways, and the kind of mental clarity only fresh air can bring. That’s why we’re spotlighting some of the UK’s quietest and most beautiful areas to exercise, alongside routes to try in Ordnance Survey’s OS Maps app where you can also discover millions of routes to walk, run or cycle on mobile and web. Time to escape the routine, connect with nature, and enjoy a workout that’s as good for your soul as it is for your wallet!
Forest of Bowland, Lancashire
The Forest of Bowland, nestled in the heart of Lancashire, is an idyllic escape for those seeking peace and tranquility while exercising. Designated a National Landscape, this vast expanse of rolling hills, open, heather-clad moorlands, and secluded valleys has loads of walking and trail-running routes far removed from the noise and bustle of everyday life. Here, you’re more likely to encounter the call of curlews or the rustle of trees than the clatter of weights and running machines.
Unlike noisy gyms, Bowland offers a serene environment to connect with nature while staying active. There’s no waiting for machines, no monthly fees, and no judgmental glances—just fresh air, sweeping landscapes, and the freedom to move at your own pace. Whether it’s a challenging hill climb or a gentle jog along quiet paths, exercising here feels restorative for both body and mind.
Gower Peninsula, Wales
Another National Peninsula, the Gower Peninsula in Wales is a haven for outdoor exercise enthusiasts seeking peace and breathtaking scenery. With its unspoiled beaches, rugged cliffs, and rolling coastal paths, the Gower offers a variety of tranquil routes for walking, trail running, or even beach workouts. You’ll be greeted by the sound of crashing waves, seabirds, and the occasional breeze—far removed from the clamor of a crowded gym.
Unlike indoor fitness centres, where noise, queues for equipment, and rigid routines dominate, the Gower Peninsula provides a sense of freedom. Exercise here is not only cost-free but also endlessly varied, with options ranging from serene sands at Rhossili Bay to challenging ascents along the Worm’s Head. It’s a place to move at your own pace, breathe fresh sea air, and reconnect with nature, leaving you refreshed in both body and mind.
Northumberland National Park
Northumberland National Park, a peaceful expanse of rugged beauty, is the perfect escape for those seeking quiet outdoor exercise. Covering dramatic landscapes like the Cheviot Hills, Hadrian’s Wall, and the vast moorlands, it offers endless trails for walking and running without the distractions of city life. This park is one of the UK’s least populated national parks, meaning you’ll often have its scenic paths entirely to yourself.
Compared to the bustle of stressful, sweaty gyms, exercising in Northumberland National Park feels like a breath of fresh air—literally. There are no membership fees, no queues for machines, and no blaring music; instead, you’ll find wide-open skies, stunning vistas, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you’re tackling a challenging hill climb or enjoying a leisurely jog by a babbling brook, this peaceful haven invigorates both body and mind.
Glen Affric, Highlands
Glen Affric in the Scottish Highlands is one of the most tranquil places in the UK, offering an ideal setting for outdoor exercise. Known for its ancient Caledonian pine forests, crystal-clear lochs, and rugged mountain scenery, it provides a serene environment for walking, running, and hiking. The vast, remote landscape ensures that you’ll have space to move freely, with no crowds, no noise, and no distractions—just the soothing sounds of nature.
Instead of membership fees, waiting for machines, and an artificial atmosphere, you can enjoy a workout surrounded by breathtaking wilderness, with fresh mountain air and peaceful solitude. Whether you’re navigating forest paths, running along the shores of Loch Affric, or exploring its hidden glens, expect an exercise experience that nourishes your body, mind and soul.
The Lincolnshire Wolds
The Lincolnshire Wolds, a National Landscape, offers a peaceful retreat for those seeking quiet outdoor exercise. With its gently rolling hills, tranquil valleys, and picturesque villages, it’s an ideal setting for walking, running, and cycling. The area’s low population density means you can explore its scenic trails without the noise and crowds typically found in busy gyms.
In contrast to the gym’s artificial environment, with its overcrowded equipment and repetitive routines, the Lincolnshire Wolds provides wide-open spaces, fresh country air, and a natural landscape that inspires relaxation and focus. Whether you’re traversing quiet farm tracks or jogging along peaceful bridleways, the Wolds offers variety and solitude—allowing you to connect with nature while staying active. It’s a stress-free way to exercise, far from the pressure of a gym environment.
The Shropshire Hills
The Shropshire Hills, is yet another National Landscape, providing a peaceful and scenic backdrop for outdoor exercise. With its rolling hills, quiet valleys, and expansive views, the area offers numerous trails for walking, trail running, and cycling. The peaceful environment means you can exercise in solitude, surrounded by nature, far away from the noise and crowds of busy gyms.
Unlike the gym, where you might feel rushed, crowded, or caught in a repetitive routine, the Shropshire Hills offers freedom and variety. Whether you’re tackling the heights of the Stiperstones or meandering through the tranquil woods of Carding Mill Valley, there’s always a new path to explore. The fresh air, natural beauty, and absence of distractions allow you to exercise at your own pace, helping you to feel both physically rejuvenated and mentally restored. It’s a perfect alternative to the judgy gym.
The North York Moors
The North York Moors offer a tranquil environment for outdoor exercise, with its vast open spaces, heather-clad moorlands, and ancient woodlands. Trails wind through picturesque valleys like Rosedale, follow rivers such as the Esk, and traverse iconic landmarks like Roseberry Topping and the Cleveland Way.
Unlike monotonous gyms with their rigid routines, the Moors’ expansive landscapes invite exploration at your own pace, whether you’re walking, running, or cycling. Exercising in the North York Moors strengthens your body while nurturing your mind, offering a peace and connection unmatched by any gym.
The Northumberland Coast Path
The Northumberland Coast Path offers a peaceful and scenic escape for outdoor exercise, perfect for those looking to avoid stuffy, pricey gyms. Stretching over 60 miles of gorgeous coastline, this trail takes you through secluded beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming fishing villages, providing a serene environment for walking and running. The gentle sound of the waves and the calls of seabirds replace the clatter of gym equipment, allowing you to exercise while immersed in nature.
Unlike the same-old, sam old gym with its same-old, same- repetitiveness of a gym routine, the Northumberland Coast Path offers variety with each step. From the rugged coastline near Bamburgh Castle to the expansive sands of Embleton Bay, there’s always a new landscape to discover. With few crowds and endless open space, it’s easy to enjoy a workout at your own pace, surrounded by fresh sea air. This peaceful, natural setting offers a refreshing alternative to the artificial and often congested environment of the gym.
The North Wessex Downs
The North Wessex Downs offers a peaceful, rural escape for outdoor exercise, making it a perfect alternative to boring, pricey gyms. This area, with its rolling chalk hills, scenic woodlands, and picturesque villages, provides a serene setting for walking, running, and cycling. Forget clanking weights and cramped space, the North Wessex Downs offers wide-open vistas and quiet trails where you can exercise at your own pace, immersed in nature.
With paths that wind through undulating hills, along ancient byways, and past prehistoric sites including Avebury and Silbury Hill, you can enjoy the fresh air and calming sounds of the countryside. The area’s low foot traffic mean you’ll often have the paths to yourself, creating a heavenly sense of solitude. Whether you’re tackling the steep climbs of the downs or strolling through peaceful meadows, exercising here is a restorative, nourishing experience.
The South West Coast Path, Cornwall (St Ives and Botallack)
The section of the South West Coast Path between St Ives and Botallack offers a scenic alternative to the full-length gym mirror. This stunning stretch of coastline in Cornwall features dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and sweeping sea views – all the inspiration you need to tone-up and enjoy all the mental and physical benefits that exercising outdoors brings your way. The path is also quieter than many of the tourist-heavy areas along this stretch of coast, so you can exercise in solitude, accompanied only by the sound of gulls and crashing waves.
Unlike the confined, repetitive environment of a gym, this coastal route offers variety and adventure with every step. From the rugged cliffs near Zennor to the sandy beaches of St Ives, you can enjoy a dynamic workout surrounded by nature. The fresh sea air, wide-open spaces, and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect setting to recharge both physically and mentally.
As January rolls on, don’t let the weather keep you indoors—embrace the fresh air and freedom of the great outdoors. With Ordnance Survey’s OS Maps app you’ll find countless routes to explore, helping you stay active while reconnecting with nature. Step off the treadmill, breathe in the crisp air, and discover how outdoor exercise can refresh your mind, body, and soul. Whether it’s a peaceful walk, an invigorating run, or a scenic cycle, the beauty of the UK’s landscapes awaits. So, grab your gear, explore OS Maps, and start your journey to a healthier, happier you today! And if you need any more advice on outdoors exercise try these posts on Get Outside:
