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 are essential.
Challenging Similar to four boots, but many days will involve total climbing of up to 1200m, with significant time spent in mountainous 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 in poor weather. Again, map and compass competence is essential.

 

Client Feedback

Professional, responsive and a very well-organised self-guided tour. This was particularly important as I was travelling from abroad and travelling alone. Realistically, I could never have made the arrangements as seamless as Mickledore did. Excellent in every respect.

Hadrian’s Wall Walk, May 2024
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Mickledore was fantastic, and the people I communicated with were always very quick to respond and extremely helpful. I will never forget our wonderful experience.

Great Glen Way, May 2024
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Mickledore provided us with all the information we needed prior to and during our trip. You gave us a realistic view of what to expect and provided us with everything we needed for our hiking experience to go as smoothly as possible. This was our first long distance hiking trip as well as a trip of a lifetime. Thank you for making it a memorable one!

Herriot Way, September 2024
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