A trip with friends doesn't need a packed itinerary. Choosing one main activity that everyone can look forward to leaves more time to enjoy the destination together. Across the UK and Ireland, there are coastal walks, historic landmarks and scenic routes that provide plenty of opportunities for shared adventures.
These five destinations each have a standout experience worth planning a getaway around. There's also time to explore nearby towns, discover local attractions and enjoy the surrounding scenery without rushing from one activity to the next.
Wandering Limestone Villages and Hill Trails in the Cotswolds, England
The Cotswolds are known for their rolling hills, dry-stone walls and villages built from honey-colored limestone. One of the best ways to explore the countryside with friends is to walk a section of the Cotswold Way, a long-distance trail following the western edge of the hills. The six-mile stretch from Chipping Campden to Broadway passes Dover's Hill and Broadway Tower, with wide views across the Vale of Evesham.
Stop at viewpoints along the way, wander through woodland and enjoy the surrounding countryside before reaching Broadway. The village has a broad high street lined with historic stone buildings, independent shops and cafés where your group can relax after the walk. On another day, visit Bourton-on-the-Water to explore its riverside paths and picturesque stone bridges crossing the River Windrush.
One advantage for friends sharing luxury lodges in the Cotswolds is the flexibility to plan walks and village visits around their own schedule. For a change of scenery, Bredon Hill offers another option for a group outing, with trails and views across the surrounding countryside. Since the Chipping Campden to Broadway walk follows a one-way route, plan your return transport before setting out.
Climbing Arthur's Seat for 360-Degree Views in Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh has an unusual landscape, with rocky hills rising just beyond its historic streets. In Holyrood Park, Arthur's Seat stands 251 meters above sea level, offering a rewarding hike for friends who enjoy spending time outdoors. This ancient volcanic peak is surrounded by grassy slopes and rugged rock formations, with the distinctive Salisbury Crags nearby.
Several walking routes lead to the summit, with panoramic views of Edinburgh's Old Town, Edinburgh Castle and, on clear days, the Firth of Forth. Along the way, there are places to stop, take photos and admire the changing views across the city. Some routes also pass near the ruins of St. Anthony's Chapel, overlooking St. Margaret's Loch.
Holyrood Park is a short walk from the Royal Mile, where narrow closes, independent shops and cafés provide plenty to explore after the hike. Some routes to the summit involve steep and rocky paths, so allow enough time for everyone in the group and check for any trail restrictions before setting out.
Walking the Cliffs of Moher Above the West Clare Coast, Ireland
Rising more than 700 feet above the Atlantic, the Cliffs of Moher stretch for around five miles along County Clare's western coastline. Their steep rock faces and grassy clifftops create an impressive setting for a walk with friends. On clear days, views extend across the ocean towards the Aran Islands, while seabirds can often be spotted along the cliffs.
The designated paths around the visitor center lead to several viewpoints, including O'Brien's Tower, where the cliffs and surrounding coastline can be admired from above. During late spring and early summer, there may also be opportunities to spot puffins nesting on Goat Island. Walking together allows time to stop for photographs and enjoy the scenery without rushing through the visit.
Doolin is known for its traditional Irish music sessions, while the Burren offers a contrasting landscape of exposed limestone and unusual plant life. Both are worth exploring for friends joining a small group tour of Ireland, particularly those spending several days in County Clare. Some sections of the longer coastal walking route remain closed, so check the latest access information before planning a walk.
Riding the Mountain Railway to Snowdon's Summit in Eryri, Wales
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), the highest mountain in Wales, rises above the lakes and steep valleys of Eryri National Park. Friends can enjoy this rugged landscape together aboard the Snowdon Mountain Railway, which has carried passengers up the mountain from Llanberis since 1896. The historic rack-and-pinion train climbs past rocky slopes and grassy ridges, with the village and valley gradually falling away below.
The journey offers changing views of the surrounding peaks as the train gains height. When services reach the summit and the skies are clear, passengers can look out across the mountains and towards the coast. A short stop at the top gives the group time to take photographs and admire the scenery before the return journey.
Back in Llanberis, groups can walk beside Llyn Padarn or explore the ruins of Dolbadarn Castle, which overlooks the lake. The nearby slate quarry landscapes also reveal an important part of the region's industrial history. Railway services are seasonal and weather-dependent, with some journeys ending at Clogwyn rather than the summit, so confirm the destination when planning the day.
Walking Basalt Columns on the Causeway Coast, Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland's Causeway Coast is home to the Giant's Causeway, where around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns stretch towards the Atlantic. Formed by ancient volcanic activity, these mostly hexagonal stones create an unusual landscape for friends to explore together. Beyond the columns, grassy cliffs rise above the rocky shoreline, with views across the North Atlantic.
From the visitor center, the Blue Trail leads down to the famous stone formations, passing interesting rock features along the way. Friends can walk among the uneven columns, look for the Giant's Boot rock formation and take photographs of the surrounding coastline. For a different perspective, the clifftop trails offer elevated views of the basalt formations and neighboring headlands.
A trip along the Causeway Coast can also include Dunluce Castle, perched on a rocky headland, and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, which connects the mainland to a small island. Both are separate stops along the coastal driving route. The rope bridge requires advance booking and may close during strong winds, so it's best to confirm access before visiting. Portrush is another useful stop, with a harbor, sandy beaches and restaurants for a meal after exploring the coast.
Which getaway would your friends pick first?
Planning a trip with friends gets easier once everyone agrees on the main activity. It could be hiking Arthur's Seat, taking the mountain railway through Eryri, or spending a day exploring the Giant's Causeway.
Once that's decided, there's no need to fill every hour. Leave time for a long lunch, an unexpected stop along the way, or simply enjoying each other's company. Sometimes, the best parts of a trip are the ones nobody planned.
