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We sat down with Jon Millen, one of our expert guides, to get the inside scoop on guided walking holidays. From group dynamics to preparation tips, Jon shares valuable insights for anyone considering this type of active travel.

Why Do People Go on Guided Walks?

“A major reason people choose guided walks is the group experience,” Jon explains. “Walkers enjoy meeting new people and sharing the journey together. Some participants, although fit, might lack confidence in navigating or walking alone, so they appreciate the added security of a guided group.”

What are the Main Differences Between Guided and Self-Guided Walking?

According to Jon, the key distinction lies in the level of support and expertise provided:

Guided Walking Tours: An experienced guide accompanies you every day. They handle route-finding, ensure group safety, and adapt plans to suit weather conditions. Guides often share insights about the area's human and natural history, manage accommodations, arrange meals, and troubleshoot issues.
Self-Guided Walking Tours: You’re in charge of your own experience. While this gives you the freedom to walk at your own pace and create a personal schedule, you’re responsible for navigation, safety, and coordinating logistics.

Who Typically Joins Guided Walks?

Guided groups often include likeminded walkers from their 40s to early 70s, but ages can vary widely. Groups are usually made up of 6-12 participants from across the globe, providing an intimate and manageable dynamic.

Do Travellers Need to Bring Their Own Food?

“Not usually,” Jon says. “Unless you have specific dietary needs that can’t be accommodated, food is readily available on our guided walking holidays in the UK and Europe. Most travellers buy snacks and packed lunches from accommodations or local shops.

Evening meals can be enjoyed with the group or individually, depending on your preference. Guides are there to help with food recommendations and can reserve tables for the group if desired.” Where there is limited availability in the evening, our team generally goes ahead and reserves a table for the group.

What Happens if There are Different Walking Speeds in the Group?

Managing varying walking speeds is one of the guide’s biggest challenges. Jon emphasises the importance of compromise within the group:

For faster walkers: “Those seeking a more athletic pace may want to consider a self-guided trip if they are conscious about this and the effect a slower pace may have on their enjoyment of the holiday."
For slower walkers: “It’s essential to assess your fitness level before joining a guided walk. Tours are graded to ensure participants can handle the distances and conditions comfortably. A safety aspect comes into play here.”

Guides often encourage faster walkers to moderate their pace and slower walkers to pick up speed. Many participants find their rhythm after a few days. In cases where a traveller cannot keep up safely, they may skip a day’s walk and use local transport to reach the next accommodation. “Most walks are in beautiful areas, so even non-walking days can be enjoyable,” Jon notes.

Grading & Safety

Our tours are graded to help ensure that all walkers in the group have the appropriate level of fitness for the holiday. This means participants should be able to comfortably complete the distances within a reasonable time, without slowing the group down.

Safety is our top priority, and in challenging weather, waiting for slower walkers can lead to others getting cold or even missing well-earned evening meals. If a guide feels that someone is struggling to keep up or is at risk for themselves or the group—for example, due to difficulties with rocky ascents, descents, or using poles—they may advise them to skip certain sections or take a break from the walk for their own safety and that of the group.

Do You Need to Be More or Less Prepared for a Guided Trip vs. Self-Guided?

Preparation is key for both types of trips, but the requirements differ:

Guided Walks: Physical preparation should match the grade of the trip. The guide handles logistics, safety, and navigation, making it easier for participants to focus on enjoying the walk.
Self-Guided Walks: These require a higher level of personal preparation. You’ll need to plan your itinerary, navigate, ensure your safety, and locate accommodations. “There’s more independence, but it also means more responsibility,” Jon explains.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Guided walking holidays in the UK & Europe offer a fantastic balance of physical activity, camaraderie, and expert support. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to the trails, these trips provide an enriching way to explore stunning landscapes without the stress of planning every detail.

For those who prefer more independence, self-guided trips remain a great option—just be sure to come prepared!