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There’s something undeniably appealing about a good walk followed by a proper pub.
That’s exactly why Perfect Pub Walks has become such a popular watch. Combining scenic countryside walks, traditional British pubs, and relaxed conversations, the series captures everything people love about walking in the UK.
Hosted by Bill Bailey and later Alexander Armstrong, the show is packed with inspiration for your next day out.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best Perfect Pub Walks routes, locations, and standout moments – and why they’re worth adding to your walking list.
Table of Contents
What Is Perfect Pub Walks?
Perfect Pub Walks is a UK TV series where the host explores scenic walking routes with a celebrity guest, stopping at historic pubs along the way.
Each episode typically includes:
- Beautiful countryside walking routes
- Visits to traditional UK pubs
- Relaxed, honest conversations
It shares a similar feel to Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing, where the activity itself allows for more natural and meaningful discussion.
Best Walks from Bill Bailey’s Perfect Pub Walks
The original series hosted by comedian Bill Bailey has a slightly more quirky and reflective tone, as is his nature, with a strong focus on nature, history, and personal stories.
Peak District Walk (with Alan Davies)
One of the standout Perfect Pub Walks routes, this episode features iconic locations including Mam Tor and the Monsal Trail.
- Location: Peak District
- Walk type: Hill and valley walking
- Highlights: Panoramic views, classic Derbyshire scenery
Beyond the landscape, the conversation explores friendship, ageing, and loss, adding real emotional depth to the walk.
Jurassic Coast Walk, Dorset (with Paul Merton)
This is one of the most visually striking routes in the series.
- Location: Dorset (Jurassic Coast)
- Walk type: Coastal walking
- Highlights: Cliffs, sea views, fossil-rich coastline
The discussion turns reflective, focusing on creativity, legacy, and life beyond comedy.
Dedham Vale Walk (Essex & Suffolk) (with Trevor McDonald)
A gentler and more accessible countryside walk.
- Location: Dedham Vale
- Walk type: Flat rural walking
- Highlights: Rivers, meadows, Constable Country
This episode feels like a journey through both landscape and life, with Trevor McDonald sharing stories from his remarkable career.
Somerset Countryside Walk (with Shaun Ryder)
A more relaxed and unpredictable episode set in the Somerset countryside.
- Location: Somerset Levels
- Walk type: Easy countryside walking
- Highlights: Open landscapes, wildlife, peaceful routes
Shaun Ryder brings humour and honesty, making this one of the most entertaining walks in the series.
Best Walks from Alexander Armstrong’s Perfect Pub Walks
When Pointless host Alexander Armstrong takes over, the show becomes slightly more polished, but keeps the same winning formula.
Yorkshire Walk (with James May)
A classic Yorkshire route with wide-open views and a sense of space.
- Location: Yorkshire
- Walk type: Rolling countryside
- Highlights: Big landscapes, quiet paths
The conversation is reflective, with plenty of humour along the way.
Kent Countryside Walk (with Chris Packham)
This episode explores the natural beauty of Kent, offering a mix of woodland, open countryside, and peaceful walking routes.
- Location: Kent
- Walk type: Woodland and countryside walking
- Highlights: Wildlife, quiet paths, varied landscapes
With Chris Packham leading the conversation, this walk has a thoughtful and reflective tone. There’s a strong focus on nature, conservation, and the connection between people and the environment, making it one of the more insightful episodes in the series.
Shropshire Countryside Walk (with Lenny Henry)
Shropshire provides a quieter, less crowded backdrop, perfect for a relaxed and scenic pub walk.
- Location: Shropshire
- Walk type: Rolling countryside
- Highlights: Hills, farmland, unspoilt views
Lenny Henry brings warmth, humour, and honesty to the walk. Alongside plenty of light-hearted moments, the conversation touches on his life and career, giving the episode a nice balance of humour and reflection.
Wye Valley Walk (with Chris McCausland)
One of the most dramatic landscapes featured in Perfect Pub Walks.
- Location: Wye Valley
- Walk type: Woodland and river walking
- Highlights: River views, hills, forest trails
Chris McCausland brings humour and honesty, making this a memorable and engaging walk.
Why These Perfect Pub Walks Routes Stand Out
What makes these walks special isn’t just the scenery – it’s the combination of elements:
- Scenic UK landscapes
- Historic pubs as destinations
- Relaxed, meaningful conversations
This mix creates a walking experience that’s about more than just distance – it’s about enjoyment, connection, and taking your time.
Why Pub Walks Are So Popular in the UK
Pub walks have long been a favourite across the UK, and Perfect Pub Walks highlights exactly why.
- Accessible routes for most ability levels
- A clear destination and reward
- Ideal for social walking
- Easy to plan as a day out
For many walkers, the pub is just as important as the path. It’s one of the few opportunities where people can relax, and really get to know each other. There’s something about walking side by side, in nature, achieving something, that allows people the freedom to open up like never before.
Final Thoughts: Try a Perfect Pub Walk Yourself
Perfect Pub Walks is a reminder that walking doesn’t have to be about speed or distance.
It’s about enjoying the countryside, discovering new places, and maybe finishing with a well-earned pint.
If you’re feeling inspired, the good news is that many of these routes – or similar alternatives – are easy to recreate.
In the next guide, we’ll show you how to plan your own Perfect Pub Walk, including real routes you can try across the UK.
Explore the best Perfect Pub Walks routes in the UK, with scenic walks, historic pubs and inspiration from Bill Bailey and Alexander Armstrong.
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