Spring in your steps: four great UK walks that banish winter

A Dorset cider orchard, a Highland glen, a rural idyll in Powys and rugged Atlantic views in County Derry make for superb walking as the evenings lighten and the air softens

If you drive along the A3066 towards Bridport in springtime, you might get a tantalising glimpse of pink apple blossom in the centre of Melplash village. If you park in the layby opposite the Half Moon pub, you will find there is a footpath that leads through the trees and on, up and over Hincknowle Hill.