Walk Grades Explained 

Easy Grade
Along relatively flat roads; forest tracks; cliff top and coastal paths; beaches
Duration of 2-2½ hours and distance of up to 5 miles
Suitable for all groups 

Moderate Grade 
Over open moorland, uneven ground but mostly on well trodden paths with gentle gradients.  May be necessary to use stiles in places.
Duration of 2-4 hours and distance of up to 8 miles.   
Suitable for most abilities 

Difficult Grade
Open moorland, rough terrain with loose, uneven and boggy surface.  Some steep gradients and much off the beaten track.  May need to negotiate fences, stone walls or stiles
Duration of 4-5 hours and distance of 5-10 miles
Suitable for those with some experience and a reasonable standard of fitness 

Very Difficult Grade
Rough terrain with loose, rocky, uneven and boggy surface usually in wild, mountainous country, off the beaten track and often with steep gradients
Duration of 5-8 hours with a distance of up to 12 miles
Suitable for experienced walkers who have a good standard of fitness 

Severe Grade 
Challenging and strenuous walking in wild mountainous country which could involve scrambling over steep exposed rocks
Duration of up to 10 hours covering a distance of 10-15 milesSuitable for the well experienced hill walker with a high level of fitness and stamina.