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National Geographic
3 days ago
- National Geographic
A practical guide to long-distance walking in the UK
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). Long-distance rambling in Britain is part of a correspondingly long tradition. In fact, few nationalities enjoy it quite as much as the British: from the South West Coast Path at Land's End in Cornwall, to the Cape Wrath Trail in the Scottish Highlands, you'll always find a Brit in an anorak. In 1965, the Pennine Way became the first of the UK's National Trails, and now — 60 years later — there are 16 to choose from. So, before you lace up your boots and set off, here is some practical advice to help you make the most of the wonderful scenery. What's the right path for me? The good news is that Britain has long-distance paths to suit all abilities. Some of the flattest are the South Downs Way (100 miles) and the Norfolk Coast Path (84 miles) — doable for anyone of reasonable fitness. The Thames Path (185 miles) is also very easy, and has a number of mainline stations along the route, making it very possible to dip in and out of the trail. Be aware that some paths that don't reach giddy elevations can still be unexpectedly challenging — the Cotswold Way (102 miles) and the South West Coast Path (630 miles) have a great many undulations. Undoubtedly the hardest trail is the unofficial Cape Wrath Trail (230 miles), a Highland expedition involving wild camps and river crossings in the remote north of Scotland. How should I plan my trek? You will find certain paths are better set up for tourism than others: the 16 National Trails generally all have good infrastructure and are easily navigated. Be sure to book accommodation many months ahead if you're tackling popular paths like the Pennine Way or West Highland Way in the high season. On other long-distance trails that don't have the same accreditation you may need to make complicated public transport connections to reach trailheads, hunt down accommodation and navigate more extensively as, unlike National Trails or Scotland's Great Trails, not all are signposted. Of course, you don't need to walk the entire length of any long-distance walk, tackling it in chunks instead. Above all, your daily mileage will likely be determined by the accommodation and transport options en route as well as your fitness. What gear do I need? Strong walking boots and a rainproof shell are essentials year-round. It's always worth packing drinking water, emergency snacks, a torch, batteries, warm layers and a whistle to attract attention. Hiking poles can also be useful to spare your knees, particularly on descents. Even on busy trails, come prepared with a map (such as Ordnance Survey), waterproof map case, compass and the ability to use them — and always check the weather in advance. The MWIS forecast has the best reports for the UK's mountains. Always notify a friend or family member where you are headed in advance, and be sure to arrange a check-in time for your return. Do I need to carry all my own kit? On many of the more popular trails (including Hadrian's Wall, Anglesey Coastal Path and the West Highland Way) you can find operators who will shuttle your bags between hotels, B&Bs and bunkhouses; often this service is organised as part of a broader package including transport and accommodation. Are there good options for people with mobility issues? Some long-distance paths are suited to wheelchair users, in particular those that once served as railway lines. The Tarka Trail network (180 miles) is one example, travelling the North Devon coast. Derbyshire also has a number of accessible trails, such as the Tissington Trail and Monsal Trail, the latter of which swoops across the Victorian Headstone Viaduct. When is the best time to go? Long-distance walking can be done year-round in Britain, with most routes at their busiest from April to September. Be aware that winter walking in upland areas of North Wales, the Lake District and above all the Scottish Highlands may require specialist equipment such as ice axes and crampons, and the ability to use them. Swarms of midges can sometimes make Scottish walks a misery from around July to August. Find midge forecasts at Getting there and around All 16 National Trails can be accessed by rail travel at at least one point along the route. If you're hiking a point-to-point path (as opposed to a circular one), travel by public transport is preferable as you won't need to return to the start to collect your vehicle. More info To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
Daily Record
04-06-2025
- General
- Daily Record
Britain's oldest road spans 87 miles of history with stunning landscapes
The Ridgeway National Trail is an ancient path that has been walked by everyone from drovers to traders, and even invaders, and today it's a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts The Ridgeway National Trail, known as Britain's most ancient road, is steeped in history with over 5,000 years' worth of travellers having traversed its length. Commencing at the World Heritage Site of Avebury in Wiltshire, the trail stretches for an impressive 87 miles until reaching the stunning outlook of Ivinghoe Beacon amidst the Chiltern Hills. A walk along this historic way doesn't only transport you back in time but also entices with a tapestry of significant landmarks ranging from Neolithic barrows to the enchanting Uffington White Horse and varied landscapes such as Barbury and Wallingford Castles, including the quaint Pitstone Windmill. The mysterious circle known as The Sanctuary, a site dating back to about 2500 BC initially comprising wooden posts and stones, has been marked out in modern times with concrete markers where these ancient structures would have stood. National Trails underscored the path's historical importance, stating: "For, at least 5,000 years and maybe many more, people, including drovers, traders and invaders, have walked or ridden The Ridgeway." Detailing further, they said: "As part of a prehistoric track, once stretching about 250 miles (400 Km) from the Dorset coast to the Wash on the Norfolk coast, it provided a route over the high ground for travellers which was less wooded and drier than routes through the springline villages below." Today, the iconic route remains a beloved haunt for walkers, runners, cyclists, and equestrians alike, all lured by its rich tapestry of nature and deep-seated historical resonance, according to a report by the Express, reports the Mirror. The Ridgeway National Trail stretches a remarkable 87 miles through the English landscape, steeped in heritage and spectacular natural beauty. Traversing two unequalled Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the North Wessex Downs and The Chilterns, this six-part segmented track attracts with its dramatic views spanning from the west side of the River Thames to the captivating eastern reaches. With majestic outlooks over open downland, secluded trails, and a plethora of ancient sites in the West, the trail provides an abundance of eye-catching prospects. Meanwhile, The Chilterns section tempts ramblers with its picturesque wooded valleys, thriving wildlife havens, and picture-postcard villages. Sharing her journey on TripAdvisor, Louise Head commented: "The walk to see Wayland Smithy is so worth it. It is a beautiful place so atmospheric." Another ardently recommended segment was White Horse Hill, with one walker asserting: "The walk up to White Horse hill is a lovely walk thoroughly recommend it." A traveller from Aberdeen expressed awe over the trail's deep-rooted history, noting: "The Ridgeway follows an 87 mile long route used since prehistoric times by travellers and herdsmen." To tread the same ground as those from aeons past left them enthralled: "It's amazing to think you're treading in the footsteps of our ancient ancestors." Additionally, another outdoor enthusiast remarked: "The trail runs from Overton Hill to Ivinghoe Beacon, but of course you don't have to walk it all! We walked a section in the Chilterns, and midweek it was very quiet. It's a well signposted route offering lovely views over rolling countryside." A TripAdvisor user from Exeter recounted their journey: "Myself and a friend rode the full length of the ridgeway, starting in West Kennet and picking up the Swan way and Icknield way riders route east of Streatley where the Ridgeway itself becomes a footpath." They added: "We averaged 18 - 20 miles per day which was a nice easy pace allowing time for sightseeing." The user concluded with their total distance and recommendation: "Our total mileage was 103. It is a lovely ride with stunning scenery and little roadwork. "We found horse friendly BandB's along the route which meant we had to carry less gear. Highly recommend!"
Daily Mirror
02-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
UK's oldest road that's 87-miles long and was used by people 5,000 years ago
The Ridgeway National Trail is Britain's oldest road, and dates back to over 5,000 years ago. The 87-mile prehistoric track was used by travellers, shepherds and warriors Touted as Britain's oldest road, the Ridgeway National Trail is a timeworn path that has witnessed over 5,000 years of footsteps. Starting at the World Heritage Site in Avebury, Wiltshire, this prehistoric track spans 87 miles and culminates at Ivinghoe Beacon, known for its breathtaking vistas in the Chiltern Hills. The trail not only offers a walk through history but also guides explorers past an array of remarkable sites, from Neolithic tombs to the folkloric Uffington White Horse, and diverse habitats like Barbury Castle, Wallingford Castle, and even the whimsical Pitstone Windmill. The Sanctuary, dating back to about 2500 BC with its original configuration of wooden posts and stones connected to Avebury, is now indicated with concrete markers denoting where these structures once stood. National Trails revealed the longstanding significance of the trail by stating: "For, at least 5,000 years and maybe many more, people, including drovers, traders and invaders, have walked or ridden The Ridgeway." They further explained: "As part of a prehistoric track, once stretching about 250 miles (400 Km) from the Dorset coast to the Wash on the Norfolk coast, it provided a route over the high ground for travellers which was less wooded and drier than routes through the springline villages below." Currently, the storied path is a favoured spot for hikers, runners, cyclists, and horse riders, drawn by both its natural splendour and its deep historical roots, reports the Express. The Ridgeway National Trail, spanning an impressive 87 miles across the English countryside, is teeming with history and stunning landscapes. Two unparalleled Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) – the North Wessex Downs and The Chilterns – beckon explorers along this divided six-section path known for its breathtaking scenery from West of the River Thames to the enchanting East. The trail boasts awe-inspiring vistas of open downland, secluded tracks, and a treasure trove of historical sites in the West, while walkers can indulge in the scenic beauty of wooded valleys, flourishing nature reserves, and idyllic villages in The Chilterns. TripAdvisor user Louise Head shared her experience, saying: "The walk to see Wayland Smithy is so worth it. It is a beautiful place so atmospheric. "The walk up too White Horse hill is a lovely walk thoroughly recommend it." Another hiker from Aberdeen marvelled at the ancient connection, writing: "The Ridgeway follows an 87 mile long route used since prehistoric times by travellers and herdsmen. "It's amazing to think you're treading in the footsteps of our ancient ancestors." One more trekker added: "The trail runs from Overton Hill to Ivinghoe Beacon, but of course you don't have to walk it all! We walked a section in the Chilterns, and midweek it was very quiet. It's a well signposted route offering lovely views over rolling countryside." A TripAdvisor user from Exeter shared their experience: "Myself and a friend rode the full length of the ridgeway, starting in West Kennet and picking up the Swan way and Icknield way riders route east of Streatley where the Ridgeway itself becomes a footpath. "We averaged 18 - 20 miles per day which was a nice easy pace allowing time for sightseeing. "Our total mileage was 103. It is a lovely ride with stunning scenery and little roadwork. We found horse friendly B&B's along the route which meant we had to carry less gear. Highly recommend!"
BBC News
07-03-2025
- Climate
- BBC News
Cliff-slip at Overstrand beach forces closure of promenade
A promenade has been closed after what the local council described as a cliff-slip along the Norfolk coast.A section of sea wall at Overstrand near Cromer, which is commonly used as a promenade, has been closed by North Norfolk District images on Facebook, the council warned people not to "cross the barriers or attempt to walk around the material".A spokesperson said the section would be closed until further notice while the situation was assessed. The spokesperson said "access from the clifftop" at either end remained open but "care should be taken".Access to the beach was open at either end of the sea wall, but the public should "check tide times, as high tide reaches the sea wall"."Please be aware that in the interest of public safety, the section is closed until further notice, while the council assesses the material slip and access issues," they added."Please do not cross the barriers or attempt to walk around the material."It said the Norfolk Coast Path had been diverted by National Trails, to avoid the top of the cliff.A sign erected on a barrier by the council reads: "Overstrand central promenade closed due to cliff slip. No through access at high tide." Follow Norfolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.
