Public transport for walkers

Walking is the most sustainable means of transport - except when you drive 50 miles there and back to go on a five mile walk! Excessive car use doesn't only impact on the environment in a wider sense, it also causes the very specific and local problems of congestion and inappropriate parking in popular countryside areas. That's why the Ramblers encourages walkers with cars to leave them at home whenever they can.

Hopping on a bus, tram or train to get to and from your walk can also add to your enjoyment. You can plan more flexible walks because you don't have to return to your car, making linear walks much easier. You can forget the hassle of finding a parking space and the worry of car crime, and there's no reason not to relax over a pint in a pub along the way.

It's true that some remote country areas have little or no public transport, but don't just assume that's the case where you want to walk: you may be surprised that there are more services than you think.

Useful websites