Britain's Favourite Path

East England, Layer de la Haye

Up until a few weeks ago, I thought real beauty could only be found in places like Wales, Scotland and Cumbria, but having only recently started walking most days around my local village just a few miles outside one of the fastest growing cities in the UK, I realised that beauty can be found everywhere! I now relish my walks just a few miles from the "hub-bub", soaking up the sights and sounds of nature.

Nominated by Theresa Calver

 

Midlands, Kinder Scout

Every path is special to me. They have all been my constant throughout life from childhood to now as I creep towards old age. This path, particularly when the heather is blooming, is the most uplifting stretch of path close to me where for a short while I can disappear into my thoughts and the landscape and recharge my soul. The views, when it's not misty, encourage you to stop and stare and wonder at nature and the fascinating quirky gritstone rock formations scattered around bring out the child in me, which has really truly honestly, never gone away.

Nominated by Kerry Colebrook

 

North East England, Simonside Ridge

The Simonside Ridge Walk holds deep significance for me since I went as a child. It's cherished for its wild and rugged beauty, drawing walkers for years. The approximately 4-mile hike culminates at the Simonside Crags, revealing spectacular panoramic views that encompass 360 degrees of Northumberland, stretching to the Cheviots and the North Sea. 

Beyond the physical ascent through forest to the exposed ridge, the area is layered with history. Walkers can explore Bronze Age settlements and burial tombs, alongside a 2,000-year-old hillfort at Lordenshaws, and the site of a Tudor warning beacon. Ancient 330-million-year-old sandstones speak of deep geological time. Folklore of the Simonside Dwarfs, known as Duergar, adds a touch of mystery. As a Special Area of Conservation, its diverse wildlife and valuable peat bog enhance its appeal to nature enthusiasts. It's a popular walking destination, and for some, a precious place to find solitude. This potent blend of landscape, history, and personal connection makes Simonside truly compelling and a place I will never tired of returning to.

Nominated by Andrew Thorn

 

North West England, Ambleside to Grasmere

A favourite walk for me and wife. This beautiful route is so called the Coffin Circular Route because many years ago, coffins would be carried to the only consecrated ground in St Oswald graveyard, Grasmere where William Wordsworth and family members are buried. So, many times I've discussed that it is to be considered a location for my ashes to be scattered not just because of it's name but also because it has special memories of wonderful weekends spent here. Starting from the stunning village of Grasmere it's also one of Lakelands more easier walks which always went down well with Julie.

Nominated by Ian Maggiore

 

Scotland, West Highland Way

This is part of the West Highland Way. I took the picture on my 96th time walking the West Highland Way. I have walked it with four of my children and will be walking it in September for the 100th time and all my children will be joining me for this special walk. Having walked it every month of the year, this particular part along Loch Lomond provides spectacular views in any weather. The West Highland Way was Scotland's first official long distance walk and was officially opened in 1980. I first walked it in 1993. I'm trying to get to 100 times before my 70th birthday later this year. Will I stop after 100? No!

Nominated by Robert Marshall

 

South East England, Halnaker

It leads up a hill to a windmill in Sussex. The joy is in the tree-tunnelled sunken path itself as it changes due to the play of light not only from season to season but from hour to hour. A glorious path!

Nominated by Jeremy Cook-Abbott

 

South West England, South West Coast Path

Healing solitude with incredible light, sounds of nature and breathtaking views - simply, heaven on earth.

Nominated by Jonathan Jones

 

Wales, Yr Wyddfa

I walked this path to raise money for mental health...it was a beautiful path and stunning views. But it was hard and I felt broken many times.  This feels special because it shows on hardest days your mind is strong and can get you through.

Nominated by Nicola Teal

 

Have you made your decision?