Summer 2014

Almost 25 years after Britain’s biggest afforestation project began, the National Forest has a new long-distance path that showcases the extraordinary transformation of a scarred, post-industrial landscape into thriving, mature woodland. But, as David Atkinson discovers, remnants of far more ancient times remain.

Artist and Cheshire Rambler Christine Maher refused to let a terrifying accident put her off walking. In fact, it spurred her on to conquer ever more challenging terrain.

From illegal Highland stills to walled-up Cornish caves, Britain has a rich history of illicit trade – and the bootleggers’ old trails and hideouts make for perfect, swashbuckling family walks. Try smuggling one of these into your next family holiday.

With the publication of his book, Feral, last year, environmental journalist George Monbiot emerged as one of the strongest voices in favour of rewilding Britain’s landscapes. We walked with him in the foothills of the Cambrian Mountains to find out why he calls the area a desert, and why he thinks Britain should once again be the domain of wolves, bears and bison.

Wales could be on the cusp of becoming the greatest outdoors destination in the world, if a review of legislation by the Welsh Government goes the right way. Combining the freedom to roam with a national network of celebrated footpaths, the new access arrangements would allow outdoors enthusiasts to walk, swim, camp and climb responsibly across the entire country. But not everyone is excited by the prospect. We investigate what options are on the table, and how close the dream scenario for walkers is to becoming a reality.

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