In 2026 the Coast to Coast will become an ‘official’ National Trail. This comes with undoubted benefits; increased funding, better path maintenance and protection against land management practices. However with the Coast to Coast in particular this can be a poisoned chalice. A National Trail, what is it? A National Trail is a long distance…

We have introduced a number of Walking/Hiking Mini Breaks for 2026. They are a combination of a small group (no more than 10) walks with a professional guide (usually myself). The walks are spread across the Yorkshire Dales, the Lake District and Northumberland. We even have Navigation Training Weekends in the Yorkshire Dales. The Mini…

The increasing numbers of walkers heading in to the outdoors has combined unfavourably with the increase in technology leading to a reduction and, in many cases, loss of traditional Navigation Skills. I have written below my views on why it is happening and why it is such a shame. What is Navigation? “The art or…

There is nothing more rewarding than a snowy walk through our upland countryside. The contrast of colours, the light, the sense of adventure, physical challenges and breathtaking views are unique in the fells of Britain after a good snowfall. Choosing Place Fell for a Snowy Walk Last week I enjoyed a splendid walk up Place…

There is something immensely satisfying in walking a Long Distance footpath. A sense of achievement, the rhythm of walking attained after the first couple of days, the sense of a journey all satisfy the inner desires of many of us. Alternatively just enjoy the beautiful scenery. All over the world these long distance walks (or…

Where2walk have published a number of Guide Books on the walks and mountains of the British Isles. They are all written by local, walking enthusiasts with a unique knowledge of their local area and the best walks. Most of the 9 books are only available to buy via the Where2walk website or local bookshops. This…

It is estimated that nearly 100,000 walkers came to the Yorkshire Dales to climb the 3 Peaks (24 miles, 5,500 feet of climbing).  The difficulty and distance make a completion a cause for great satisfaction. Sadly most will never return. As a guide on the 3 Peaks I would estimate 65 to 75% of walkers…

The Lake District is renowned for its lakes, its in the name! Combined with the surrounding fells they characterize the landscape. However it is not always straightforward to find the best ones. This is particularly so when much of the shoreline is privately owned and not accessible (shame!) to the public. These are my 10…

The “Dales 30” are the mountains in the Yorkshire and Cumbrian Dales over 2,000 feet high. They are usually climbed on day trips. However to appreciate the mountains to the full why not combine 2 days in a series of weekend breaks. 2 days hiking, 2 nights in a country pub in a pretty Yorkshire…

I recently spent a pleasant half day walking and exploring the rarely visited western flanks of Whernside. I was only able to complete this lovely walk because in Britain we have a Right to Roam in our country’s designated Access Land. Heading up from the col between Kingsdale and Deepdale to the summit, I then…

The Yorkshire Dales has a rich and wonderful history. Complete these 10 walks and educate yourself on the history and ever changing nature of the area. Getting on the ground will give you a much better idea of what makes the Dales special than any TV show or tik tok video. Enjoy these Walks through…

Visiting the Lake District for many is all about big days on the fells. The area is fortunately blessed with some wonderful and world famous circuits. All the hikes offer long and satisfying days on the high mountains. These are my favourite 10, in no particular order. 1. Pillar and the Mosedale Horseshoe 8.5 miles,…