England walking holidays travel advice

The wonder of walking in England

June Zaft from our supplier Country Walks:
“It is no surprise that walking is one of England's most popular outdoor activities. The countryside is awash with a dense network of footpaths, many hundreds of years old. Originally formed to link one village with another, they still today wind through the landscape to all kinds of hidden delights. Then there's the thrill of discovery. On foot one can enjoy the detail, discover what nature has in store, choose which path to take, wonder who will one meet on the way? All that's required is a map, compass, enquiring mind and a sense of adventure! And in England one is never far from 'civilisation' so there are no real dangers.”

Packing tips

Paul Day, Let’s Go Walking:
“My advice for walkers in England is always: do your research, wear good walking boots to support the ankles with two pairs of socks, and pack some chocolate and cereal bars to get you from one pub to the next.”

Melanie McAnaw walking holiday expert from our supplier, Headwater:
“I always carry a small amount of talcum powder. It might sound strange but it’s good for reducing friction and redness if you find yourself with any blisters, chaffing or heat rash. It can also help your feet stay dry and keep your thighs from chafing over long distances if you use a little before (and after) your walk. A small roll of adhesive bandage/plaster (and something to cut it with) can also be a lifesaver if you do feel yourself developing a blister. It can sometimes make the difference between a nice walk and a painful slog!”

“Walking the Cumbria Way is an exciting exploration of the history and geology of this part of England. The most memorable moment was cresting Stake Pass and descending into the remote and grand valley of Langstrathe Beck with its stone walls reaching the crags that cap the fells. The valley remains an empty and timeless wilderness… Sturdy boots and good rain gear, including a pack cover are necessary, as are sunglasses and sunscreen. The weather is variable. You'll see more if you have done some reading about the history and the area.” – Diana Staaf on the Cumbria Way

“Our holiday on the North Downs Trail in late spring was breathtaking. The bluebells, primroses and fields of rape, punctuated with the occasional pheasant and fox, while doing a self-guided hike, made us feel like Adam and Eve alone in Paradise… Be prepared to walk pretty seriously all day and have a good sense of direction. We found that following the maps and guide book (with thorough preparation from Derek) was challenging, but very satisfying and added tremendously to the experience.” – Carol R Mehler on the Pilgrims’ Way

“Recommended to families with children. Unforgettable.” – Malgorzata Jokipii in the Cotswolds

“Bear in mind that the way marking is poor and indeed nonexistent in places. Get the Cicerone Guide and also the Rucksack Readers “Cumbria Way”; plus the biggest scale ordnance survey map and a compass. Good warm and weatherproof walking clothing is essential even in July” – Stephen Allen on the Cumbria Way

“We flew from the US, and added a pre-day in Rochester and a post-day in Canterbury. We enjoyed those days very much, and they helped to set apart the special rural quality of our trail days. Derek is very knowledgeable about the history of the area - listen to his stories and tales, they added a lot to our enjoyment of what we were viewing. He also provides an audio tour of the trail, which we listened to each night in advance of the next day’s journey.” – Ann Jensen on the Pilgrims’ Way

“During the course of the week one cannot fail to be impressed by the sights seen on the Thames Path… make sure that the daily walks are within their capabilities, even though the paths are on the level.” – Graham Stenger on our Thames Path walking holiday