North England Trails Resources
The long-distance trails of northern England are among the finest in the UK, crossing some of the country’s most spectacular and wild regions. Routes include the Coast to Coast Walk, The Pennine Way, Hadrian’s Wall Path, The Dales Way, The Cleveland and Yorkshire Wolds Ways and The Teesdale Way.
Many of these long-distance trails are designated as National Trails, long-distance routes through the finest landscapes. Altogether, in England and Wales, there are about 2,500 miles (4,000km) of National Trail, providing walking opportunities in the wild and beautiful parts of Britain. National Trails were established as part of the post-war programme to keep areas of Britain “special” and to protect them from development. The first such route, the Pennine Way, opened in 1965, and since then another 14 have been designated in England and Wales.
Each of the trails covered has unique qualities. Both of the Coast to Coast routes and Hadrian’s Wall Path provide a real sense of exploration and journey, the latter having the additional benefit of outstanding historical interest. Other routes such as the Pennine Way are well-known challenges, often providing life-changing experiences for both young and old. Lesser-known trails such as the Teesdale Way and Dales Way pass through scenery untouched by modern living, and have country inns and quiet villages nestling into the hillsides to help you relax into a more measured way of life.
Useful websites:
www.nationaltrail.co.uk
www.sherpavan.com (Back-up service for walkers & cyclists)
www.penninewayassociation.co.uk
Accomodation:
www.yha.org.uk (Youth Hostel Association)
Guided / Self guided trips:
www.wanderingaengustreks.com (Escorted walking holidays)
www.mickledore.co.uk (Walking and cycling holidays)
www.northwestwalks.co.uk
www.thewalkingholidaycompany.co.uk (Walking holidays along the National Trails of Britain)
