Art of Living | 7th May 2024
Boot Up: How to find a walk near you
Find the best places to walk in the UK
There’s nothing better than getting outside in the fresh open air.
For most, walking is one of the easiest outdoor activities as it requires little preparation – you simply just step outside. But how many times have you found yourself following the same paths or sticking to your usual route?
Discovering somewhere new has many benefits; it’ll increase your motivation to get out, add excitement to your walk and you’ll return home with a new level of satisfaction and appreciation for what’s around you. Here are some tips to help you find a new walk near you.
Before you walk
Having the right clothing for the weather and a good pair of comfortable shoes or boots will keep you feeling great. The perfect hiking outfit includes Aventurite or MAX stretch trousers which are shower resistant, handy for if you get caught in some spring showers. ACAI’s freedom mid layer or performance full zip are great layering pieces. If you need some breathable and lightweight pieces the wander shorts and on the go tee are must haves for your hiking wardrobe. Layers are great for the ever-changing typical British weather. Always check the forecast before you set off. Fuel is key and you should always carry enough water or know where you can refill. Never underestimate the importance of snacks. A selection of your favourite treats boosts your physical energy and your mood too.
Be inspired by others
If you don’t have time to plan your own, why not do a walk someone else has recommended? Apps like Komoot & All Trails have hundreds of thousands of walking routes across the UK. You can filter by difficulty, distance and rating. Joining a local group or club will also help expand your knowledge of where to go and you’ll be less likely to talk yourself out of exercising if others are depending on you. For example you can join an ACAI Outdoorsing Club event which are free hiking events for women up and down the country.
Map reading basics
Whether you look online, use an app or have a paper map, you’ll be surprised at how many paths and walkways there are across the UK. Even in urban areas, there are many public rights of way, some you may not have known were there. Start by opening a map of your local area and finding a path you’ve never ventured down. Public rights of way such as footpaths and bridleways are shown on an OS Map by a green dotted line. See if you can join two or even three together to create a route. In built-up areas you may need to use pavements or alleyways to join off-road paths together. A map will also highlight green and blue spaces around you. Woodland, fields, lakes and rivers are great places to go for a stroll.
Just go for it
Sometimes it’s nice to get outside and just go. You don’t always need to have a plan before you pull on your boots and sometimes the best new places are stumbled upon when you’re least expecting it. However, it’s important you don’t get lost as this can add time and hassle to your day. Always tell someone where you are going and what time you will be back so you can step outside, wander and see where you end up!
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