How to avoid Blisters when Walking

 

Getting blisters when walking has to be the number one annoyance that is sure to completely ruin your walk. Having a blister will put a quick halt to your walk pretty quickly and you out of action until the blister has healed. The best advice when it comes to blisters when walking is prevention, prevention, prevention. Sometimes though these things happen, so how do we go about avoiding blisters when walking?

The first way to keep your feet happy is to choose the right pair of shoes. Go into a variety of walking stores and try on all shapes and sizes until you are perfectly sure that you’ve found the most comfortable pair for your feet. What works for one person won’t necessarily work for another so don’t go on recommendation, just go and find out for yourself. Don’t be lured into thinking the old ‘they’ll be great once I’ve broken them in’ - this almost never works. In order for them to be comfortable whilst walking they need to feel comfortable in store right from the get go. Chose a pair with a good sized toe box because toes rubbing into each other and toenails in the picture too can make for the perfect recipe for blister when walking. Also if shoes are too big and sloppy then your feet will move around inside them and make for lots of rubbing and potential blisters.

Now, having said not to rely on ‘breaking them in’ the next piece of advice is actually to break them in. Although they should feel super comfortable in the shop and around the house, when they’ve been on your feet for hours on end during a hike they may tell a different story. So do wear them around the house or out for short walks at any given opportunity to get your feet used to them and them to your feet before you embark on your first big hike. This should set up a good foundation to avoid blisters when walking.

If you look after your feet you can actually toughen them up whilst taking care of them. If you start getting calluses don’t be tempted to file them away, they may not look great but they are a walkers friend since they toughen up the skin making them far less blister prone. You don’t have to ignore them though, moisturising them will help avoid painful cracks which will hinder your walking nearly as much as blisters themselves. Some professional long distance walkers and runners actually toughen up their feet by soaking them in tannic acid or tea soak which toughens up the skin and helps avoid blisters when walking. Lubricating your feet with vaseline is a good idea too, this reduces the friction that results in blisters. Rub it on your feet under your socks and you’ll feel the difference. It’s worth noting though that Vaseline doesn’t easily come out of socks.

During your walk make sure to keep your feet dry. Sweaty or wet feet are far more prone to blisters so if your shoes get very wet then make sure to take them off, and your socks, and air your feet. Keep spare pairs of dry socks in your bag to replace wet ones. Some people swear by using antiperspirant on the feet before walking to keep sweat at bay. If you know you are prone to blisters then you can cover them before you walk. There are all sorts of option of plasters and tape to pop over the spot and make sure you avoid blisters when walking.

Whatever measure you go to to stop blisters there will always be times when you just can’t avoid it, but if you are prepared and do the best you can to stop the little blighters showing up then you will notice a marked difference and will really have much more enjoyable walking experiences.

3 City Walks in Ireland

When you think of going walking in Ireland you immediately think of beautiful uninterrupted countryside, mountains, rivers and lakes, but did you know that there are some really fantastic city walks in Ireland too? These can often be overshadowed by countryside walks which is understandable, the Irish countryside is simply beautiful, but we think you’ll love these three city walks too. 1.Dublin Dublin is a bustling city on Ireland’s east coast at the mouth of the River Liffey. Primarily people visit Dublin to check out its array of shops, pubs, restaurants, hotels and tourist attractions, but hidden amongst the hustle and bustle you’ll find some fabulous city walks that even the most avid hiker will love. Being a relatively small city you can do some self-guided city walks that will allow you to see some of the major attractions without having to walk for miles and miles. O’Connell Bridge is a great central starting point and did you know it is reported as being the only bridge in the world that is as wide as it is long? From here you are bang in the middle to walk to all parts of the city, with the affluent southside on one side and the once slumsy northside on the other. Check out the O’Connell memorial and the angel crushing a serpent, plus the Irish wolfhound that is complete with bullet holes from the fighting in 1916. The Garden of Rememberance and Moore Street Market are great to visit plus the Ha'penny Bridge, Temple Bar and the Bank of Ireland. Trinity College is a beautiful, impressive building which can then follow along to Grafton Street, St Stephen's Green and Merrion Row. There is a lot to see in the city centre and it depends how much time you’ve allowed as to how far you can go and what you can see, so pick your wishlist and crack on with your city walk.

If you’d like to get away from the hustle and bustle a bit then head down to the docklands where you’ll find stunning modern architecture, historic buildings, art galleries and river trips. If you fancy a little peace and quiet you could head up to the Hellfire Club / Montpelier Loop trail which starts near Montpelier Hill, north of Dublin’s Marlay Park and Edmonston and loops around. At the top are the ruins of Mount Perlier, now known as the Hellfire Club.

2.Galway Galway is a harbour city on Ireland’s west coast sitting where the River Corrib meets the Atlantic Ocean and is the second largest city in Ireland. Think festivals, beautiful coastline, independent book stores, pubs, aquariums and museums. Since you’re on foot you could do what many have done before you and take a pub walking tour, you’ll get to see the city whilst enjoying a beer or two in traditional Irish pubs where the log fires are lit and the locals are welcoming. If pub city walks aren’t your thing though we are sure the Salthill walk will be. With one of the most beautiful panoramas in Galway, Irish countryside stretched for miles and sandy beaches at your fingertips you are sure to enjoy this walk. You could also have a horse ride on the beach, play golf or even go diving.

3.Cork Cork is just inland from Ireland’s southwest coast and is centred around the river Lee. This is a university city so is busy and vibrant whilst having Irish countryside on its doorstep. You could easily do a whistle stop tour of the city in 60 to 90 minutes and if you’ve got longer then pick your must-see areas and wander around soaking up the atmosphere. Many people who live here will tell you that Cork holds the real essence of Ireland so take in the culture, chat to locals and enjoy your city walks. Places of interest to visit might include Cork City Goal, the English Markets, Farmgate Cafe perched on a balcony overlooking the markets is a great place to grab a coffee, Cork Opera House, Market Lane and Triskel Arts Centre are to name but a few.

If you fancy exploring the areas that surround Cork then you could try the Tracton Wood Walk. Tracton Wood is a long narrow V shaped wood in a river valley. Walks here are really beautiful but the wood is quite steep in parts so best to bear that in mind. In the lower parts of the wood the pine trees are dense which means this area is often quite dark which can feel like a real adventure, especially for little ones. There are some lovely, relatively flat trails by the river.

Ireland is a country with many faces, from luscious countryside, to beaches and mountains, there is so much to explore but certainly don’t overlook their fabulous cities and the city walks that these offer.

5 of the Most Luxurious Hotels in Ireland

We all want to get the most for our money and read about bargain hotels and how to travel on a budget, but sometimes you might just want to splash out on a bit of luxury - perhaps you’re celebrating an anniversary or have been saving hard for an exciting trip. Ireland has many a magnificent luxury hotel to offer if you are looking for that really special experience and we’ve listed our five favourites below.

1. Dromoland Castle, Hotel and County Estate, Clare

Dromoland Castle Hotel is a stunning, majestic castle which was previously home to the O’Briens of Dromoland who were the Kings of Thomond. This luxury hotel is everything you would want from a stay in a castle; think antique chandeliers, sweeping staircases, huge welcoming log fires and luxurious plush sofas. The castle boasts a 400 acre estate that you can spend time exploring, with a lake to wander around and activities on offer like archery or a falconry experience. The luxury hotel has its own Golf and Country Club and beautiful Spa for some proper rest and relaxation. Located Conveniently close to Shannon International Airport if you are flying in and don’t want to waste precious time travelling then this is ideal.

2. The Europe Hotel & Resort, Killarney

This is one of the most popular 5 star luxury hotels in Ireland. Located in Killarney overlooking the beautiful lakes with the McGillycuddy Reeks mountain range as the backdrop, it is really breathtaking. The Europe Hotel has a real elegance, with modern meeting warm and welcoming. There are a range of activities on offer here including golf, horse riding, boating and fishing, walking and hiking, tennis, swimming, gym activities and spa treatments. You will certainly have enough to fill your time, that’s if you don’t just want to spend it sipping wine in the panorama restaurant with views that are out of this world.

3. The Marker Hotel, Dublin

The Marker Hotel is a modern, luxury hotel in the lively and wonderful city of Dublin with views out across the city. With a stunning rooftop bar and terrace serving locally sourced ingredients with innovative ideas and excellent service. If your looking for a luxury hotel in the city you can’t go far wrong with The Marker. The rooms are light and fun with fantastic views. Bespoke armchairs and sofas create the perfect space for chilling out while long console desks provide loads of space for catching up on some work if you feel inclined.

4. Hayfield Manor, Cork

If traditional, beautiful elegance is your thing then you’re going to love this  family owned, boutique luxury hotel in Cork. This is  an oasis of calm in the vibrant city of Cork nestled in private walled gardens so you really feel away from the hustle and bustle. With a number of places to dine on delicious food you can be sure you’ll eat well. They also cater for vegan and vegetarian diets. The Spa has treatment rooms for total pampering, plus an indoor heated pool with a relaxation room overlooking it. Thi hotel has luxury and relaxation at the heart of it and you can really feel that during your stay.

5. The Savoy, Limerick

This is a boutique, luxury hotel in the heart of Limerick. Situated at the gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way there are some great places to visit nearby including the Cliffs of Moher and King John’s Castle. The hotel itself is elegant and luxurious with varying room types, if you fancy splashing out a little more you could book an Executive King Room which has access to the superior executive lounge on the 7th floor. Here you can enjoy complimentary light snacks, tea and coffee. Ayurvedic spa treatments are on offer if you’re looking for some pampering and they also offer an extensive list of laser light treatments.

Ireland is abound with many a luxury hotel, please get in touch if you’d like any further information. Whatever your taste we’re pretty sure we’ll find a luxury hotel for you. From castle’s in the middle of the countryside to luxury city break hotels, Ireland is a fabulous place to visit in the winter months. Log fires are lit, hearty meals are on offer and the locals are so welcoming and friendly you’ll probably not want to go back to the daily grind.

Spooky Travel Destinations you will Love this Halloween

The end of October brings darker evenings, autumn in full flow, orange and brown leaves littering parks and streets, warm winter woolies pulled from cupboards, and of course it brings Halloween.This is an excellent time to wrap yourself up and get outside walking, the autumnal scenes are breathtaking and you could find yourself a spooky travel destination to spice things up a little. Here are our recommendations:

Whitby, England

Whitby is a beautiful town on the coast of Yorkshire, in the summer Whitby comes alive as a seaside town but in the darker, colder months Whitby has a secret; Bram Stocker spent a month staying here in July / August 1890 and it was during this time that he wrote pivotal parts of his famous book, Dracula.

During the last week of October, Whitby Abbey is illuminated and is incredible to see. This eerie light show illuminates the whole skeletal abbey and is a must see for a spooky travel destination.

There are so many wonderful walks to do in and around Whitby you will be spoilt for choice, with the Yorkshire and Cleveland Heritage Coast to the North and Robin Hood’s Bay and Ravenscar to the South, plus the North York Moors National Park inland.

The Lake District, England

Moving on from Whitby, but not by too far, lies the Lake District, a stunning region of lakes and mountains that are so serene you can really revitalise and re-energise here. Aside from the area’s natural outstanding beauty though, there lies a darker side to The Lake District that would make it a definite spooky travel destination contender.

Cumbria has its own type of ghostly ghoul labelled a boggle which are known to be more prevalent than just normal ghosts. They can come in all shapes and sizes; Whitehaven's New Town Boggle is a howling dog that if heard outside your house predicts tragedy and disaster, whilst another boggle they have in New Town is a the tall lady who stands as tall as the church steeple who wanders the towns streets and mysteriously has a stunningly beautiful face yet no head….She was supposedly murdered by her lover and if young girls see this boggle they are doomed to live their lives as spinsters.

Derry, Northern Ireland

Halloween was first celebrated in Ireland around a thousand years ago and is believed to have its roots in the ancient Gaelic festival of Samhain, with around 80,000 people celebrating the festival last year in Derry.

As far as spooky travel destinations go, this one is up there.  Samhain was the division of the year between the lighter half (summer) and the darker half (winter). At Samhain the division between this world and the otherworld was at its thinnest, allowing spirits to pass through, and hence where the festival came from. Nowadays you can expect to find a hug Halloween parade, fireworks, music and much, much more.

Northern Ireland

Stretching on from Derry, Northern Ireland holds a whole host of reason's to make it our spooky travel destination list. Because it is steeped in a long history of conflict and bloodshed, Northern Ireland is the perfect location for some of most serious ghosts with negative energy making itself known frequently according to locals.

The Crumlin Road in Gaol, for example, has an exceptionally large amount of reported paranormal activity with the most recent being a ghostly girl walking a former jail of IRA terrorists. Newcastle Harbour is another hot-spot for ghostly sightings, the area is said to be haunted by a banshee, locals claim that this manifestation of a small woman shrieks and wails with a high-pitched voice. York Road Railway Station would also be worth a visit. There have been a number of reported sightings including that of a ghostly figure reportedly sat in the station’s canteen at night, which is locked by staff at closing time, and also reports of a figure spotted in the station’s running sheds.

If you haven’t been scared off already than we hope our spooky travel destinations have provided some inspiration and you manage to get a break this Halloween season. We’d love to hear about your spooky tales….that is if you make it back alive.

Happy Halloween!

England's beautiful South Coast

We might live on a relatively small island but England’s countryside is definitely varied which is fantastic news for us walkers, as provides us with many different opportunities to find walks that suit our mood. The South Coast of England is a beautiful part of the world ranging from sandy beaches to rocky cliff edges and all in between, which means there are too many stunning walks to cover, so I’ll hand pick some personal favourites.

Ramsgate Let’s start over in the East of the south coast of England in Ramsgate. Walking the Ramsgate, Kent coast is a beautiful experience steeped in over 300 years of history and offering some wonderful natural wildlife and manmade architecture along the way. There are many ways to see this area of the south coast of England, be it along the beaches from Ramsgate to Margate, the cliff top walk from Ramsgate to Broadstairs or the Contra Trail from Ramsgate to Pegwell Bay; all really different walks offering quite different scenery and showcasing different aspects of the area. You’d be best to decide what sort of walk you’re after, sand between your toes, café lined cliff tops or nature reserve walking from the hustle and bustle of Ramsgate through to the natural peace and tranquillity of Pegwell Bay.

Sussex Moving a little West along the south coast of England brings you to beautiful Sussex, and we think you’ll love the Eastbourne to Seaford walk. This is a dramatic cliff walk starting at Eastbourne’s promenade and passing through Beachy Head as the South Downs meets the sea, Cuckemere Haven and Seven Sisters. In the summer months there are opportunities to have a dip in the ocean along the way and during the colder months the coastal views will be more than enough to keep you happy The area is on a well serviced bus route so there is no need to worry about the linear nature of this walk, you will easily find your way back if you’re happy to hop on a bus once your walk is complete. The beauty of this south coast of England walk is the undulating and magnificent cliffs that you will meet along the way. You can’t fail to be in awe, these cliffs are thought to have been formed by glacier meltwater at the end of the last Ice Age which carved steep sided valleys that became eroded by the sea and formed the beautiful cliffs we see today.

Dorset Following the south coast of England to the west we reach Dorset and the breath taking Lulworth Cove area. This is England's first natural world heritage site, and it is said that in 95 miles you can walk through 185 million years of history in just one week. If you don’t have a week, don’t worry! There are plenty of shorter walks that will equally take your breath away. The obvious highlight of this area is the Durdle Door, a natural limestone arch on the Jurassic coastline that can be reached by a walk down to a sand and shingle beach. A short but reasonably steep walk will bring you to Lulworth Cove, a beautiful little village set in a remarkable, almost full circle cove with quaint tea rooms, pubs and a scattering of shops to enjoy. The water is blue and calm here and at low tide there are some wonderful rock pools to explore. The Studland Heath nature reserve is also important to mention and well worth a visit. These dunes and heathland support threatened species such as the nightjar, sand lizard and ladybird spider. Some of the best views of the heath sweeping down to the shores of Poole Harbour are from the Agglestone – a 400 tonne rock sitting up on a hill alone, it’s very dramatic. There is wide range of habit here including sand dunes, bogs and fresh water lagoons. This is a beautiful part of the south coast of England that is not to be missed.

Cornwall Moving west again we reach the undeniably picturesque Cornwall, which offers rugged windswept landscape through to stunning sandy beaches. We love the Porthcurno to St Ives walks in West Cornwall on the landsend peninsula and about as far West as you can get on the South Coast of England. This whole route will take you a few days but can certainly be broken down into small walks, depending what you are after. Porthcurno offers a beautiful, sweeping bay with some of the clearest waters you’ll find in Cornwall and during summer months if you’re lucky you may find seals and basking sharks, a real treat. Along the route you’ll pass through Sennen Cove and on a summers night the open air Minack Theatre is a magical experience. St Ives is treat in itself too, being Cornwall’s most famous town this seaside is seemingly a subtropical oasis where the beaches are golden and beautiful vegetation surrounds.

These walks are just scratching the surface of the striking south coast of England and I could continue to waffle, but the best thing to do is to go along and find out for yourself, you really won’t be disappointed.

Is Walking a Good Form of Exercise?

We all know that if we want to burn calories and look amazing and trim we need to run a million miles a day or jump on an evil spin bike or something equally painful and horrible, but what about walking; is walking a good form of exercise?

Well according to The Stroke Association a brisk 30 minute walk every day will help to prevent and control high blood pressure that can cause strokes, in turn reducing the risk of having one by up to 27%, certainly not to be sniffed at.

Walking is also great for strengthening your heart and reducing the risk of heart disease. Findings from a large health study told that our bodies use the same amount of energy for moderate intensity walking as you do during vigorous intensity running, resulting in similar reduction in risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.

So let’s say you want to lose some weight, is walking as good as hitting the gym? Well supposedly all we need to do is walk faster and longer than we currently do to shed some pounds.  A two minute walk to your local shop isn’t going to shred body fat, but a brisk 30-60 minute walk a few times a week will definitely burn calories and get your metabolism going. Walking is a low-impact cardiovascular exercise, metabolism is the process of substances (i.e. food) being broken down and used for energy. So when walking, how much you burn and how fast your metabolism works is down to how fast you walk, for how long, whether you walk up hill and so on. You could certainly use walking as a form of exercise to lose weight though without any doubt, you just need to increase your personal effort so that your metabolism burns those calories.

If you are young and fit and want to push yourself when walking then uphill is a great way to do this. Uphill walking has been proved to increase fat metabolism to keep blood glucose levels high. Less able people may want to be cautious with the hill walks though, heading upwards brings with it worse weather and more chances of accidents happening. If you selected a hill walk setting on a treadmill you’d still achieve the desired results, but let’s face it who really wants to do that when you could be walking outdoors?

An interesting piece of research found that women who walked for nine hours per week experienced an overall lower body fat percentage and an increase metabolic rate. This compares to those who walked for just one hour a week and did not enjoy these benefits. However, one longer five hour brisk walk seemed to achieve the same results and in less time.

We are sold on the fact that walking is a good form of exercise, alongside the health benefits and the weight loss help if that’s your aim, it is also worth noting that walking has been found time and time again to positively boost mental health and help clear your mind.

Time to dig out those walking boots and breathe in some fresh air!

UK Family Friendly Walks

We think of walking as a family friendly activity and of course it really is, but certain walks can be more suited to different age groups. Just like you wouldn’t send somebody with walking difficulties up and down steep and rocky terrains, you might also want to take some factors into consideration when walking as a family of varying ages and abilities. Getting children into walking at a young age can influence their habits in later life, hopefully leading to a healthier and more active lifestyle, which is exactly what we all want for our children. So which are the best family friendly walks nationally and how can we spark our children’s interest in these? Let’s discuss.

It’s always good to choose an interesting walking spot when accompanied by children. They don’t want to be walking long and flat paths, they would much rather be exploring, climbing over logs, running through forests and splashing through puddles. Don’t be in a hurry to reach your destination, stop at look at all of the plants and bugs on route, discuss the surrounding countryside and it can even be fun to make up games to play along the way. This will hold your children’s interest and make your walk really fun for everybody.

We love the Kerry Ridgeway on the Welsh Borders. This family friendly walk would certainly keep the littlies entertained with views of 70 miles or more, from Snowdonia and the Brecon Beacons in Wales across to the Shropshire hills, it’s really quite breath taking. This is also a red-kite breeding area so animal lovers will enjoy spotting these beautiful birds.

Next up is Walberswick nature reserve in Suffolk. The variety on offer here is enough to keep all ages happy and so makes for a really family friendly walk. Here you’ll find sand dunes, estuary marshes, saline lagoons and shingle beaches, plus a lovely circular walk. You can even hop on the ferry on the return route if little legs are becoming tired.

Brownsea Island Nature Reserve in Dorset must definitely make the list. After jumping on a ferry from Sandbanks, Poole, you’re transported to an island with diverse habitat, flooded woodland, lakes, reed beds and pine woods. This is a really beautiful spot that feels like a little break away from the real world. As autumn approaches it’s a great time to go and spot the red squirrels on the island. On route back you should definitely have a stroll on beautiful sand banks beach to round off your day.

Speke Hall in Liverpool is another wonderfully family friendly walk. With hidden paths through ancient woodland it’s a playground for children. There are many butterflies, beetles and birds to be spotted in this area which will go down well with those little bug enthusiasts!

Our final fave family friendly walk is Brockhampton Estate wildlife walk in Herefordshire. This area is brimming with wildlife from ravens and woodpeckers to insects and all kind of flowers and trees. There is a 30 minute route which is nice and short and is also dog friendly. The magical thing about this trail is the oak carved sculptures you’ll find along the way as you walk through large areas of ancient oak woodland. There are also lovely waterside paths around a small lake and along a little stream.

We hope there are some useful tips here and you manage to get out on a family friendly walk.  It can be really special as a family, the children can be free and spontaneous and it’s a great way to spend quality time together. The fresh air and nature is great for everyone’s mind set and will help the kiddies sleep well… you can thank us later!

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Woodland Walking on the Emerald Isle

Irish forest parks generally have a great emphasis on recreational facilities and most have marked walking trails, cafes, campsites and car parks, so if you feel like a woodland walk then this is a great way to do it. In total, there are twenty forest parks in Ireland so plenty to choose from. We’ve selected a couple of our favourites: Portuma Forest Park, Galway

Portuma Forest Park covers almost 450 hectares. There are four woodland walk trails of varying distances and two mountain bike trails; both are easy rides suitable for all ages that take you along beautiful lake shores and through the woodland. A notable feature of the park is the yew and juniper trees in open woodland along the lake shore. The park has a large population of fallow deer along with pine marten, fox, badger and red squirrel. There is also a big inland colony of cormorants nesting in one of the islands.

Avondale Forest Park, Wicklow

Avondale Forest Park is the birthplace of Irish Forestry. There are three main woodland walks at Avondale; The River Walk is definitely the longest and hardest with steep descents and climbs. Walking alongside the river you pass under two railway bridges and there are stunning river views not to mention the view of Lovers Leap further up the hill. Certainly worth the effort you’ll put in. The Second woodland walk is the Tree Trail where you will meet trees from many corners of the world. Thirdly The Railway Walk which is a linear walk from Rathdrum railway station through the forest to Avondale House. There are also some great leisure cycling routes, orienteering, a children’s playground and a picnic site.

Ards Forest Park, Donegal

Ard’s Forest is certainly one of the most beautiful places you could choose to do a woodland walk. It is 480 hectares and contains a large diversity of plants and wildlife. Ard’s Forest boasts sandy beaches and rivers for those who like to dip their toes and be by the water, plus nature walks, picnic areas and children’s play parks. There are also historical and archaeological interests with in the park including the remains of four ring forts and a number of megalithic tombs. You must also reach the numerous viewing points to see the spectacular views of the surrounding countryside – there is certainly something for all members of the family here. It has a really serene and relaxing feel so if you’re in need of some time out or just fancy a woodland walk in exquisite surroundings then it will be perfect for you.  

Woodland Walks in the UK

As the summer begins to fade away and thoughts turn to chillier autumn days there is no reason to pack your walking boots away. The coming months bring some of the most beautiful days to be out in the open. Leaves start changing colour, the air becomes cool and crisp and we guarantee there is absolutely nothing better than going for a woodland walk.

We’ve selected four woodland walks we think you might find rather wonderful.

A great place to begin is the one and only Westonbirt Arboretum. Every visit to this place still leaves me with a sense of calm and awe at nature’s finest efforts on show here. Not far from the market town of Tetbury, Westonbirt is home to a world class tree collection, wonderfully inspiring landscape and seasonal rhythms that the young and the old will adore.  There is also a café, play area, shop and toilets. The best advice is to wander off the beaten track to find the very greatest of beauty spots nestled amongst the trees.

Next on our list of woodland walks is Sydenham Hill Wood which forms part of the largest remnants of the old Great North Wood, surprisingly located in the London Borough of Southwark.  London is perhaps not the first place that springs to mind when daydreaming of peaceful, fresh, woodland walks, but honestly trust us on this one. A haven away from the super-speed pace of London living, you can expect to find over 200 species of trees and flowering plants, a vast array of fungi, rare insects, birds and woodland mammals.  A railway once passed through the wood and you can follow the tracks along to a disused tunnel which is now a bat roost. As one of the closest ancient woods to central London, Sydenham Hill Wood is definitely worth a visit if you are feeling drawn to a woodland walk.

Closer to our home you’ll find Dumbleton Hill which we believe is one of the Cotswold’s best kept secrets! Expect dense woodland, deciduous trees and insane panoramic views of the Cotswold's once you’ve reached the top. It’s also worth mentioning that deer are often sighted grazing around the forest, so keep your eyes peeled.

To finish off we have to discuss the New Forest, with too many woodland walks to even think about listing, it’s best just to go and find out for yourselves. This forest is alive with freely grazing ponies and donkeys, wild deer, and an abundance of birds due to the variety of nature reserves, heathland and woodland. If you’re heading there any time soon you might be lucky enough to spot the pigs that are let out in September for Pannage. You’ll also find some beautiful pubs scattered around the forest which make for an ideal place to refuel and enjoy the peace of the forest over a well-earned pint. There is something rather magical about The New Forest; you’ll find a sense of serenity and a real connection with nature amongst those trees.

Hope you manage to get your woodland walk on soon - enjoy!

Why make the extra effort to head to Ireland for a Walking Holiday?

With such beautiful scenery in England and so many walks to do here on our British soil, why would you choose an Irish Walking Holiday? Are there many differences I hear you ask?

Well if you are a National Geographic fan then you’ll certainly be interested to learn that they put Ireland in the top five walking and hiking destinations in the world! Ireland is rich with beautiful scenery of course, but is also steeped in history, mythology and ancient paths to follow and discover. Although a small island the variety of landscape is huge, there’s beach & coastal walks, lush green valleys, bogs, forests, rivers, historic towns and even trails up mountain ranges. The first thing you’ll need to do is decide what sort of Irish Walking Holiday it is that you’re after.

The Irish are such a nation of walkers so you’ll find the trails are always fresh and really well marked but rarely busy, meaning quite often you’ll enjoy breath taking views all by yourselves on your Irish Walking Holiday.

The fact that Ireland is a small island gives it a distinctively different ecology to Britain, there are far fewer species than on the mainland because it is more difficult for animals and plants to colonise. This may not sound like a selling point, but the flipside is that islands in general do tend to have more species that are endemic to them, Ireland included. The Irish whitebeam tree is an example of this, plus four different bird species; the jay, the dipper, the coal tit and the red grouse. There is something so special about seeing endemic species in the wild and knowing that this can’t be done anywhere else on the earth.

At 4000km in length, the coastline of Ireland is actually longer than that of France, which brings with it a great wealth of seagulls and many marine animals including seals, whales and dolphins. Also, because Ireland is the most northerly country in the world it has fresh water that doesn’t freeze over for long in winter time, which is very significant for birds that breed in the Arctic as it offers survival for these birds through the freezing winter months.

You will find the landscape in Ireland very unpolluted, although the population is of course growing it still largely remains within the urban areas meaning the countryside is unspoilt, often uninhabited and beautifully peaceful with its biodiversity still intact.

And if you still need persuading on the benefits of hopping over to Ireland to hike, then look no further than their pubs! With open fires, thatched roofs, home brews and very friendly and welcoming people, the pub lunches will certainly only add pleasure to your Irish Walking Holiday.

Walking Gear - Necessary or Not at All?

Whether you’re a walking seasoned professional or you simply fancy a WALKING HOLIDAY, you’ve probably noticed the amount of walking gear you can buy. The question is do we really need all of this or can we make do with what we already have? Do we need to spend a lot of money or are less expensive products as reliable? First off a waterproof jacket would come highly recommended, and for obvious reasons, in the UK we have a lot of rain even in the summer months and so a waterproof jacket is a no brainer. However prices range vastly with many different features. The key things to look out for are whether it is actually waterproof; what fabric is it made from? How the jacket is constructed, is it a good fit, will hoods stay up and not let rain in? What about zips for pockets and adjustment toggles to keep you really dry? Generally the more you spend the better the fabric and the more the design has been thought through. However some of the less expensive jackets will certainly keep you dry if you aren’t worried about added extras such as a waterproof pocket for maps or a vent to keep you cool.

Definitely next to mention is footwear, your feet are doing a lot of work through all kinds of terrains so footwear is key to comfort and therefore your enjoyment of the walk. There is a huge range in most shops from shoes and boots for different seasons, leather boots, fabric boots and many different soles. Certainly confusing! To begin with its best to match your walking shoes to the season you’ll be walking in and the terrain you’ll be walking on, most will have labels to guide and inform you and make things a little bit easier. It’s good to keep in mind that if you’re on a COTSWOLD WALK or somewhere that it’s likely to be wet then Gore-Tex lining or full leather are great. Wet feet get very uncomfortable and are prone to blister which will really throw a spanner in the works for you. These days there should be no need to wear in walking boots, so make sure you really feel the fit is comfortable when you are purchasing them. You may have a favourite pair of trainers that you’d like to walk in that are super comfortable but it’s actually not advisable. They won’t offer any ankle support which is helpful if you’re negotiating lots of steps or steep trails. They also may not have the appropriate grip which can increase risks of slips and falls and will generally make walking more difficult.

As well as these items there are also walking accessories, these can be helpful but are certainly not essentials. Walking poles can help prevent sore legs and muscle strains but you will find most people walk without these without any problems. Waterproof trousers will keep you more dry and comfortable if it does rain but unless it’s going to be torrential downpours you could certainly walk without.

In conclusion it would seem that having some walking gear is sensible and quite necessary, however you’ll pay more for the details and extras which aren’t always needed but can be seen as more of a luxury. As long as you make sure the key aspects are covered then you needn’t spend a fortune on walking gear. If however you decide you’d like to splash out there will certainly be some great added benefits.

Discount British Walking Holidays

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Get a deeply discounted British and Irish walking holiday by taking advantage of the chance to extend your holiday, on us! Book any one of our walking holidays and we’ll subsidise you an extra night*

Self-Guided Walking Holidays in the UK

Our self-guided walking holidays allow you to be able to dictate your own pace, difficulty, and to really immerse yourself in nature without having to worry about other people or a schedule.  It is a more flexible and unconstrained way to enjoy your holiday whilst still having detailed route notes, accommodations planned and the world's best routes to guide you along the best routes in the UK.

Contact us for free for personalized service and recommendations 

Dog Walking Holidays UK

What could be better than a walking holiday through the beautiful sceneries of the UK? Exploring them with your loyal companion at your side! The dog walking holidays UK are perfect for all dog lovers. If you simply can’t part from your pooch, take him along on an adventure. Firstly, when choosing a holiday it’s important to ensure that the places you will be staying at are dog friendly. Unfortunately, many places do not allow this. Finding a route that has an open-door policy to dogs can be frustrating, however it isn’t impossible. The South West Coastal Path is a popular destination for dog walking holidays UK. The Exmoor Path is ideal for walking with your dog. This easy beginning features beautiful sea-side scenes with both grassy and sandy parts. These give way to the Cornwall area’s dramatic cliffs and coastal sceneries. Both you and your canine friends will enjoy exploring the differing landscapes this part of the UK has to offer.

Another attractive choice for dog walking holidays UK is the Dartmoor National Park. This stunning and panoramic route offers shorter treks which cover the highlights as well as longer walking experiences. In addition to these, several other routes can guarantee accommodation for you and you dogs. Some of these are located near Somerset and Devon, while the Pembrokeshire Coast has also proven to be a great choice for dog walking holidays UK.

Dog Walking Holidays UK - What you need to know

In order to ensure the best possible experience for you and your dog, it is best to contact us in regards to this issue. Having a realistic perspective for your range of choices in terms of accommodation can help you make the best decision in choosing your holiday.

Some holidays will be welcoming to canines all the way through. However, in others there may be gaps. In this case, other arrangements will have to be made for the night in question. Often, this means staying in the same place for two nights, whether it’s the following or previous location. Another thing you will need to consider is the need for extra luggage. Your dog’s food and bedding in addition to your own may require special transfer arrangements.

Arranging dog walking holidays UK can be a demanding task. It requires flexibility and excellent planning, ensuring that none of the places and transport you will be taking have a ‘no dogs’ policy.  Although this type of holiday is more difficult in terms of planning, all things considered it is also a very rewarding experience in and of itself. You won’t need to sacrifice your own enjoyment, taking in all the trails and natural beauty of the UK. In addition, your four-legged friend will be happy and enjoying their extended walk. If you are well-informed and enthusiastic you can make dog walking holidays UK an unforgettable experience for the both of you.

Best Walking Holidays in England, UK, Britain

Taking the time to do something for you should be a priority for each and every one of us. One of the best ways to do this is to take a holiday. Walking holidays offer a unique experience. Exploration, adventure and freedom merge in this type of holiday to deliver the trip of a lifetime. The best walking holidays in England have all of this and more. England is the largest country in the UK. In accordance with this, the choice for the best walking holidays in England is nearly endless. There are many different places to explore, each with a different and stunning landscape. The trails are distinct with varying difficulty and sights to see.

The Best Walking Holidays in England

One of the most popular destinations is Dorset. It is a part of the UK filled with contrasts. Firstly, the peaceful and undisturbed countryside makes for easy walking, and the quaint villages are sure to charm you. This gentleness of scenery is contrasted with the more dramatic coastal terrains.  The magnificent Jurassic Coast is a walk through history. Breathtaking sights await you on one of the best walking holidays in England.

Some of the best wild scenery in England can be found in the Lake District. Its towering mountains, green valleys and many beautiful lakes make this a surefire way to experience what is arguably one of the best walking holidays in England that the country has to offer. Charming and magical, it is also the largest national park in the UK. You will always fondly remember your walk through this region as the amazing sites will surely impress you.

Historic Walking Holidays

Another great choice is the Hadrian’s Wall walk. Also known as the Roman Wall this is an amazing part of history, standing across the English countryside since 122 AD. Walking through the bright greenery alongside this impressive wall is truly unforgettable. This is no doubt one of the best walking holidays in England in terms of letting you experience the rich history the region has to offer.

In addition, there are plenty of walking holidays situated near London. Beginning with Constable Country, the gentle countryside captured in the works of the artist John Constable. It’s easy to see the reason for his inspiration as you walk through the pretty scenery.  In addition, some of the best walking holidays in England are the coastal walks to the Saxon Shore and White Cliffs of Dover.

Next, the Cotswold is also a must-see if you are looking to experience the classic English countryside. It is one of the easiest and easily one of the best walking holidays in England. This region is distinguished through its rolling hills and peaceful atmosphere. Afterward, visit one the many picturesque limestone villages this walk is dotted with.

All things considered, no matter which destination you choose, your holiday to England is sure to be unforgettable. Above all, these and many more of the best walking holidays in England are life-changing experiences. Allow yourself the time and freedom to travel and explore the natural beauty that this country offers.

Best Walking Breaks in UK

If you want to take part in the amazing experience a self-guided walking holiday offers, yet you are short on time, don’t worry. Aside from our walking holidays we also offer walking breaks in UK, tailored to suit a busy schedule.  They can be done on weekends or even during the week. Also, if one of our longer holidays has caught your eye, it can be turned in to a walking break custom-made to suit your needs. As a matter of fact, finding a suitable walking break in the UK is super easy.

Walking Breaks in the UK – England

Dorset is a welcoming and delightful destination for a walking breaks in UK. The country of contrasts will fill your break with wonder and peaceful walking. At the same time, your break will take you through some of the most beautiful and unspoiled countryside. You will stroll through the rural scenery which inspired the likes of Thomas Hardy.

In addition, this rural and idyllic county has charming villages and some of the best coastal terrains. The relaxing walking break through this gentle, beautiful terrain will leave no doubt as to whether you made the right choice.

Walking Breaks in the UK – Wales

When visiting North Wales, the Lleyn Peninsula is the place to go. Its dramatic landscape is made up of mountains which sharply drop off into the sea. Their imposing presence is diffused by the many large bays and coves. Additionally, you will have the chance to visit the famous beach known as the Whistling Sands and explore the delightful views this destination offers.

One of the best walking breaks in the UK, it offers additionally offers the chance to visit Bardsey Island. Those with an appetite for the mystical and legends of old will relish the chance to explore the island. At one time, the island was a place of pilgrimage, rooted deep in the legends of King Arthur. Aside from its natural beauty and wildlife, this island is said to be the burial place for the wizard Merlin.

Walking Breaks in the UK – Scotland

One of the shortest, easiest and most beautiful walking breaks in the UK is the Rob Roy. Named for the highland legend this route follows his footsteps through the Scottish Highlands. Your trek also visits the quaint village in which he is buried. This walking break begins only an hour away from Edinburgh and Glasgow, in Callander. This bustling and harming town is known as the gateway to the highlands to which you will continue. The Scottish lochs, mountains and swift rivers make up the beautiful scenery typical for the gorgeous highlands.

Whatever your location or preference, our walking breaks in UK are intended to fit even the busiest lives. Take a few days break from the hustle of everyday life to explore these and many more destinations through the UK. Ultimately, this type of holiday is truly inspiring and the breath of fresh air we all need.

Discover The Best British Walking Tour Holiday Company in the UK

So you’ve decided you want to book a walking holiday in the UK? That's fantastic news! The next step is choosing which of the British walking tour companies to choose from - which will help plan and guide your walking holiday whether it be in England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland or Ireland?

There's plenty of British walking tour holidays and companies to choose from, so which will get your vote?

There are so many walking tour companies in the UK, each offering a different level of expertise and experience for your holiday to the UK & Ireland. To help you narrow it down a little, we have highlighted a few of our favourites. With a wide and differing range of services and areas of the British Isles & Ireland catered for by the various walking tour holiday companies, we hope this helps you as you plan your perfect walking holiday.

British & Irish Walking Holidays

That's us!  We are a British walking holiday company based in the UK and we cater to travellers who want to enjoy self-guided walking holidays and appreciate that we offer the best walking tours and always strive to get the best rates for them. With 25+ years experience, and intimate knowledge of the tours we offer, our walks have been proven and perfected. We've tried and tested the hotels and B&Bs along the routes and we value ourselves on great communication with you and our partners around the British Isles & Ireland.

But don't take our word for it!  Check out what our customers have to say and get in touch for pricing and holidays. Please email us at info@britishandirishwalks.com call us on +44 (0)1242 254353, or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter for our latest news and offers!

Cotswold Journeys

If you're looking for a walking holiday in the Cotswolds, then undoubtedly Cotswold Journeys is the quintessential and original Cotswold walking holiday company.  They provide bespoke Cotswolds walking vacations and holidays for travelers from around the world!  Personalized routes and tours are tailor-made to each individual's preferences. Always flexible and accommodating to personal wishes and changes, you’ll be sure to get exactly the kind of walking holiday you want!

This bespoke Cotswold walking holiday company also focuses on the best in terms of accommodation, offering luxury itineraries that, accordingly will have you staying in 4 or 5 star hotels, country houses and even castles! Their routes are created with the intention of exploring the hidden beauty in your destination. Regardless of whether it’s a day trip or a week-long holiday you can expect only the best from this British walking tour company.

World Walks

No matter your age, ability or experience with walking holidays, World Walks can help you! They are world-renowned as one of the best British walking holiday companies, offering the largest range of walking holidays in the UK, Europe and the rest of the world. Their team has over 20 years of experience, with many different areas of expertise. This helps them offer the best walking holidays and they enjoy an advantageous reputation in this regard. They will accommodate your needs in any of the possible destinations spanning across the UK and the world.

Luxury Walking Holidays in the UK

Taking a luxury walking holiday in the UK can be an amazing experience.  Choose your destination and embark on the perfect self-guided holiday experience. You won’t have to worry about anything except enjoying your luxury walking experience. We will organize everything else. Aside from the national trails, we offer interesting and independent luxury walking holidays UK in each region. Firstly, the accommodation we offer is comprised of hotels and guesthouses.  Although the towns also offer a wide variety of dining experiences, breakfast and dinner are included in out half-board arrangements. You will enjoy your luxury walking holiday comfortably thanks to daily luggage transfers. Your bags will be waiting for you at the next hotel, offering a fresh change of clothes and none of the hassle of carrying it yourself. Since they are self-guided, maps and route instructions will also be provided for your convenience.

Luxury walking holidays in England

England is the largest country in the UK, with plenty of options for luxury walking holidays. The landscape is mostly of low, rolling hills and plains.

However, the uplands of the mountainous Lake District and uplands in the Cotswold can offer a change of pace. The Cotswold hills rise from the upper Thames and are host to a number of picturesque villages. The village-to-village walks through the gorgeous countryside will make for an unforgettable luxury walking holiday. The Lake District is also a stunning choice for a luxury walking holiday. The lakes and mountains make up some of the best wild scenery in England.

Next, the trails located in Cornwall are some of the most dramatic and scenic luxury walking holidays UK. The Southwest Coastal path and the Lizard Peninsula are also sure to make a lasting impression on all travelers.

Luxury walking holidays UK near London

Whether you are a Londoner yourself or a tourist and don’t want to depart too much from the country’s capital, there are plenty of luxury walking holiday available to you.  These include the renowned Constable Country.  The gentle countryside will inspire you. In addition, some of the best coastal walks are available to you near London in the luxury walking holidays to the Saxon Shore and White Cliffs of Dover. Another terrific option is a trip to the historic Canterbury.

Ultimately, since our holidays are self-guided, you are the creator of your own luxury holiday. Explore at your own pace and take in the breathtaking views, while we take care of everything else. Our team has over 20 years of experience and as a result are experts at providing the best luxury walking holidays in the UK.

9 Great British Walking Holidays

Walking holidays are a great idea for any traveler with a spirit of adventure. Do you seek to experience the freedom of making your own way, and discover the beauty of the land off the beaten path? If so, you should definitely consider booking a walking holiday. The best British walking holidays offer you the flexibility to create your experience, taking it as slowly or as fast as you like. The purpose is to simply enjoy your surroundings. There is a multitude of choices available; the walks vary in length and difficulty. It is important to choose the best one according to your desires whether it is a self-guided walk or part of a tour.

Here are a few great British walking holidays:

1. The Jurassic Coast – Dorset

The Jurassic Coast offers a myriad of stunning landscapes with its dramatic cliffs and long beaches. They are guaranteed to take your breath away.

2. Lake District Walks

England’s Lake District provides the perfect romantic background for a walking holiday. The gentle rolling hills and lakes are sure to leave you inspired.

3. Cotswolds Walks

This is one of the easiest terrains for walking, ideal for beginners. The grasslands, hills and quaint villages make up the scenery of this central part of England.

4. Stonehenge

Perhaps Britain’s most famous landmark, avoid the tourist crowds by instead booking a country walk. Exploring the Stonehenge and Salisbury area at your own pace is worth it.

5. Constable Country

Named after the artist who drew inspiration from this area’s wide open meadows and skies, Essex’s Constable Country is a must for any walking holiday.

6. Hadrian’s Wall

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hadrian’s Wall spans the northern English countryside, across a green and relaxing terrain make for a very leisurely holiday.

7. Loch Ness

Made famous by Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster this area of Scotland is perfect for the traveler who seeks a bit of mystery.

8. The Isle of Skye

This island is made of secluded beaches and cliff-tops, and a walking holiday along its imposing coastline and deserted villages will surely be an unforgettable experience.

9. North Wales

North Wales has an idyllic terrain and views that will have you walking for hours in admiration. Exploring the grasslands and valleys is an immensely satisfying experience.

If this holiday season you are looking for something different, if you are tired of the same old, rushed tourist tours a great British walking holiday is the perfect choice for you. Choose your destination, lace up your hiking boots and explore the best the UK has to offer.

Making Walking Appeal to Kids This Summer Holiday

Walking can benefit children as well as adults. It is a gentle activity that can help them get the exercise they need in a fun way. However, with all the attractions of modern day technology, it can be difficult to entice children outside. In light of this we thought we would look at ways in which you can help to make walking much more fun and appealing to younger members of the family.

-Instead of saying ‘let’s go for a walk’, ask your children if they want to go on an ‘adventure’ or ‘expedition’. This makes it sound a lot more exciting.

-Research routes as a family. Go back to basics and get out several maps as they will be a bit of a novelty to children & teenagers who are used to having everything at the click of a button.

-Ask kids to pack their own ‘adventure back-pack’ the night before. This could include their lunch, a drink, a favourite toy, paper to draw pictures of the views and any spare clothing that might be required.

-Remember that during walks your children will probably get dirty – and love it! Dress them in old clothes and shoes which you don’t mind being worn to stamp through puddles or clamber over tree trunks. Fussing over keeping clean could cause a negative association with walking.

-Plan regular breaks to rest tired legs and try to incorporate some interesting attractions into your walk to break it up. This could be a visit to a castle, a boat ride or a stop at an ice-cream van.

-Play games along the way to help stop them getting bored. Eye spy is always a winner as is hide and seek (with the correct supervision). If you come to a stream or river with a bridge then you could have a game of pooh sticks (seeing whose stick can float fastest over a certain distance).

-You could make the walk into a bit of a scavenger hunt and arm your children with a list of items to collect as they go along; a green lead, a twig, a yellow flower and so on.

-Commit to walking at your child's pace and try not to get frustrated when they want to stop every few minutes to look at a stone or funny shaped twig.

-Ensure that they get exercise in between walks so that the momentum is maintained. This could be a walk around your local neighbourhood, a trip to the swimming baths or a few hours running around an adventure play area.

-Finally, make sure you take lots of pictures. Get some printed out and stick them into a 'diary'. Ask your children to write about their favourite parts of the walk in the diary. This will make a great keepsake.

A Walk in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland – that part of the island of Ireland that is part of the United Kingdom and which is composed of six of the nine counties of the historic province of Ulster – is small but very beautiful. I spent a few days in one small part - the County Antrim coastline – yet found as much there as one might find anywhere. A short flight to Belfast City airport; then a hire car out towards Portrush, a very straightforward journey that avoids the city centre and gets me there in an hour. I may be lucky, but I get the best weather in the whole country; and beneath the mainly blue sky the sea is aquamarine, clear and clean. The beach, the Curran Strand, is long and sandy and in the distance are the cliffs beyond which lie the Giant's Causeway.

Since I was there not just to see the country but also to walk in it, I decided to have a look at the Causeway, which I might otherwise have ignored as a tourist trap. What turned out to be the best things about it was not so much the well-known stone hexagons, impressive though they are, but the dramatic countryside that rears up above it – high cliffs that sweep around the coast in a series of enormous amphitheatres, reminiscent of Chinese paintings where the scenes are exaggerated to convey a sene of majesty and grandeur. Except here there was no need for exaggeration. On the way back to Portrush, by chance, I followed a sign to a harbour that turned out to be the very charming Ballintoy, which apparently has featured in the television series 'Game of Thrones'.

Further west, towards Stroke City (Derry/Londonderry, which, with its complete city walls is well worth a visit), are a series of sloping hills clad in conifer forest that rise to a sheer escarpment overlooking Lough Foyle and beyond it to Donegal in the Republic. From a small lake at the top it is but a few steps to the cliff edge and then a good, easy walk along its edge for just about as far as you want. Much of the route forms part of the Ulster Way, the long distance trail that follows the contours of the whole of Northern Ireland.

Back towards the east, I rejoined the Causeway route, which takes you past Downhill, with its ruined great house and temple now precariously tipped at the cliff edge; and Dunluce Castle, a romantic ruin if ever there was one.

That was all I had time for – next time it will be Mountains of Mourne. I strongly recommend a walk in Northern Ireland: the scenery is fabulous, the people warm and welcoming.