Walking

The ultimate outdoor activity – you can walk almost anywhere at any time, discover new places and keep fit.

Read more
Paddington statue with kids

PADDINGTON’S NEXT ADVENTURE: MAKE YOUR TOWN HIS HOME

December 12, 2024
2 min read

Paddington's next big adventure! Find out how to get a Paddington Statue in your home town!

Read more
join a group

The Benefits of Joining a Group

December 10, 2024
6 min read

Need Motivation to Get Outside? Find out all the amazing benefits of joining a group to help motivate you to get outside more!

Read more
festive walk ideas - tamsin travis lakedistrict with kids in santa hats

Christmas Walk Ideas & Inspiration!

December 10, 2024
9 min read

Christmas Walk Inspiration! Where will you go on your traditional Christmas or Boxing Day walk this year? We have 12 great ideas and 1000's more on our OS Maps App to try!

Read more
running under an underpass in the dark with friends

No Excuses: Practical TIPS for Exercising in Winter

December 3, 2024
7 min read

Are you full of excuses when it comes to getting outside in winter? Read our list of top winter exercising tips to keep safe and get energised this winter

Read more
waterfall walks north wales

Exploring Waterfalls with the Suunto Race S

November 26, 2024
5 min read

Lisa explores a beautiful waterfall route in North Wales while reviewing the new Suunto Race S GPS watch.

Read more
aspire 2 inspire communities - practicing for lowland leader award

Holme Chapel Loop – A Rochdale Adventure

November 24, 2024
4 min read

Holme Chapel Loop: OS Champion Beth Craigen teamed up with Aspire 2 Inspire Communities for some essential navigation practice so they can help even more people to get outside.

Read more
Person walking in snow in the Cairngorm

Walking in Snow

November 21, 2024
1 min read

With cold weather expected to hit Britain over the next few days, here's a quick guide to walking in snow from hiker, snowboarder and OS GetOutside Champion Jonathan Elder.

Read more
Felicity Martin Outstanding Walks in Scotland - felicity and a tree

Capturing Nature: Felicity Martin on Hiking, Photography and choosing a quieter life

November 6, 2024
10 min read

Felicity Martin, the author of Outstanding Walks in Scotland shares her hiking and photography tips and tells us about her new quieter life

Read more

Five Firework Free Dark-Sky Locations for a Serene Bonfire Night

November 4, 2024
5 min read

This guide explores top stargazing spots, and how to find them with OS Maps, where the beauty of the night sky becomes the highlight

Read more
lightweight headtorch review silva smini

OS Test The Best Lightweight Head Torch – Silva Smini & Smini Fly

October 30, 2024
24 min read

Our intrepid OS Champions review the NEW Smini Headtorch and Smini Fly Headtorch - take a look at their in depth reviews

Read more
Suunto Race S Review Lake District Molly Veitch

Hiking in the Lake District with the NEW Suunto Race S

October 28, 2024
5 min read

First time user of a GPS watch Molly Veitch reviews this popular new performance watch on her latest hike up Coniston Old Man

Read more

Horror Film Locations in the UK

October 23, 2024
8 min read

UK Horror Film Locations: With Halloween around the corner, why not explore some routes passing real-life locations from iconic horror films using Ordnance Survey’s OS Maps?

Read more
Conwy Circular Walks

Conwy Circular Paths from the Wales Coast Path

October 23, 2024
8 min read

Conwy Circular Routes - Along this stretch of the Wales Coast Path, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the smallest church in Wales, marvel at the World Heritage Site of Conwy Castle.

Read more

Denbighshire Circular Walks on the Wales Coast Path

October 22, 2024
6 min read

Denbighshire Circular Routes from the Wales Coast Path. Denbighshire may be the shortest section of the path but these circulars are packed with interest

Read more
Glyndwr's Way National Trail Short Machynlleth Circuit aerial view

Glyndwr’s Way Circular Walks

October 22, 2024
3 min read

Glyndŵr’s Way is a 135-mile (217 km) long National Trail that meanders through the stunning landscapes of mid-Wales. From historic towns and open moorland to rolling farmland and enchanting woodlands, this trail is perfect for all nature lovers.

Read more
Offas Dyke - Prestatyn Hillside

Circular Routes from the Offa’s Dyke Path by Rail

October 11, 2024
4 min read

Rail2Trail: Offa's Dyke Circular Walking Routes Accessible by Rail - we have a collection of 7 great short circular walks from Chepstow to Prestatyn!

Read more
planningroutes_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

Planning a walking route in 5 easy steps

September 30, 2024
12 min read

The Best Walking Route Planner and Guide to planning your own walking route Jonathan from the OS Team outlines how you can get started and find new walking routes with the help of a walking route planner.

Read more

Malham Circular – A Day in’t Dales with the Suunto Race S

September 10, 2024
3 min read

Malham Circular Walk - OS Champion Megan Rose has a day in the Yorkshire Dales testing out her brand new Suunto Race S GPS Watch

Read more

Upcycling Old Maps – DIY BAG with FREE TEMPLATE!

September 9, 2024
4 min read

Upcycling Old Maps: Watch Lou Collins transform an old Ordnance Survey Map into a stylish personalised bag, ideal as a gift for a loved one

Read more
isle of wight

Isle of Wight Coastal Walks: Our Top Picks in partnership with Wightlink

September 2, 2024
4 min read

Isle of Wight coastal walks. We share the route for the 70 mile coastal walk around the Isle of Wight and some great short Isle of Wight Walks

Read more
self-guided-walks-uk-holidays-dartmoor-hero.2459c66550e35ba20830f8037c980982

Best self-guided day walks for holidays in the UK

August 14, 2024
10 min read

The YHA showcase 10 of the best self-guided walks from YHA Hostels, perfect for holidays in the UK. Each circular walk makes a great day out.

Read more

Stunning Sunrise Views in Yorkshire

August 1, 2024
5 min read

Yorkshire's best sunrise views and dawn adventures, recommended by Ordnance Survey and Taylors of Harrogate.

Read more
Hiking Poles LEKI_Trekking_2023_©Adam Raja_11

Hiking Poles Guide – Everything you need to know about choosing the right walking poles!

July 9, 2024
9 min read

Hiking Poles - a complete guide to hiking poles including a look at all the main features and how to use hiking poles when walking

Read more
hiking_checklist_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

Hiking Checklist

July 8, 2024
2 min read

There's a fine line between having the right equipment to keep you safe and comfortable on a walk and being so weighed down with unnecessary kit you'll struggle. Our hiking checklist will help you get kitted out with essential gear for a long day on the trail and tell you what to take on a walk.

Read more
ordnance survey staff tips for navigating glastonbury festival

Walking Around Glastonbury Festival – top tips from our team!

June 25, 2024
9 min read

Walking Around Glastonbury Festival - Top tips from our team on navigating your way around Glasto!

Read more

How Can Festivals Be More Sustainable?

June 20, 2024
5 min read

How can festivals be more sustainable? Take a look at 5 festivals that are taking sustainability seriously

Read more
summer-mountain-safety-hero2.2459c66550e35ba20830f8037c980982

Mountain Safety in the Summer

June 17, 2024
10 min read

Mountain Safety: Ordnance Survey, Mountain Rescue England and Wales and the Met Office join forces to offer some great advice on summer safety in the mountains.

Read more
walks-inspired-by-books-thumb.197d91cf8229fef73a26e74f68b4a8b8

Wander through words: amazing walks inspired by Britain’s favourite books, authors and characters

January 19, 2024
6 min read

Explore enchanting literary walks in Britain, from the Brontë Sisters' Haworth in West Yorkshire to J.K. Rowling's Edinburgh. Hear the stories behind Britain’s favourite books and authors and recommended routes combining literature with breath-taking landscapes.

Read more
ben-nevis-routes-to-the-top.2459c66550e35ba20830f8037c980982

Ben Nevis Summit: Discover the best walking routes to the top

January 4, 2024
5 min read

Unlock the secrets of Ben Nevis with our comprehensive guide to the best walking routes to the top. Discover breathtaking paths, where to park, and essential information about facilities, terrain and difficulty.

Read more
christmas-walk-hero.2459c66550e35ba20830f8037c980982

Best Christmas walks

December 15, 2023
13 min read

Christmas and New Year offer so many reasons to put on your walking boots and head out into the great outdoors. Whether it’s to breathe in the refreshing winter air or to walk off your Christmas dinner, there’s nothing like a festive stroll. To help you find one near you, here are some of our most popular.

Read more
A pub next to the river.

10 best pub walks in Great Britain

December 1, 2023
9 min read

There’s nothing better than incorporating a stop at a nearby pub when out on a walk with friends and family. Reward yourself with a refreshing drink or warm up in front of the fire. Here are 10 of the best pub walks across Great Britain.

Read more
Two walkers on a hill on an autumn day

Autumn Walking Guide

October 26, 2023
7 min read

As we get into autumn the clothing and equipment you need for walking and hiking changes too. Here's a guide handy guide on autumn walking gear

Read more
13-valleys-ultra-hero2.2459c66550e35ba20830f8037c980982

13 Valleys Ultra

October 17, 2023
14 min read

The 13 Valleys Ultra takes in an unmissable route spanning all 13 valleys of the Lake District National Park. Discover this challenging route which can be enjoyed all year round or in smaller sections for a leisurely walk.

Read more
walks-all-weathers-hero2.2459c66550e35ba20830f8037c980982

Walks for all types of weather

September 21, 2023
12 min read

The Met Office team share their favourite walking and running routes across the UK and tells us how they differ across the seasons. Find walks for different weather conditions from the weather experts.

Read more
ramblers-wellbeing-walks-hero.2459c66550e35ba20830f8037c980982

Ramblers wellbeing walks

August 30, 2023
5 min read

Discover Ramblers Wellbeing Walks; over 50,000 walks taking place all over the country to help improve the nations health and happiness. Here are some of the best Wellbeing Walks for you to join or try in your own time.

Read more
ramblers-out-there-awards-scotland-hero.2459c66550e35ba20830f8037c980982

Learning to navigate with the Out There Award

August 21, 2023
5 min read

Learn how the Ramblers is kickstarting young people’s journeys into the outdoors with their Out There Award and find out how to get involved.

Read more
ramsay_round_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

Ramsay Round

August 10, 2023
8 min read

The Ramsay Round is an iconic Scottish sub-24-hour mountain challenge, but it can also be enjoyed in sections at a more leisurely pace. We take a look at the route in more detail and speak to Sabrina Pace Humphreys, Co-founder and Trustee of Black Trail Runners. Sabrina tells us about her experience of the route and why she’s on her own mission to highlight that the outdoors is for everyone.

Read more
OS Pathfinder Guides

10 outstanding circular walks

May 26, 2023
10 min read

Discover Britain’s 10 best circular walks for a great day out. Featured in the OS Pathfinder Guides, each walk provides key information like where to park, where to eat and what to see on route.

Read more
ramblers-walks-hero.2459c66550e35ba20830f8037c980982

Ramblers walks: top routes across Britain

May 22, 2023
8 min read

Our friends at the Ramblers share their favourite walks from The Ramblers Handbook. With routes for every season, these leisurely day walks will guide you around Britain through picturesque locations to soak up stunning scenery as you go.

Read more
the ridgeway map

The Ridgeway

May 5, 2023
6 min read

The Ridgeway National Trail is a historic footpath that stretches for 87 miles (139km) across southern England, from the World Heritage Site of Avebury in Wiltshire to the ancient hill fort of Ivinghoe Beacon in Buckinghamshire. Discover our favourite historic spots along the route, plus key information to help you walk it.

Read more
tracyp_beaconsway_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

The Beacons Way

April 24, 2023
5 min read

The Beacons Way is a 100-mile-long distance footpath, that transverses through the centre of the Brecon Beacons National Park in South Wales. OS Champion Tracy Purnell takes us on a whistle-stop tour of the top spots along the way.

Read more
best-short-walks-hero.2459c66550e35ba20830f8037c980982

10 best short walks across Britain

April 13, 2023
12 min read

Discover Britain’s 10 best short walks for a great day out. Featured in the OS Short Walks Made Easy guidebooks, each walk provides key information like where to park, where to eat and what to see on route.

Read more
walking-books-guides-hero.2459c66550e35ba20830f8037c980982

Walking books – Which guide is best for me?

April 13, 2023
7 min read

The OS Pathfinder Guides and OS Short Walks Made Easy series capture some of the best walking routes across Great Britain and include a range of useful information to make it easier to plan your walks. We take a look at these two guidebooks in more detail to help you decide which one is best for you.

Read more
hill-walking-safety-beginners-hero.2459c66550e35ba20830f8037c980982

Hill walking safety for beginners

March 27, 2023
7 min read

OS Champion Phillipa Cherryson spends a day with the Brecon Mountain Rescue Team for some pointers on hill walking safety for beginners.

Read more
view-from-top-of-snowdon.72ce86ea891b3dec58299284fa5b7ba2

Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa): Routes to the top

March 23, 2023
7 min read

There are many routes to the top of Snowdon (in Welsh 'Yr Wyddfa') with some big paths that can get crowded and some lesser-trodden trails. Here's all you need to know about the routes up Snowdon.

Read more
Mountain Rescue Volunteers

Advice from Mountain Rescue

March 21, 2023
5 min read

Mountain Rescue England and Wales share their expert advice to help you stay safe outdoors. Find out how to plan ahead, stay safe on the hills and how to call Mountain Rescue in an emergency.

Read more
woodland-walks-hero.2459c66550e35ba20830f8037c980982

Best woodland walks

March 17, 2023
5 min read

From family-friendly forest parks to less-trodden ancient woodlands, here are the best woodland walks in the UK which are not to be missed.

Read more
Beautiful Lake District scenery 

Bob Graham Round

March 13, 2023
7 min read

The Bob Graham Round is an iconic sub-24-hour fell challenge which traverses much of the Lake District. OS Champion Alex Staniforth shares his experience of the Round and why this epic Lakeland route makes such a memorable run or walk.

Read more
swcpbanner-2.f509f35fc38bc25adc361e0ae7a45bf3

South West Coast Path: 10 of the best spots

March 8, 2023
6 min read

The South West Coast Path stretches from Minehead in Somerset to Poole Harbour in Dorset. Surging around the south coast, England’s longest National Trail is an awesome place in which to GetOutside. Here are 10 great spots to visit.

Read more
emilyt_walk_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

Planning a long distance walk

November 3, 2022
7 min read

There’s nothing more exciting than heading out the door on an adventure, especially walking a long-distance path. Here's everything you need to know to walk one of Britain's National or Regional trails or, plan your own multi-day route.

Read more
Loughrigg Fell, Lake District

Best autumn walks in the Lake District

October 27, 2022
9 min read

Autumn in the Lake District is a feast for the eyes. An array of reds, yellows and oranges span the horizon and cover the ground. Here are some of the best autumn walks to be enjoyed in the Lake District this season.

Read more
northumberland_coast_path_hero1.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

Northumberland Coast Path

October 10, 2022
8 min read

The Northumberland Coast Path offers some stunning coastal walking. The 62-mile (100km) waymarked route is the best way to experience this beautiful, varied landscape. Broken down into stages, here’s everything you need to know in order to walk the path.

Read more
Ten Tors Challenge

The Ten Tors Challenge

October 10, 2022
4 min read

The Ten Tors Challenge is an annual challenge organised by the British Army for young people to navigate the wilds of Dartmoor. It's a multi-day adventure that tests stamina, navigation and mental toughness - for both the participants and the volunteer. We speak to OS Champion Fi Darby about her experience.

Read more
The Cambrian Way

Walking the Cambrian Way

August 16, 2022
8 min read

The Cambrian Way is a 298-mile walk from south to north Wales (Cardiff and Conwy), coast to coast, through incredible upland and mountain scenery. Tackle it in one go or break it down into sections, find out all you need to know about walking the Cambrian Way in this comprehensive guide.

Read more
nc500_best_walks_hero2.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

10 best NC500 walks

August 15, 2022
8 min read

The Northern Highlands of Scotland are home to the most remote and dramatic landscapes in Britain and there is one epic route which encapsulates it all, the North Coast 500 (NC500). Popular with both drivers and cycle tourists, we break this iconic journey up into sections and share our 10 best NC500 walks along the route for you to enjoy.

Read more
walk_and_swim_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

5 of the best places to walk and swim

July 29, 2022
4 min read

​​​What could be better than walking to your favourite wild swimming spot, taking a refreshing dip and drying off on your walk back. This new fitness craze will see you exploring new places while staying fit and healthy throughout the summer. Here are some of our favourite wild swim walks.

Read more
leave_the_car_at_home_hero.2b125a5e49d392e4fef6356d16742782

Leave the car at home

June 13, 2022
10 min read

By walking or cycling instead, you'll see a positive impact on your health and happiness, the environment and your wallet. Find out how you can swap shorter car journeys for active travel and make a real difference.

Read more
lifesystems_safety_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

Safety tips for walking outside

May 31, 2022
10 min read

Our friends at Lifesystems share expert advice on how to stay safe in the outdoors. Here is everything you need to know about safety when walking in the outdoors and how you can better prepare yourself for your next adventure.

Read more
stile_free_accessible_walks_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

Best stile-free walks in Britain

May 25, 2022
14 min read

We asked our friends at Access TOG and Access The Dales to share their favourite stile-free walks. Whether you're a wheelchair user, a family with a buggy or recovering from an injury, these accessible routes make it easier to enjoy the great outdoors. Here are the best stile-free walks in Britain.

Read more
walk_to_school_week_hero2.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

Walk to School Week

May 13, 2022
3 min read

For whatever reason, we have got into the habit of driving our kids to school, even if it is only half a mile away. OS Champion Glyn Dodwell gives us 10 great reasons why we should walk them to school instead. Celebrate Walk to School Week and challenge yourself to leave the car at home.

Read more
short walk friends 

Short walks in Hampshire

May 10, 2022
12 min read

Squeezing a short walk into our busy lives can seem like an impossible task but with a little planning, it’s more than doable. Here are five tips to help you incorporate a peaceful stroll into your day plus our favourite short walks in Hampshire for you to enjoy too.

Read more
Seal swimming off St Martin’s, Scilly Isles

25 island adventures in Britain for families

May 5, 2022
20 min read

Having explored over 600 islands in Britain, Lisa Drewe shares some of her top family-friendly island adventures in Britain, plus recommended walking routes. Whether you are a hiker, sand-castle maker, beach lover, wildlife watcher or just have a curious mind, these family-friendly adventures will help make a great tip.

Read more
guide_to_hill_mountains_uk_ireland_hero2.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

A guide to hills and mountains in the UK and Ireland

April 20, 2022
10 min read

Do you know your Munros from your Corbetts? The Adventure Patch Company tell us about hill bagging and explain some of the better and lesser known hills and mountain classifications in the UK and Ireland.

Read more
popularroutes_osmaps_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

Most popular walking routes in OS Maps

April 13, 2022
13 min read

OS Maps users have been busy over the last six months, following thousands of routes and saving their favourites. To help inspire your next adventure, we’re sharing the top 10 most popular walking route. All these routes are Trusted Routes, so they’ve been tried and tested by our partner experts up and down the nation, guaranteeing a great walk.

Read more
best_dog_walks_header2.dfb116b24fe1749d7b8d7d2da6a64dab

10 best dog walks

April 8, 2022
12 min read

Walking your dog on the same path each day can get boring, so why not mix things up and plot new routes to enjoy with your four-legged friend. We’ve found some of the best places to walk your dog and picked 10 best dog-friendly routes, tried and tested by our OS Champions and their canine companions.

Read more
alexm_hikingspotslondoners_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

8 of the best spring hiking escapes for Londoners

April 8, 2022
10 min read

OS Champion Alex Middleton shows us how accessible outdoor spaces are from London. Here's 8 of his favourite spots for hiking near London which are all within 90 minutes from the capital city. All these routes make a great spring walk.

Read more
bluebell_walks_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

10 best bluebell walks

March 25, 2022
11 min read

There’s no denying that spring is one of the best times to get out and about. Bluebells (Hyacinthoides non-scripta) are one of the most iconic spring flowers and you can usually find them in April and May. We’ve rounded up some of the best short bluebell walks across Britain where you’re guaranteed to find these beautiful lilac flowers.

Read more
london_dog_parks_hero3.dfb116b24fe1749d7b8d7d2da6a64dab

London’s best parks for dog walking

February 22, 2022
5 min read

If you want to walk your dog in London and feel like your options are limited due to it being a huge city, you couldn’t be more wrong! We take a look at some of the best parks for dog walking in London and where they are on the map.

Read more
urban_hills_banner8.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

Top urban hills that are worth the climb

February 22, 2022
6 min read

Hills make a great place to walk. You'll benefit from an excellent workout and when you reach the top, will be rewarded with some great views. Here are our top urban hills that are worth the climb. Find hills near you.

Read more
muddy-walks-banner.b9af48b8eb46879652f0d492548a9f9a

Walking in Mud

February 22, 2022
9 min read

It's that time of year when many of your favourite paths can turn into a quagmire. Here are some on how to deal with walking in mud and how to plan a walking route that may avoid it.

Read more
Couple overlooking Edinburgh on Arthur's Seat

Top 20 romantic walks

February 8, 2022
12 min read

Whether you're madly in love or a happy singleton, you can plan a romantic walk with a beloved partner, family or four-legged friend at any time of year - a must on Valentine's Day! Discover the best romantic walks across Great Britain and find one near you near you.

Read more
Duke of Edinburgh Award 

Why do your Duke of Edinburgh’s Award?

February 4, 2022
5 min read

Lucy Atkins of Two Blondes Walking is the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Manager at Trinity School, Teignmouth and explains why doing your DofE is a great idea and what it involves.

Read more
Thames Path Sign

All about the Thames Path

January 5, 2022
6 min read

Ordnance Survey's guide to the Thames Path, one of Britain's National Trails running for 184 miles along the banks of the River Thames. Discover everything you need to know about the Thames Path including maps and information on the Thames Path extension.

Read more
walk_1000_miles_hero3.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

Walk 1000 miles with OS Maps

December 21, 2021
5 min read

Take on the challenge of walking 1000 miles this year. Find out how to get started, discover new walks and record your progress with OS Maps. We also share our top tips to help you stay motivated throughout the year.

Read more
what_to_wear_walking_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

What to wear walking

December 15, 2021
2 min read

You can wear almost anything out walking but having the correct clothes and shoes will keep you comfortable, warm and dry. Here's a checklist of essential hiking clothes to answer that all important question

Read more
dream-hike-banner2.2459c66550e35ba20830f8037c980982

Best British long-distance walks

December 13, 2021
8 min read

If there’s one thing Britain excels in, it’s long-distance walks. We’ve taken some of the best lesser-known routes from the book, Epic British Walks, to help you plan the hike of your dreams. Find route information and suggestions for day trips.

Read more
cairngorms20hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

5 of the best walks in the Cairngorms

November 11, 2021
5 min read

There is nowhere like the Cairngorms National Park. It's the UK’s largest with its ancient Caledonian Pine Forest, famous mountains and hidden hills. There are plenty of fantastic walks for you to discover. Here are five of the best.

Read more
loch20lomand20hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

10 best hill walks in Loch Lomond & Trossachs National Park

November 11, 2021
5 min read

Loch Lomond and the Trossachs has a staggering 41 mountains over 2000 ft to climb. Kate Hopper gives us 10 of her favourite hill walks in the area.

Read more
Snuff Mills Waterfall Bristol

10 best waterfall walks

October 22, 2021
9 min read

Waterfalls are a great place to visit for a leisurely stroll and we're lucky enough to have many across Great Britain. Find waterfall walks near you including details of each route. Our OS GeOutside Champions share with us 10 of their favourites.

Read more
secret_summits_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

Britain’s secret summits

October 22, 2021
5 min read

We take a look at Britain's secret summits where you can escape the crowds and enjoy some of the best hill walks around. Our friends at Keela recommend their favourite routes to help you reach the top.

Read more
Waterfall 

7 top tips for getting outside in the rain

October 1, 2021
5 min read

When it's damp and dreary outside there's still so much fun to be had! Here are 7 top tips for enjoying the outdoors when the weather's not playing ball. Pull on your wellies, put on your waterproofs and get outside in the rain!

Read more
bestislands_hero323.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

10 best British islands

August 6, 2021
8 min read

Author and OS GetOutside Champion Lisa Drewe shares her 10 best British islands to walk around, taken from her book Islandeering.

Read more
bothywalks_hero3.dfb116b24fe1749d7b8d7d2da6a64dab

10 best bothy walks

July 22, 2021
23 min read

Author and outdoor guide, Geoff Allan shares his 10 best adventures from his book Scottish Bothy Walks.

Read more
np_seanc_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

Exploring Britain’s National Parks

June 2, 2021
12 min read

OS GetOutside Champion Sean Conway runs a marathon in all 15 National Parks to highlight how incredible Great Britain is. We caught up with him to find out more about his challenge and discover what makes each National Park so special.

Read more
sensory_walks_1000x600_hero.dfb116b24fe1749d7b8d7d2da6a64dab

Sensory walks

April 29, 2021
3 min read

We’ve teamed up with the national charity Sense to support their work on a programme of sensory walks. Find out how you can better connect with nature and get the most from your next walk.

Read more
Top urban hills that are worth the climb

Best Food for Hiking and Hill Walking

March 31, 2021
5 min read

Nutrition in the great outdoors: What do you need to know? Bought to you by GetOutside Champion Ben Turner - an MNU certified evidence-based nutritionist, level 4 Personal Trainer and avid adventure enthusiast.

Read more
daywalksnorthumberland_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

Day walks in Northumberland

March 29, 2021
6 min read

GetOutside Champion Dave Wilson is as passionate about the outdoors as he is about his native Northumberland. From exploring the valleys of the Cheviot Hills, to hiking Hadrian’s Wall, his enthusiasm for England’s Border County is endless. Check out his new guidebook ‘Day Walks in Northumberland’.

Read more
bdo_hero.dfb116b24fe1749d7b8d7d2da6a64dab

Public Rights of Way

March 29, 2021
9 min read

Did you know, we show over 220,000 km of public rights of way on our maps? Approximately 170,000 km of these are footpaths and 40,000 km are bridleways. Over 4,600 km are National Trails and 30,900 km are recreational routes!

Read more
londonwildcity_herobanner.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

London: staying wild in the city

March 15, 2021
7 min read

Cities can often be unexpected treasure-troves of nature. Chris Platt explores London to discover where nature has taken up residence, and where you can reconnect with the wild.

Read more
Guide to spring wildflowers

Five fantastic walks with kids

March 5, 2021
8 min read

GetOutside Champions Jen & Sim Benson are massive advocates of an outdoor family lifestyle in the Great British outdoors. Their fantastic new book '100 Great Walks with Kids' is packed with woodland adventures, tasty treks, trails through time, mini mountains and wildlife wanders for the whole family to enjoy!

Read more
Teaching kids to ride a bike

8 tips for getting outside with a baby

March 3, 2021
6 min read

GetOutside Champion Suzanne lives on the edge of the Peak District and has been hiking with her five- and one-year-old boys since they were babies. Here are her 8 top tips for getting outside with a baby.

Read more
citywalks_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

10 best city walks

February 2, 2021
15 min read

The vast majority of us in Great Britain live in urban areas. Our cities have such an eclectic mix of people, cultures, skylines and history to enjoy. So, take a wander around the streets or your local park, find some new street art, and uncover the hidden histories that make up the cities we call home. Here's our selection of 10 of the best city walks.

Read more
AA Walks: Golden Beaches and Cliffs at Porthcurno

ITV’s Cornwall and Devon walks

January 6, 2021
5 min read

Cornwall and Devon form the far south-west part of Britain and are a haven for locals and holidaymakers alike. Dramatic coastline plus wild moorlands, hills and valleys make it the perfect place to explore on foot or by bike.

Read more
walks_feet_dry_hero8.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

Walks to keep your feet dry

January 5, 2021
10 min read

During wetter months there may be a fair bit of mud on the trails, which can turn a leisurely stroll into a slippery mud bath. Some routes do remain relatively mess-free - you just have to know where to go! Our OS GetOutside Champions share their tried and tested walks to keep your feet dry.

Read more
beld_explorelocal_hero3.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

10 best UK hill walks for beginners

January 3, 2021
7 min read

Despite a reputation for rainy weather and small mountains, the UK is an excellent place for hill walking. It has many National Parks and protected areas where nature is preserved and worth a visit. So here's 10 of the best UK hill walks for beginners to take in the beautiful landscapes.

Read more

Five of the spookiest uk & ireland walks

October 25, 2020
4 min read

Give yourself an authentic fright night experience with these walks around the spookiest places in the UK!

Read more

How to find easy walking and cycling routes

October 15, 2020
3 min read

If you prefer traffic-free cycling routes, need a footpath that's stile-free so you can walk with a pram or are looking for a route suitable for a wheelchair, former railway lines can be the ideal solution.

Read more

10 best sunset views

October 14, 2020
10 min read

We spoke to our OS GetOutside Champions about their favourite places in Britain to watch sunset. It was hard to choose a favourite so here’s ten of the best sunset views with details on how to get there.

Read more
brecon-beacons-banner.72ce86ea891b3dec58299284fa5b7ba2-1

Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog): multi-day hike

July 15, 2020
4 min read

Long distance walking is more popular than ever in the UK. OS Champion Phillipa Cherryson heads out on a two day hike to explore some of our amazing countryside.

Read more
begwalkinghero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

What is a GPX file?

July 1, 2020
5 min read

In any discussion of routes, navigation or GPS devices, you have probably seen people mentioning ‘GPX files’. GPX is shorthand for GPS eXchange Format and is a type of file that’s really helpful to anyone who loves the outdoors, plus it's the most popular way of saving and exchanging routes.

Read more

Walking the norfolk coast path

January 20, 2020
13 min read

John is registered blind. Along with his sight guide Lauren, they are on a mission show the world that blind or disabled people can do great stuff outside too.

Read more

Top 5 accessible walks

October 1, 2019
3 min read

Debbie North, from Access The Outdoor Guide, uses a variety of off-road mobility wheelchairs to access the countryside and wants to inspire other less-mobile users to do the same through accessible wheel-friendly walks. Here are five of her favourites.

Read more

5 classic scottish ridge walks

August 6, 2019
4 min read

The long days of summer are the perfect time to get outside and explore some of the finest ridge walks that Scotland has to offer. Here #GetOutside Champion Cat Webster picks her top five classic days out to savour in the sun.

Read more

5 epic walks

July 4, 2019
5 min read

Explore the Howgill Fells with #GetOutside Champion James Forrest

Read more
A range of mountains over the lake

Wolfscote Dale and Beresford Dale from Hartington

September 11, 2018
4 min read

Dovedale is a honey pot for the Peak District and attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. This 10km circular walk gives you all the pleasures of upper Dovedale, starting and ending in the charming Peak District village of Hartington but without the crowds of Dovedale.

Read more
A range of mountains over the lake

Hawksmoor to Dimmingsdale circular walk

August 29, 2018
7 min read

GetOutside champion Hilary Tomlinson guides you from Hawksmoor to Dimmingdale in this easy circular walk.

Read more
A range of mountains over the lake

The Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge

April 12, 2018
5 min read

One of David Wilson's favourite challenges is walking The Yorkshire Three Peaks. He shares the basics with us of what you can expect on this epic 25 mile walking challenge taking in the summits of Pen-y-ghent, Ingleborough and Whernside.

Read more
responsible-dog-walking-hero.2459c66550e35ba20830f8037c980982

Responsible dog walking

April 11, 2018
7 min read

Tracy Purnell is a lover of our canine friends and her gorgeous dogs go everywhere exploring with her. Here she takes us through a few things to consider when taking your dogs to the countryside.

Read more

Hadrian’s wall – a journey back in time

March 13, 2018
7 min read

Hadrian’s Wall Path showcases 84 miles of UNESCO World Heritage site, two historic cities, a National Park, a picturesque coast and countryside, and of course a BIG wall! OS GetOutside Champion David Wilson gives us the highlights of this beautiful trail.

Read more
A range of mountains over the lake

Exploring Bowerman’s Nose and the Two Moors way

January 30, 2018
4 min read

Follow the Two Blondes as they explore the dramatic countryside around the Two Moors way and Bowerman's nose in Dartmoor - while being followed by a film crew for ITVs Britain's Favourite Walks

Read more

Best Coastal Walks in Devon

September 21, 2017
6 min read

The South West Coast Path draws many an excited hiker to western shores. But you don’t have to embark on the full 630-mile trail to revel in its glory. Devon-based OS GetOutside Champion Belinda Dixon outlines three of her favourite SWCP day trails.

Read more
wasdale-head-1200

8 Epic Lake District walks you need to do

July 30, 2017
5 min read

It’s no secret that the Lake District is one of the most beautiful places in England with some epic walks to boot. Walker and cyclist Jamie Knop has listed eight of the most epic Lake District walks you need to tick off your bucket list.

Read more

Top 5 short hikes in scotland

June 13, 2017
5 min read

Although being so accessible, Scotland still provides a feeling of remoteness and wilderness within a matter of an hours walk. Co-author of the new Wild Guide Scotland, Richard Gaston, shares his top 5 Scottish short hikes

Read more

Three short walks in the lake district

June 4, 2017
10 min read

The Lake District National Park is the largest National Park in Britain. Famed throughout the world for its stunning landscapes, sprawling fells and beautiful waterways, it has inspired poets, writers and artists alike for almost three centuries.

Read more

10 of the best places on the pennine way

April 18, 2017
4 min read

Stretching for 267 miles and following the backbone of England, the Pennine Way is not just an arduous long distance walk that attracts crazy fell runners and determine hikers – it also links some of England's most amazing landscapes and fantastic features. So even if you don’t want to walk the whole route is worth hunting out these gems.

Read more

A bluffers guide to bothies

December 22, 2016
5 min read

Hidden in some of the wildest corners of Britain – from the rugged west coast of Scotland to the deep hinterland of the Highlands, in between the folds of the Lake District fells and tucked into the trees of the Welsh forests – abandoned buildings – known as bothies – lie in wait. Maintained by volunteers and looked after by a charity known as the Mountain Bothies Association (MBA, they are completely free to use by anyone...

Read more
A range of mountains over the lake

Walking coast to coast via the Hadrian’s Wall Path

October 14, 2016
4 min read

Follow the Meek family as they walk Hadrian's Way, a national trail that stretches from the east coast to the west and follows the route of the northern extent of the Roman empire.

Read more

3 of the best walks around dark peak

September 30, 2016
7 min read

The Dark Peak is home to some of the most iconic views in the Peak District. Discover 3 of the best, and follow the routes when you're out.

Read more
A range of mountains over the lake

Six easy south downs circular walks

July 22, 2016
3 min read

Six easy circular walks to follow if you are visiting the South Downs. All easy to reach by bus or train if you fancy leaving the car behind.

Read more
A range of mountains over the lake

Walking the Cape Wrath Trail

June 26, 2016
5 min read

Walking the Cape Wrath Trail, one of the toughest (and also most spectacular) long distance walks in the Scottish Highlands.

Read more

Explore the white rose way from leeds to scarborough

June 7, 2016
4 min read

Explore the White Rose Way from Leeds to Scarborough - this new easy long-distance walking route is ideal for beginners

Read more

​6 classic walks in the North York Moors

May 19, 2016
5 min read

Planning a visit to the North York Moors? Try one of these fantastic walks around the stunning countryside. With various lengths and difficulties, there's something for everyone.

Read more

Pooch perfect pubs & promenades

March 11, 2016
2 min read

Discover some of the Britain's best dog-friendly pub walks - complete with routes!

Read more
A range of mountains over the lake

All about the Yorkshire Wolds Way

January 10, 2016
6 min read

This installment of our 'All about the...' series takes you over the Yorkshire Wold Way national trail.

Read more
A range of mountains over the lake

A guide to Scafell Pike

October 1, 2015
6 min read

Guide to help you challenge yourself by hiking up Scafell Pike in the Lake District, England.

Read more

All about the offa’s dyke path

August 26, 2015
5 min read

Discover more Offa's Dyke, one of Wales' National Trails including where to stay and a route.

Read more

A beginner’s guide to nordic walking

August 22, 2015
6 min read

Nordic Walking is a fast growing pasttime activity in Britain. Discover more with this beginner's guide.

Read more
A range of mountains over the lake

All about the south west coast path

July 27, 2015
7 min read

Discover some of the most picturesque views in England with the South West Coast Path.

Read more

A beginner’s guide to orienteering

July 17, 2015
5 min read

Get started with orienteering. Blog by John Warren of Wimborne Orienteers,

Read more
new_year_day_walk_hero.d635ad0f1f03d16ac80ae9884a3c9df0

11 ways to spruce up your festive walks

December 16, 2000
6 min read

Transform a boring winter walk into a fun-filled mini-adventure with these family-friendly activities to make every walk a lot of fun! Here are 11 ways to spruce up your New Years Day walk.