Discover England and Wales through the National Trails
The National Trails are long distance routes for hiking, cycling and horse riding through some of the most exquisite landscapes in England and Wales. The increasing popularity of these activities and a strong post WWII national desire to keep certain areas special led to the establishment of National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Beauty and National Trails. Today there are fifteen trails, covering a distance of some four thousand kilometres. One of the major differences between these trails and others found elsewhere in the world is the fact that they are not just nature trails. There are numerous cultural and historical landmarks everywhere. History and tradition oozes from literally every corner and crevice.
The South Downs National Park is home to the South Downs Way National Trail. This hundred and sixty kilometre long trail wends its ways through one of the largest chalk landscapes in the country. Spectacular vistas are common. The trail starts at the Youth Hostel in Winchester and end, eight days later, at the Western End of Eastbourne Promenade. The trail offers many attractions. It is home to a wide variety of indigenous plants, butterflies and birds. A special highlight is a visit to the Long Man of Wilmington, a hillside figure more than sixty nine meters high. There are also fine examples of Iron Age forts to be viewed.
The Cotswold Way in the south west of England is another exceptional National Trail. It is a hundred and sixty three kilometres long and is normally completed in about seven days. Hikers start at Bath Abbey, barely ten minutes from the Bath station, and finish at Market Hall in Chipping Campden. The route offers panoramic views across Severn Vale and pass through many beautiful beech woods. Along the route numerous picturesque villages featuring excellent examples of limestone buildings can be visited. Most of this route cuts through the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Another absolute gem is the Pembrokeshire Coast Path National Trail, located in south west Wales. This hundred and eighty six miles long trail requires ten to fifteen days to complete. It is worth every minute. It features a breathtaking coastline, rugged cliffs and sweeping beaches. Hikers will encounter more than seventy unspoilt bathing beaches and more than forty Iron Age promontory forts in excellent condition. Then there is the chain of Napoleonic forts and the many archaeological remains that will ensure continuous stimulation and pleasure. The route starts at the slipway north of St Dogmaels in Cardigan and ends at the bridge east of Amorth Castle near Trenody.
These and all the other National Trails are true treasures. As more and more people become aware of the healing power of nature, their importance and popularity increases year after year. But it is not just nature that can be enjoyed on the trails. There is ample opportunity to meet new friends, to explore the ancient history of the land and to visit the many signs of ancient civilizations. From South Downs to Cleveland Way, hikers, riders and cyclists can spend a lifetime exploring all the various wonders just waiting to be discovered.