rambling
[ram-bling]
adjective: the activity of going for long walks in the countryside
Coupling magnificent scenery with physical exercise that rarely calls for anything more strenuous than walking, it’s easy to see why rambling has such a stellar reputation on the 50+ travel circuit. Great Britain is a pioneer of the sport, which is fuelled by a passionate community of ramblers. Want to join the club? Read on for a beginner’s guide to rambling, plus a bevy of ideas and inspiration for upcoming walking holidays.
Rambling: 101
At its core, rambling is a term used to describe the hobby of long-distance walking in the countryside. Unlike hiking and trekking, the focus isn’t on working up a sweat or summiting peaks, but simply about embracing walking for both health and pleasure. Generally, rambling is done from a basecamp like a hotel, guesthouse or B&B. This means that after a day of soaking up the stunning countryside, you can return to a hearty meal, cold pint and a blazing fireplace.
Stellar rambling destinations
Wondering where to ramble? Check out some of these popular destinations on the British and Irish rambling circuit.
Dingle
Surrounded by rolling mountains and scenic walking trails, Dingle has earned its stripes on the rambling map. The charismatic fishing town is perched on Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula and looks like it’s been plucked from a Gaelic fairy-tale, filled with cobbled streets and colourful houses. It’s a fantastic base for exploring Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, a wonderland of rugged sea cliffs, sweeping beaches and windswept moors. Pack a hearty lunch and take on the Conor Pass to Croaghskearda Loop, which commands knockout views of rocky peaks and glacier-carved pools. From cosy pubs to candlelit bistros, there are plenty of places to enjoy a well-deserved pint of Guinness after a day on your feet.
Lakes District
Covering a sprawling 855 square miles, Lake District National Park is one of Britain’s most treasured public spaces. Not to mention one of the world’s most coveted rambling destinations. Whether you’re exploring heather-strewn hillsides, skirting cobalt blue lakes or summiting mountains, Lake District offers hundreds of walking routes for every fitness level. Start with Langdale Pikes, a 13-kilometre trail that begins with a steep ascent to the 600-metre summit of Pavey Ark. You’ll then pass through the barren fells, open moors and craggy hilltops of Langdale Valley. Ambleside is one of the many bustling towns and villages in Lake District, filled with grey slate buildings and flagstone squares. Best of all, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to fuelling up after a day of adventure. Top picks include Old Stamp House, an atmospheric fine-dining bistro championing farm-fresh Cumbrian produce like wild foraged mushrooms, Ravenglass lobster, Yew Tree herdwick hogget, Arctic char and Elderflower meringue.
Scotland’s West Highland Way
Showcasing sparkling locks, rugged mountains and sweeping moorlands, Scotland’s West Highland Way is one of Britain’s most spectacular walking routes. While serious hikers take on the West Highland Way with a backpack and camping gear, it’s also possible to complete it in smaller sections, stopping to stay the night at villages along the way. Looking for inspiration on where to rest your weary head? Check out VisitScotland for a whimsical selection of 16th-century castles, clifftop cottages and secluded farmhouses. One of the best things about rambling holidays is you’ll always have an excuse to indulge in local cuisine. In Scotland, save your appetite for haggis, or the “great chieftain o the puddin’-race” as Robert Burns termed it. Wash it down with a dram of Highland single malt whiskey.
Soak up history on Hadrian’s Wall Path
Stretching for 135 kilometres from Bowness-on-Solway to Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Hadrian’s Wall Path will see you retracing the footsteps of the Roman Army, who occupied Britain in AD 122. The long-distance trail follows the ancient fortification as it winds past the blustery peaks of Highshields Crags and lush green pastures of the Eden Valley, as well as historical gems like Aydon Castle, a fortified 13th-century manor house. Of course, like all good rambling routes you’ll have easy access to traditional country pubs, lively market towns and friendly B&Bs along the way.
Rambling the Cambrian Way in Wales
Not only do the Welsh have dreamy singsong accents, but they also boast some of the most beautiful rambling trails on the continent. Go big with the Cambrian Way, a 300-kilometre trail spanning from Cardiff to Conwy and showcasing some of the country’s most spectacular mountain scenery. The Pembrokeshire Coast Path is another favourite among local ramblers, with a smattering of villages making it easy to complete the trail in sections.
Ready to ramble? Just pack your walking boots, a warm jacket and a sense of adventure…