Guides
Eight starting guides covering what the trails are, how to plan, access rules, four major routes, and how to stay found and safe. Figures and rules are taken from official pages opened on 14 November 2026.
How National Trails are designated in England and Wales, the official list, the acorn waymark, and how Scotland’s Great Trails fit in.
Getting startedPlanning a long-distance walkOfficial advice on checking diversions, booking places to stay, luggage, transport, packing and what you cannot usually do near a National Trail.
Official facts on the first National Trail: 268 miles from Edale to Kirk Yetholm, when to go, how it is waymarked, and what the published sections involve.
The trailsThe South West Coast PathOfficial facts on the 630-mile National Trail from Minehead to Poole Harbour, including ferries, published walking times and the example weekly sections.
The trailsThe King Charles III England Coast PathOfficial facts on England’s still-unfinished coastal National Trail, the 2,700-mile aim, coastal margin access, and the ferries you may need.
The trailsThe Coast to Coast Path National TrailOfficial facts on the 190-mile National Trail from St Bees to Robin Hood’s Bay, based on Wainwright’s walk, including published time, terrain and sections.
The official rules for walking in England and Wales, open access land, dogs, and how access in Scotland is different.
Access and safetyMaps, waymarks and staying safeOfficial advice on maps, trail and rights-of-way waymarks, weather, tides, and who to call if you need help on a walk.