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Hadrian’s Wall is full of surprises — sweeping views, Roman ruins, and the occasional sheep watching with quiet judgement. But there’s one thing every walker eventually faces that rarely makes it into guidebooks: loo logistics.

A personal reflection on what long-distance walking teaches us—about strength, doubt, and showing up anyway. Featuring Round the Rock, no medals, and plenty of grit.

Rather than heading straight for Alnwick and its famous castle, here’s a slower, quirkier circuit that blends grand design, proper cake, Border Reiver grit and a gentle stretch of the legs.

If you’re looking for a short walk in Northumberland that ends with a cosy pub or café, look no further — this one offers both, and then some! Bellingham is a hidden gem of a village, full of charm, character, and welcoming spots to refuel after your walk. It’s a beautiful route that highlights some of Northumberland’s true hidden gems.

Last month, I laced up for Endure24 Leeds—a 24-hour trail relay where thousands of runners take on 5-mile loops through the woods of Bramham Park, from midday Saturday to midday Sunday. I covered 20 miles in blazing heat—sometimes running, sometimes walking, always moving forward.

After taking part in the Know Your Northumberland Gold Ambassador programme this spring, I’ve come away with a renewed appreciation for just how much this county has to offer—hidden gems, breathtaking views, and stories waiting around every corner. Even places I thought I knew inside out revealed something new.

We set off from Ilkley in a heatwave, with light packs, good trail shoes, and a slightly ambitious plan: run-hike the full Dales Way over five days, covering 16 to 19 miles a day. The idea was simple—run when it felt good, hike when we needed to, and make time to enjoy the journey.

Before I settle in to reflect on our Dales Way adventure and start jotting down my thoughts, I wanted to share one of the unexpected joys that’s become a true highlight of our hiking life: the tutu.

£15 for a pair of socks—really?! I know! Is one pair worth three pints of Tyneside Blonde? Honestly, yes. I haven't always bought fancy socks, but after several long-distance trails (and a lot of blisters), I’ve realised they’re worth it.

You’ve probably heard the quote: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” A lesser-known translation puts it even better: “A journey begins beneath the feet.” And it’s true: your feet do all the work. It’s worth taking the time to get your footwear right.

There’s something quietly magical about stepping onto a trail—whether it’s a windswept ridge on Hadrian’s Wall or a quiet path weaving through ancient woodland.

Before you buy new kit or sign up for a gym membership, the first thing to do when preparing for a long-distance walk is to find your why. Why do you want to walk a long way? Is it something you’ve always dreamed of achieving? Something to prove to yourself (or maybe others)? A step toward a more active, healthy lifestyle? Or perhaps a way to process or recover from something difficult?

I have not always been a runner or even a walker, and certainly not someone who enjoyed endurance or long distances. I started out in my late thirties in a couch to 5K group, who became a slow runner who entered a few races, who then set herself a few challenges, who fell in love with the trails who met a community of runners who surrounded her with positivity and encouragement, who then decided to combine it all ...