Walking IN MEMORY

Gillian Thornton discovered these beautiful strolls on National Trust land, donated in memory of those loved and lost

- Gillian Thornton

Lockdown allowing, autumn is a great time to explore, on foot, the large areas of British countryside which were donated to the nation in memory of fallen family and friends of the wars. This living, outdoor memorial is cared for by the National Trust (NT), which ensures the areas are permanently accessible for walking.

Covering more than 50,000 hectares, the walks take in a unique mix of mountain peaks, rolling hills and quiet countryside. Most of the land is open access, although some areas have a paid-entry house or garden, which makes a great focus for a day out or staycation.

GREAT FOR

Art lovers

Artist Stanley Spencer, who produced 16 huge canvases to decorate Sandham Chapel in Hampshire, served in the Royal Army Medical Corps during the Macedonia and Greek campaign. His paintings depict scenes of hospital, war and military life.

Sharpenhoe Clappers

I came across my first National Trust outdoor war memorial on a Sunday afternoon stroll round the northern tip of the Chilterns. On the ridge of Sharpenhoe Clappers, a quaintly named hilltop in Bedfordshire, I discovered a poignant plaque honouring two brothers, Norman and Laurance Robertson, who were both lost during the First World War.