Trailblazing Pennine Way

Britain's country paths have been traversed by thousands of pilgrims and hikers over the centuries, but the first official national trail was only introduced in modern times.

- Sarah Marshall

Inspired by America's Appalachian Trail, journalist and rambler Tom Stephenson published an article in the Daily Herald calling for a "long green trail" that could form "the backbone of England". It took 30 years of battling with landowners for his dream to become a reality, with The Pennine Way finally inaugurated on April 24, 1965.

Stretching for 268 miles from Edale in Derbyshire to Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders, the path winds through three national parks: the Peak District, Yorkshire Dales and Northumberland. It crosses forests, moorlands and ancient Roman remnants along Hadrian's Wall, with a total ascent exceeding the height of Mount Everest.

Beyond its recreational significance, it marked a watershed moment in Britain's access rights movement, opening up wild areas to all citizens and paving the way for more national trails.

In honour of this month's 60th anniversary, hundreds of travellers are expected to visit the North of England, either to hike part of the path or simply enjoy the natural surroundings. These are some of the best ways to commemorate one of the world's most important rambling routes.

Hike a scenic section

Rather than tackle the full thing, sample a standout section on a new four-night guided walking holiday.

From a base in Appleby-in-Westmorland at one of the trailheads, venture out each day to explore an area lying between the Pennines and the Lake District fells.