Long distance walks
Long distance walking events cover 13 miles or more, making them a fulfilling and rewarding achievement. National trails are also included in this section. You'll find events and routes across the length and breadth of the UK, with some adult-only events and some family-friendly.
Training and preparation are vital for success and enjoyment. You should work your way up to your chosen distance as it's a long time to spend on your feet, especially if you sign up for a marathon walk. Most longer walking events start and finish on the same day, but organised challenge walks may take place over a weekend or longer and involve accommodation or camping.
FINDING YOUR WALK
Solo walkers
Many of these walks are ideal for solo walkers. You pay a one-off fee and are part of a group which is guided by a
knowledgeable local expert.
Browse long distance
Families & teams
If there are a few of you then simply sign up together - if it's a non-fundraising local event then you just pay an entry fee to take part.
All long distance walks
Challenge walks
Even longer challenge walks - such as the National Three Peaks or Yorkshire Three Peaks - and can be done for fun as a personal challenge or to raise funds for charity.
National 3 Peaks Yorkshire 3 Peaks All challenge walks
GETTING PREPARED
Training regime
You should be a regular walker to tackle one of these but the training doesn't have to take over your life.
"Try and work it into your normal routine, like walking to work or wearing ankle weights to strengthen up," says endurance walker David Wilson.
How to walk further
Clever thinking
Don't just focus on your boots.
"Double-lined socks are a relatively new innovation and means the friction occurs between the two sock linings which reduces some of the abrasion and risk of blisters," highlights the College of Podiatry's Matthew Fitzpatrick.
Family friendly
"A 30-35 litre-sized rucksack should be ideal for long distance day walks. And use drybags inside your pack to keep the contents nice and dry if it rains," say outdoorhire.co.uk.
How to pack your rucksack
ON THE WALK
Put a hat on it
Layering up will give you the best clothing options, with a breathable waterproof outer. And remember you lose heat rapidly through an uncovered head.
Walking clothing
See the light
Given the length of time you'll be out, it's vital to be prepared for all eventualities.
"Make sure you take a good head torch with you, even if you don’t plan to walk in the dark," advise the experts at outdoorhire.co.uk.
More tips on walking kit
Be prepared
"In addition to water I also carry a small flask of hot Ribena. Coffee etc is nice but what if your flask fails or goes cold? Ribena is great hot or cold and can give you a kick of sugar when you most need it," Jo Bradshaw, challenge leader for Discover Adventure.
WHAT'S NEXT?
Overseas treks
With your walking fitness now built up, how about a multi-day trek abroad such as climbing Kilimanjaro or visiting the Great Wall of China?
Find an overseas trek