Long distance walks

Long distance routes (over 20 miles) and national trails are included in this section - providing walkers with a thoroughly exhilirating challenge and significant achievement across the length and breadth of the UK.

Most start and finish on the same day, though some (especially the open or charity challenges) may take place over a weekend or longer and involve accomodation or camping.

Given the lengths of these walks, training and preparation are vital for success and enjoyment.

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 knowledgable local expert.
Browse long distance walks

Groups
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
These are organised long distance walks - such as the National Three Peaks or Yorkshire Three Peaks - and can be done as a personal challenge or a charity challenge to raise funds for your favourite charity.
All National 3 Peaks Yorkshire 3 Peaks Hadrian's Wall

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.
More clothing advice

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

OUR TOP TIPS

DO...

Try and work training into your evertyday routine - it will make it easier to stick to.
Make sure you've got a hood or hat - you lose heat rapidly through an uncovered head.
Carry a head torch - you're out for a significant time and may have to walk in the dark

DON'T...

Just focus on your boots; socks can be equally as important over long distances.
Stick to coffee or soup in your flask, hot Ribena or similar could be a better option.
Rule out exploring new horizons - we've lots of fantastic overseas treks.