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The tips are courtesy of Instagramming hiker Zoe Tehrani, who has accumulated a substantial following of 136,000 users.
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She shares with MailOnline the secrets to avoiding the crowds in the UK’s rural areas.
Approximately 90 percent of the area in Britain is rural and contains 15 National Parks, 46 National Landscapes in England, and 40 National Scenic Areas in Scotland.
There is an abundance of areas to discover on foot, possibly an overwhelming amount.
Here to guide hikers to the best parts and steer them away from the less desirable areas is Instagramming hiker Zoe Tehrani, who ”
The speaker commences by highlighting the Yorkshire Dales as the most underappreciated area in the UK for itineraries on foot.
A 39-year-old hiker, who works as a physiotherapist, says: “I’ve been most surprised by the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors. I was very fortunate to be able to move to Yorkshire for work a while back.”
I extended my stay from the initial six weeks to seven months. Although I had previously visited the Dales about six years earlier for a hiking experience called the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge, my knowledge about the area was quite limited, grounded in a single TV series set in the region, Heartbeat.
‘The landscape is incredibly beautiful and serene. I didn’t want to depart.’
Zoe confesses that selecting a single hiking spot is difficult for her, but she tells MailOnline: ‘If I had to choose just one, I would select the South West Coast Path. I have a weakness for rugged cliff coastlines. Additionally, you can make the hike more exciting by taking a refreshing swim in the sea.’
However, an experienced trekker has no trouble selecting the ideal location for novice hikers
She states, “Without a doubt, I believe the ideal location for those starting out is the Peak District. There are numerous walking routes that are simply short and effortless yet allow you to traverse incredibly unique and breathtaking terrain, all while taking in truly spectacular views.”
‘You essentially don’t have to put in a lot of effort to access the best options, and there’s an abundance of choices available.’
Not everything is focused on the countryside; there’s more to consider.
Zoe also recommends a “lush, green” walk in London for anyone who is looking to explore more of the city’s natural surroundings.
She says: ‘London has a considerable amount of green space, but my favorite location for walks is along the river, down the Thames Path – especially the stretch between Putney and Hampton Court.
‘In the summer, it’s so verdant and full of life that you might easily overlook the fact that you’re still in London.’
While Zoe identifies none of the UK’s natural attractions as being overly hyped, she acknowledges that some of the more well-known sites can become “very crowded at times”.
The hiker says, “The most renowned locations are likely the Lake District and Snowdonia (Eryri), which can become extremely crowded in the summertime. That still leaves a vast number of national parks and scenic landscapes to discover.”
‘In most of these locations, you’ll likely find crowded, well-known spots, but if you wander a little away from these areas, you’re bound to find yourself alone. What I would suggest is that hiking in winter is an even better option for evading the crowds.’
One of the negative aspects of cold weather is its ability to deter large numbers of people from going out. This time of year is one of the best periods to visit the areas that are most popular with hikers.
What would you like to know about the top tips for a newcomer to hiking offered by Zoe?
She points out that ‘you’ll need the right gear to get started.’
What you require will depend on the season, but start by wearing hiking boots that you’ve previously walked in to break them in. For colder seasons, ensure you have a waterproof jacket and insulating layers underneath.
For logistics, I would begin with an approach that’s uncomplicated. This refers to both the level of challenge and the ease of navigation. Let’s avoid starting with a trail that features significant elevation changes, and keep the route short. A non-hilly coastal area or a riverfront path is a great option to consider. Alternatively, a trail that’s frequently used by others can provide a sense of safety and reassurance, with other people around.
Examine a map beforehand to become acquainted with the path you’ll be taking and plan for possible breaks for food if needed – this can be at a pub. However, don’t forget to pack plenty of snacks as well.
‘If you’re relying on a map application for navigation, please download the route beforehand so that you can access it even if your phone signal is lost.’
What are the crucial items that Zoe employs in her hiking backpack?
She reveals: ‘I carry a variety of snacks, a main meal prepared in a thermos, water – unfortunately, I never get enough – coffee in a thermos, additional clothing items and waterproof jackets, a waterproof cover for my backpack, a portable power bank, a first-aid kit, lip balm, tissues, camera equipment, and a compact bag for disposing of waste.’
Lastly, the adventurer is reminded to inform someone of their planned route and schedule, and to check in with them at the predetermined time.
Would you like even more advice from Zoe?
Follow her on Instagram.
@zoe.tehrani
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You definitely should take a look at her blog –
shewalksinengland.com
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