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Books > Sport & Leisure > Sports & outdoor recreation > Active outdoor pursuits
Dick Isherwood learnt his craft in the 1960s in the competitive melee of the Cambridge University Mountaineering Club. His enthusiasm meant he took every opportunity to gain more experience on steep rock - dry, grotty or wet - but by 1964 he was already looking to wider horizons and joined Henry Day's "Cambridge Chitral Expedition". By 1969 he had become one of the top rock climbers in the UK, repeating many of the hardest routes and putting up a few new ones in North Wales, the Lakes and Scotland. A job move to the Far East then enabled him to concentrate on his passion for small alpine-type expeditions, much in the style of Shipton and Tilman. One example was his audacious two-man attempt on Annapurna II (7937m). But not all trips were to the Himalaya - he climbed the Carstensz Pyramide (4884m) in New Guinea - one of the "Seven Summits" - by a new route and rounded off the trip with an epic solo ascent of Sunday Peak. He finally "settled down" in 1999 in Port Townsend, Washington and whilst still mountaineering, became an accomplished sailor, frequently taking himself off on long solo trips in his sea kayak or sailing boat around the north Pacific coast. A blogger recently wrote "Everyone had a Dick Isherwood story". This anthology tells many as described in his writings and those of his friends. They illustrate some of his extraordinary adventures over more than 50 years.
The book comprises 36 short walking routes between 4 and 14 miles in Northumberland, England's most sparsely populated county. Ranging from easy ambles and gentle woodland trails to long days on the hills, there is something for all types of walker - and all types of weather. Taking in the beautiful coast with its immense, empty beaches and dramatic crag-top castles to the remote hills of the Cheviots and Pennines, the whole county is covered. Most of the routes are circular, but there are a few linear walks that make use of local bus services. The landscapes are rich in history, featuring Hadrian's Wall, Lindisfarne Priory, Bamburgh and Dunstanburgh castles, and much more. The walks are divided into five geographical areas: north-east Northumberland, National Park (north), Kielder, Tyne Valley and National Park (south) and the North Pennines. Each walk description contains information on start/finish points, distance covered, total ascent, terrain, approximate walking time, grade, maps required, transport options, public toilets and refreshments, and is accompanied by 1:50k OS mapping. The book also includes a handy route summary table.
A guidebook to 40 walking routes on the Isle of Man. The varied selection of day walks, which range from 1 to 14 miles long (2 and 22km) take in the best scenic routes right across this delightful island. Many routes can be combined to create longer more ambitious walks. The Isle of Man offers the walker a wonderfully diverse range of landscapes within a relatively compact island setting, and the routes reflect this diversity - scale the highest point Snaefell (620m), cross wide-open moorlands, drift over beaches and climb coastal clifftops. The assortment provides walkers with fantastic trails, along with detail on the wildlife, wild flowers, unique history and points of interest encountered. Alongside detailed route descriptions and OS 1:50,000 maps (blown up to 1:40,000 for greater clarity), there is plenty of practical information on getting to and around the Manx Isle and advice on making the most out of any exploration of the Isle of Man.
A guidebook to 44 circular walks in the south and west of the Yorkshire Dales National Park, with bases including Sedbergh, Malham, Grassington, Skipton, Settle and Kirkby Lonsdale. The walks cover the valleys of Wharfedale, Littondale, Malhamdale, Ribblesdale and Dentdale - each with its own distinctive landscape and character. Also included is the Yorkshire Three Peaks, a 23 mile (37km) challenge to bag three summits - Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough. The walks range between 3.5 and 13 miles in length and showcase Yorkshire's diverse landscapes, beautiful views and rich heritage. With the exception of the Three Peaks walk, they are designed to suit most abilities: steeper sections are rare and usually short-lived. Detailed route description and 1:50,000 OS mapping are provided for each route, along with information on nearby points of interest and facilities. Highlights include delightful riverside walking in Wharfedale, spectacular views of the distant Howgills and Lake District Fells, and the arresting limestone cliffs of Malham Cove providing a wonderful introduction to this magnificent area.
The fourth title in the extremely popular series of good practice, these DVDs are written by the experts. Filmed in the Lake District and the Scottish Highlands, this DVD outlines the essential skills and techniques for summer hill walking in the UK. In 2007, the Mountain Rescue teams of England and Wales dealt with 778 incidents, a 23% increase since 2003. As with previous DVDs in the series, this DVD has been produced to educate mountain users, making them aware of the often hostile environment of our uplands. It will also inspire, with the dramatic beauty of two of the UK's most popular walking areas shown to full effect. The film follows two walkers, Frederlina and Ben, as they plan their days and follow their walks. We see the challenges they face and the decisions they make. In addition to the film, the technical chapters include: Navigation, Scrambling, Weather, River Crossings, Mountain Rescue, Ticks and Hazards.
This is the second book about a long distance walk, althought the first was a family record and not for general distribution. The experience encouraged me to undertake another long distance walk so it has been a delight to recently complete the Coast to Coast Walk with my wife Ruth. This book records the ups and downs of our journey.
Ever wondered what treats of off-road riding might lurk in those big blank bits on the map between Llandegla, Penmachno, The Marin Trail and Coed y Brenin? Well, take a trip back to the future with Pete Bursnall's fully updated version of North Wales' first proper mountain bike guidebook. It contains a carefully selected choice of 27 mountain bike routes, all of which cover real mountains, trails and bridleways beyond the bounds of the formal trail centres. The routes range in suitability from those new to the sport, through medium distance & difficulty and on to some real challenging expeditions to test your fitness, skills, navigation and even sense of humour - such as the epic 78km circuit of the Carneddau mountains...not to be undertaken lightly. This is pretty much where it all began, remembered fondly by those of us who explored the un-ridden on the first generation of fully rigid bikes in a time before helmets, decent brakes and smart phones. This edition was almost complete when Pete succumbed to cancer, which he fought furiously to the end. Matt Strickland took over the reigns, as he had been closely involved with the book, indeed featuring on the front cover. The 27 routes are in 7 areas - specifically Carneddau, Clwydian, Berwyn, Mignant & Moelwyn, Moel Siabod, Rhynnogau and Snowdon. The book has Ordnance Survey mapping for each route, and a gradient diagram. Many colour photographs are included.
This attractive and cleverly structured guidebook gives dog walkers access to 20 of the finest walks in the west region (Hampshire) of the South Downs National Park. The book is the third in a series of three books covering the National Park. Areas included are: Liss Forest, Petersfield, Butser Hill, West Meon, Droxford, Beacon Hill, Avington, Itchen Way and Old Winchester Hill. With clear information, an introduction for each walk and simple, easy-to-read maps, this beautiful book will appeal to all who want to venture out into the countryside with their dogs. The walks are for all levels of fitness and abilities and having no stiles ensures a hassle free walk for both dog and owner. Both authors are experienced walkers, qualified in mountain leadership and countryside management.
After years of expeditions all over the world, adventurer Alastair Humphreys spends a year exploring the detailed local map around his home. Can this unassuming landscape, marked by the glow of city lights and the hum of busy roads, hold any surprises for the world traveller or satisfy his wanderlust? Could a single map provide a lifetime of exploration? Discovering more about the natural world than in all his years in remote environments, he learns the value of truly getting to know his neighbourhood. An ode to slowing down, Local is a celebration of curiosity and time spent outdoors, as well as a rallying cry to protect the wild places on our doorstep.
They are the best of nights, they are the worst of nights? Bivvying offers a chance to experience a whole new level of immersion in the outdoors, with just a lightweight bag between you and the elements. The Book of the Bivvy provides an informed, humorous, instructive, wry insight into the world of the bivouac, drawing upon Ronald Turnbull's own extensive experience. The book is a half-and-half mix of how to do it and why to do it (or how not to do it and why not to do it). Accounts of bivvybag nights and expeditions, both nice and nasty, are interspersed with practical tips about types of membrane, sites, techniques and minimalist kit. There are stories and anecdotes from all over the UK, plus a few from abroad. The rich and colourful history of the bivvy is also explored in Ronald's own inimitable style, with descriptions of how Diogenes (the Cynic) bivvied under timber and how the Eigerwand was climbed only through improved bivvying technique. The Book of the Bivvy is a celebration of back-to-basic camping, the perfect antidote to our fast-paced, comfort-based modern life. Honest and entertaining, there is every chance it will inspire you to find a remote hilltop, roll out your bag and watch the sunset.
The Lake District National Park is England's most popular mountain region and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Suitable for most reasonably fit hillwalkers, the 145km (90 mile) Tour of the Lake District takes in the best of this beautiful region in a circular tour. The route is presented in nine stages, plus an optional 'prologue' stage from Windermere station to the start-point in Ambleside, and can be compressed into one week or extended over two weeks, giving time to visit many attractions on the way. In addition to the main (non-waymarked) route, which links the main towns and valleys of the national park, five interchangeable high-level stages are also offered, enabling you to visit some of the region's most celebrated high peaks - including Coniston Old Man, Scafell Pike, Great Gable and Helvellyn - should you so wish. Each stage includes summary statistics and clear route description illustrated with OS mapping and an elevation profile. There are notes on local points of interest and a wealth of information to help you plan your tour, covering public transport, accommodation and kit, plus accommodation listings and a facilities table. The Tour showcases the magnificent landscapes of the region, from mountain vistas to idyllic lakeshore scenery. There are lakes, rivers and waterfalls, characterful towns and villages, remote valleys, high fells and fascinating historical features including a Neolithic stone circle, packhorse bridges and properties that once belonged to Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. There are a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and opportunities to sample delicious local produce. The Tour of the Lake District is an ideal way to discover all the region has to offer and is sure to generate lots of memorable experiences.
For the best adventures, use the best map. Water-proof, split-proof, tear-proof, adventure-proof. Malta and Gozo Tour & Trail Super-Durable Map is simply the toughest, most accurate, easy to read, easy to use map of the island you can buy at any price. Super-Durable Maps come with a 2 year adventurous use `Wear and Tear' guarantee. A large 840mm by 694mm double sided map sheet has Malta at 1:32,000 scale on one side, with Gozo at 1:20,000 scale on the reverse. Our special concertina map fold makes our map easy to use and easy to refold to its 235mm by 120mm pocket size. Our legendary 'Tour & Trail' level of detail ranges from major roads to secondary roads to minor roads to streets and narrow country roads, plus dirt roads and walking trails. Altitude background colouring is designed to clearly show the altitude range when travelling across the islands by car or on foot. 100 metre and 20 metre contours are clearly shown on the map along with individual height points and all of the official 'Trig' points. Tour & Trail attention to detail includes our useful symbol range including viewpoints, picnic areas, petrol stations, bar/restaurants and parking areas where you can pull off the road safely. You will easily identify springs, caves, sports grounds, cemeteries, churches, chapels, lighthouses, towers and forts, camping areas, wind turbines, hotels etc. We have ensured that all the walking routes from the Sunflower and Rother walking guide books are highlighted (red) on the maps. It all adds up to the most detailed, most durable, most useful maps of Malta and Gozo that you can buy anywhere. 'Super-Durable' means a waterproof, tear-proof, map that can take the roughest treatment and still folds up like new after your adventures. Our special concertina map fold means this 'near indestructible' Tour & Trail Map unfolds easily for use, and more importantly folds back up easily to its compact pocket size even after the toughest use. Digital Custom Map editions of the Malta and Gozo Tour & Trail Map are available as a free zip file download from the Discovery Walking Guides website for use on Garmin gps units and in Garmin Basecamp and Google Earth software. Digital editions are available for 3G gps apps from Viewranger and Locus Map.
All the mapping you need to complete the 185-mile (296km) unwaymarked Coast to Coast Walk from St Bees in Cumbria to Robin Hood's Bay, North Yorkshire. This booklet of Ordnance Survey 1:25,000 Explorer maps has been designed for convenient use on the trail. It shows the full line of the Coast to Coast Walk, along with the relevant extract from the OS Explorer map legend. It can be used when walking the trail west-east or east-west, and includes low-level and high-level options between Keld and Reeth. Conveniently sized for slipping into a jacket pocket or top of a rucksack, it comes in a clear PVC sleeve. This booklet accompanies Cicerone's guidebook to the Coast to Coast Walk by Terry Marsh. The map booklet is INCLUDED with the guidebook.
Over fifty years ago, renowned British hillwalker and guidebook author Alfred Wainwright described 214 peaks in the English Lake District in his seven-volume illustrated Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells. Like the Munros in Scotland, bagging all the Wainwrights has become a popular and significant challenge for walkers and runners, often taking many years in fits and starts because of the absence of a clear plan for how to link them together. With this problem in mind, Peak Bagging: Wainwrights by Karen and Dan Parker features forty-five routes designed to link up these iconic fells so you can enjoy the challenge of completing them at your own pace - over years, months or even just a few weeks. It presents not only the most efficient routes for completing the Wainwrights as quickly as possible, but does so in such a way that each route is a fantastic walk or run in its own right. The featured routes include a round of the Scafells, and the Glenridding Horseshoe, taking in Helvellyn and Catstycam. The routes are split into seven sections, reflecting Wainwright's seven Pictorial Guides, and to simplify logistics, all of the featured routes are circular with an emphasis on making practical links between the summits. In addition, the book is packed with useful information, including 1:40,000-scale maps, elevation profiles, public transport and parking details, refreshments, downloadable GPX files for each route and custom timings for walkers, trekkers, fastpackers and runners. Also included are overview details of Steve Birkinshaw's then-record-breaking sub-seven-day Wainwrights run in 2014 - current record holder Sabrina Verjee completed the round in under six days. Whatever your timescale for completing the 214 Wainwrights, Peak Bagging: Wainwrights is the indispensable guide to this British hill challenge.
This guidebook to mountain biking routes in West and North West Scotland describes 25 MTB routes north of the Great Glen, Covering a large geographical area, including Fort William, Rannoch Moor, Glen Spean, Ben Nevis, Sutherland, Torridon and Skye, the routes give a real flavour of the variety of different bike riding available. The routes range from 19.5km to 73.25km, graded moderate to very hard. Many are long and committing, so good preparation and fitness are essential, and in some cases a willingness to "hike and bike". Each route has a clear and detailed route description along with 1:50,000 OS mapping and a height profile. All routes have key information, including distance on and off-road, ascent, grade, time and the nearest pub and cafe. There is also advice on equipment, planning and preparation, and maintenance, before you hit the trails. Scotland is rightly regarded as one of the world's top mountain bike destinations, with magnificent riding and stunning scenery. From the self-proclaimed Outdoor Capital of the UK, Fort William, to the majesty of the Outdoor Hebrides, this guide you will access some of the wildest and remote parts of Scotland, offering scintillating single track, challenging descents, incredible mountain vistas and many rewarding days in the saddle.
'I am already planning the next adventure. The wanderlust that infected me has no cure.' It all started in Fishguard in the mid-1970s when, aged fifteen, Martyn Howe and a friend set off on the Pembrokeshire Coast Path armed with big rucksacks, borrowed boots, a Primus stove and a pint of paraffin, and a thirst for adventure. After repeating the route almost thirty years later, Martyn was inspired to walk every National Trail in England and Wales, plus the four Long-Distance Routes (now among the Great Trails) in Scotland. His 3,000-mile journey included treks along the South West Coast Path, the Pennine Way, the Cotswold Way and the West Highland Way. He finally achieved his ambition in 2016 when he arrived in Cromer in Norfolk, only to set a new goal of walking the England and Wales Coast Paths and the Scottish National Trail. In Tales from the Big Trails, Martyn vividly describes the diverse landscapes, wildlife, culture and heritage he encounters around the British Isles, and the physical and mental health benefits he derives from walking. He also celebrates the people who enrich his travels, including fellow long-distance hikers, tourists discovering Britain's charm, farmers working the land, and the friendly and eccentric owners of hostels, campsites and B&Bs. And when he is asked 'Why do you do it?', the answer is as simple as placing one foot in front of the other: 'It makes me happy.'
This guidebook to walking Coast to Coast across Devon, presents a 117 mile route incorporating the Two Moors Way and a section of the Erme-Plym Trail. Beginning at Wembury Bay on the south coast and finishing at Lynmouth, the 11-stage walk passes through the beautiful Devon countryside and across two of southwest England's magnificent moorlands, Dartmoor and Exmoor. The schedule can be adjusted to give a one-week walk, or a more leisurely pace if preferred, and the book includes low-level bad-weather alternative routes for some moorland stretches. A full route description is given for walking the route from south to north, with a summary description for walking in the opposite direction. 1:50,000 map extracts show the route and there is lots of practical information on public transport, refreshments and accommodation to make day-by-day planning simple. A map booklet showing the full route on OS 1:25K maps is included with this guide. The county of Devon incorporates a wonderful range of landscapes, from the rolling fields and enclosed paths of South Devon to the wild, wide-open spaces of Dartmoor, with its hill ponies, granite tors and Bronze Age relics. To the north, Exmoor's sandstone moorland sweeps down to the sea, and lofty coastal hills tower over the Bristol Channel.
This guidebook to walking on the Scilly Isles includes 11 day walks and 4 boat trips. The walks are between 1.5 and 10 miles long (2.5km and 16km), and explore the larger islands such as Tresco, St Martin's, St Mary's, St Agnes and Bryher as well as smaller islands in the archipelago. Alongside the walks, which are suitable for walkers of all abilities, are 4 boat trips which explore Annet and the Western Rocks, the Norrard Rocks, St Helens and Tean as well as the Eastern Isles. All routes are illustrated with OS mapping and contain lots of background information on the history, geology and ecology of the islands. There is also practical information on public transport services and accommodation. With their mild climate and relaxing atmosphere, the Isles make an ideal holiday destination, with stunning scenery, rich bird life and myriad wildflowers. Basking in sunshine, rising green and pleasant from the blue Atlantic Ocean, fringed by rugged cliffs and sandy beaches, they reveal their charms to those who walk the headlands, sail from island to island and take time to observe the sights, sounds and scents of the landscape.
The Arran Coastal Way is perhaps Scotland's finest circular long-distance trail, running 65 miles (105 km) around the Isle of Arran in a memorable week-long hike from Brodick. It's accessible from near Glasgow by the Ardrossan ferry. Famous as`Scotland in miniature', Arran is rich in scenery, castles, caves and standing stones. The walking is varied, from mountain paths to deserted beaches, from minor road-walking to boulder-hopping, and in places it is refreshingly rugged. Arran's wildlife is uniquely approachable, and its residents welcoming. Both text and photos have been thoroughly updated after route changes and extra options created by the Coastal Communities Fund project. This third edition has mapping at 1:55,000 and 125 colour photos. Its predecessor was Highly Commended by the Outdoor Writers and Photographers Guild in 2018. This edition has more pages but is lighter and more rainproof than before. This guidebook contains all you need to plan and enjoy your Arran Coastal Way walk, including a Foreword by wilderness walker Cameron McNeish: detailed description of the route, updated for 2021 background on geology, pre-history and history whisky-making, wildlife and habitats boat trip to the Holy Isle revised mapping of the entire route (1:55,000) information about public transport and travel lavishly illustrated, with 125 colour photographs on rainproof paper.
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