A cherished walking path in Somerset has once again been crowned the nation’s favourite, securing top spot for the second consecutive year in the Britain’s Favourite Path 2026 competition announced on Thursday, 27 August.
The Strawberry Line near Winscombe claimed 25 per cent of the public vote, surpassing renowned routes such as the picturesque Buttermere Circular Path in the Lake District.
This celebrated section follows the course of a former railway line that once linked Witham Junction to Yatton via Shepton Mallet, Wells and Cheddar. Now reclaimed by nature, it serves as a thriving wildlife corridor and a traffic-free trail popular with walkers and cyclists alike.
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Amanda Jane Baldwin, a Somerset resident who nominated the path, expressed her admiration: “The Strawberry Line is right on my doorstep, so I don’t need a car to enjoy this stunning walk. Since moving to Winscombe over seven years ago, I have tread this path countless times. It’s accessible in all weathers, stretches for miles, and offers a wonderful experience surrounded by natural beauty. Its maintenance by dedicated volunteers makes it all the more special.”
The Strawberry Line’s victory continues a winning streak for sections of this defunct railway, following last year’s success of the route between Bude and Westward Ho!.
The runner-up was the Buttermere Circular Path in Cumbria’s Lake District, nominated by Stephen Ward, who has walked the trail over fifty times. The Holy Island Causeway in Northumberland took third place, while the route from Hangleton to Devil’s Dyke in Sussex narrowly missed out on a podium finish, coming fourth.
The competition is organised by the walking charity Ramblers, with support from Postcode Lottery players. Since 2015, the Ramblers have benefited from over £26 million raised through the Postcode Lottery.
Matt Johnson, Postcode Lottery ambassador and judging panel member, commented: “Congratulations to the Strawberry Line on being named Britain’s Favourite Path 2026. Walking is a fantastic way to slow down, clear your mind, and appreciate our surroundings. It’s wonderful to see a path so valued by its local community receive this recognition. I hope it inspires more people to explore new routes and enjoy the physical and mental benefits of being outdoors.”
Rachel Mulrenan, Ramblers campaign manager, added: “Local paths are vital lifelines connecting people to green spaces, fresh air, and improved well-being. Now more than ever, these connections matter. Unfortunately, many paths across Britain are missing, blocked, or unusable. The Strawberry Line exemplifies the positive impact of reopening and expanding local routes for communities.”
Public Vote Results:
| Position | Path | Location | Percentage of Votes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | The Strawberry Line | Somerset | 25% |
| 2nd | Buttermere Circular | Cumbria | 22% |
| 3rd | Holy Island Causeway (Lindisfarne) | Northumberland | 15% |
| 4th | Hangleton to Devil’s Dyke | Sussex | 12% |