Foot Trails, an award-winning self-guided walking company based in Frome, has launched two captivating new routes in Somerset: ‘King Arthur’s Trail’ in South Somerset and ‘Wild Coast and Wild Moor’ in North West Somerset. These bespoke trails showcase the region’s charming villages, historic sites, and breathtaking natural scenery, appealing to walkers from across the globe, including visitors from the USA and Canada.
Visitors can enjoy walking at a leisurely pace of around two miles per hour, away from crowded paths, fully immersing themselves in the tranquil rural beauty of Somerset. The package includes luggage transfers and convenient transport drop-offs, allowing walkers to fully relax and focus on the journey ahead.
What sets these adventures apart is the use of robust, waterproof trail cards and tactile maps instead of digital devices. These easy-to-follow, step-by-step written directions enable walkers to stay engaged with their surroundings without screen distractions.
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Each day unveils a mini-adventure: ‘King Arthur’s Trail’ features highlights like Glastonbury Tor, Cadbury Hill Fort, Glastonbury Abbey, and a traditional cider farm. Meanwhile, ‘Wild Coast and Wild Moor’ winds through stunning locations such as Porlock, the Doone Valley, Lynmouth, and the open moorlands.
The Foot Trails cater to different fitness levels, offering daily walking distances from 7 to 9 miles or more than 10 miles. Guests stay in carefully selected country inns known for their warm hospitality and locally sourced food, with breakfast included to start each day right.
Coinciding with National Walking Month and the upcoming May Bank Holiday, this is an ideal time to embrace walking as a fitness activity. Dr. Alexandra Moorhouse, a GP at Wellsoon Private Healthcare in Shepton Mallet, Somerset, recommends walking as a gentle yet effective way to improve cardiovascular health and muscle strength across all ages.
Dr. Moorhouse explains, “Walking is a joint-friendly exercise, especially beneficial for those recovering from surgery or experiencing joint discomfort. It allows you to build fitness gradually without the strain that running can sometimes cause. It also offers mental health benefits through regular exposure to fresh air and nature.”
For those looking to challenge themselves, Dr. Moorhouse suggests incorporating incline walking to engage additional muscle groups, such as the core, hamstrings, and glutes. Increasing walking speed and incorporating interval training can build endurance and prepare individuals for more intense activities like running.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful escape or a new fitness routine, these tailored Somerset walking trails provide a perfect blend of adventure, history, and wellness.