From poor preparation and the wrong kit to navigation errors, bad weather and simply trying to do too much, these are 50 of the most common hiking mistakes — and how to avoid them. Plus, a few I’ve learned the hard way myself.

Walking has always been more than exercise for me. It’s where I reset, where I challenge myself and where some of my strongest friendships have been built. This is the story of how that love of walking eventually became Walking in Circles — and why I still believe getting outside can change far more than you might expect.

In January 2019, I did something incredibly ordinary.

I opened Google and typed three simple words:

"Hiking challenges UK."

I wasn't looking to climb mountains.

I wasn't planning to write a book.

I certainly wasn't imagining that, four years later, I'd be standing at Everest Base Camp, running my own hiking website, organising walking events, or calling many of the people I'd meet along the way some of my closest friends.

I was simply looking for a challenge.

This 32 km / 20 mile circuit packs in the South Downs’ greatest hits: the dizzying cliffs of Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters, the serenity of the Cuckmere Valley, the historic heart of Alfriston, and the wildlife-rich heathland and woodland tracks on the return.

Sean Rainey, otherwise known as ‘Walker Sean’, is an experienced ultra challenge walker, Trek Master (TM), and more recently a runner. Having battled with his mental health over many years, overcoming many personal obstacles, Sean has gone on to achieve a multitude of walking and running challenges, and supports a variety of charities that are close to his heart. This is Sean’s story.

Looking for the best family walks in the UK? Discover 40 unforgettable routes, from easy walks for younger children to longer adventures for families with teenagers.

Planning the Annapurna Circuit Trek? This guide covers the route, itinerary, costs, accommodation, preparation and what to expect when crossing the 5,416m Thorong La Pass.

Looking for hill training near London? Discover some of the best hills and hiking routes in the South of England for building fitness, strength and endurance for your next walking challenge.

Discover some of the best canal walks in the UK, from peaceful towpaths and historic waterways to scenic long-distance routes. Explore Britain on foot beside its canals.

Discover everything you need to know about winter hiking in the UK, including the best routes, essential kit, safety tips and how to prepare for walking in colder conditions.

Walk the North to South London Trail, a 34-mile (55 km) route from Cockfosters to Carshalton, linking footpaths, waterways, woodland and green spaces across the capital.

My experience of taking on the Thames Path Challenge, a 100 km ultra walking challenge along the River Thames from Putney to Henley-on-Thames — including the highs, lows and lessons learned.

Discover 50 of the best walks in the UK, from mountain hikes and coastal paths to countryside trails and easier day walks across England, Scotland and Wales.

Explore Hainault Forest Country Park in East London, with woodland walks, open spaces, lakes and wildlife. Discover what to see and some of the best ways to explore the park on foot.

Discover 50 of the best hiking destinations in the world, spanning 7 continents — from iconic mountain trails to remote wilderness adventures, each offering unforgettable scenery and experiences.

In my guide to Snowdonia National Park, I’ll tell you everything you need to know, and also about what happened when i took on a marathon ‘Mighty Hike’ (42km), followed by hiking up Mt. Snowdon.

Using the right lacing technique when hiking can make a significant difference in your comfort and stability on the trail. Here are some of the most effective lacing techniques for hiking, along with a detailed explanation of each technique and its benefits.

This trail, a delightful blend of town and country, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. From the bustling streets of Cambridge to the serene banks of the River Cam, and the quaint village of Granchester, this walk offers a unique blend of urban and rural landscapes.

Nestled along the picturesque coastline of East Sussex, England, lies the historical seaside town of Hastings, in the heart of 1066 Country. Join me as I embarked on a stunning circular trail from Hastings to Fairlight Cove, or as I’m now calling it…Marc’s Battle of Hastings!

The London Monopoly Board walk is a fun way of exploring London, and a great way of reliving treasured childhood memories!