Opinion: Nicola Chester

There are many underlined passages in my much-thumbed copy of Flora Thompson’s Lark Rise to Candleford (1939). But perhaps only one, in that semi-autobiographical chronicle of rural working class life, that might have led to a career.

Between the Western Shores

This was just one of several welcome surprises that came my way on my 100-mile hike from Weston-super-Mare to Weymouth. You won’t find this coast-to coast walk on any map of south-west England because this is one I cooked up myself. With a lack of invention bordering on the heroic, I’m calling it the Wewey.

Winalot

Stroke

Best walking backpacks

Looking for a new backpack to take with you on day hikes? Rob Slade puts six options through their paces

Sleeping under the stars

Outdoors at night is a wonderful place to be. As the daytime world settles, a new one bestirs; a world of strange wonders too few of us have the joy of experiencing. Camping – whether you’re in a tent, bivvy bag or hammock – is one of the best ways I know to reset my natural rhythms and feel like I’m at one with nature.

Warner Hotels

Two-person tents

If you plan to walk with a tent in your backpack, you want something light, compact and reliable in bad weather. Fi Darby tests a range of price options.

Jointace

Back on track

Walking in natural surroundings can have astonishing benefits for our health – it can even help to rebuild confidence and resilience. That’s why the charity Crisis is leading walks for homeless people in the spectacular settings of the Peak District National Park. Do the walks work? Mark Hillsdon went to find out…