Making the most of your UK staycation
As it is likely we’ll all be staying closer to home this summer, we thought we’d take a look at some of the highlights of the UK countryside. Whilst sunshine may not be guaranteed, there’s no doubt that the UK has its fair share of beauty spots and here are just a few of our favourites.
The Lake District
We recently returned from a week in the Lakes, initially for a business meeting but completed with an extended stay in Kentmere, not far from Kendal.
The Kentmere Horse ShoeAt just over 13 miles this is a longer route taking 6 – 8 hours but encompasses 7 fells with stunning views out over a rich variety of terrain circling the Kentmere reservoir. At every peak there is another view to take your breath away. The experience is peaceful, refreshing and exactly what is needed to shake off the cobwebs and inspire a new perspective.
There are no formal facilities so take refreshments and anything else you need to keep you going.
Exchanging knowledge with orthotics specialist, Sidas
Whilst in Kendal, we spent 3 days with Steve Couper of Sidas UK, with whom we have a long association spanning 30 years.
Norbert Cauvas with Steve Couper of Sidas UK
Sidas is the leading pioneer in custom orthotic technology and provide the original blueprint, the materials and machinery that we use to create our own unique Foot Factor orthotics. This was the perfect opportunity to share knowledge and discuss the latest developments in the field, ensuring that Foot Factor remain on the leading edge whilst relaying real-time experience to the Sidas team.
The Coastal Paths
The South West Coast path is a well-established waymarked route with varying degrees of simplicity and challenge.
At 630 miles in total, it stretches from Minehead in Somerset all along the North coast of Devon and Cornwall, wrapping round the foot of England and continuing onto Poole Harbour in Dorset.
Little Dartmouth to Dartmouth Castle
This is a moderate family-friendly 4 mile circular walk that takes in beautiful sea views before delivering you to a quaint little tea shop near Dartmouth Castle. Enjoy a cream tea as you watch the boats go by before ambling back to the car park.
Surrey and the North Downs
If you’re a Londoner or Surrey dweller, a drive down the A3 will lead you to Hindhead and the lush and leafy vista that awaits you at the Devil’s Punch Bowl.
The Devils Punch Bowl
Whilst only 3.2 miles it is more challenging than the Dartmouth walk taking you through ancient woodlands over rolling hills and fields of heather – and back to where the National Trust café offers appetising refreshments and a nice cuppa to recharge before heading home.
Derbyshire and the Peak District
Bakewell to Chatsworth
This picturesque circular route (there are 2 choices of 6 or 8 miles) takes in both the charm of Bakewell and the delights of Chatsworth, with a stroll along the River Derwent for the longer route.
Whilst this is a pleasant ramble, a sturdy pair of walking boots or shoes is nevertheless recommended, and if you’d like to visit Chatsworth it’s advisable to book in advance and plan your time. Don’t forget to reward yourself with a piece of real Bakewell tart!
Take a day pack
There are so many to choose from that you’ll find something to suit your level and age group either via the National Trust, Walking Britain or All Trails websites. We like to take a few essentials to keep us going and especially on longer walks:
- Water bottle & snacks
- Packable waterproof jacket
- Spare pair of socks (can be a godsend after a downpour)
- A few plasters in case of blisters
- A route map for reference (many walking sites offer a printable pdf)
- A fully charged mobile phone just in case
- All of which fits neatly into a smallish 15L backpack.
And of course… how about some bespoke orthotics for ultra comfort!
If you love walking and you’d like all-day comfort then consider getting some bespoke orthotics made. You’ll get years of wear out of them and you’ll find walking more enjoyable, less tiring and easier overall on your feet.