The only other time when I walked seriously was when I did a charity walk from London to Canterbury in my mid-twenties – which was an experience in itself as I have never walked so far in my life in one go!
My enjoyment of both walking and the countryside has blossomed over the last 5 years, and have also met some remarkable people along the way – whether it’s friends in the group I mainly walk with or other groups or friends I have walked with.
The change in landscape and the seasons are a wonderful joy to walk through and have enjoyed the conversations, quiet spaces and the friendships along the way. The only other time I have experienced this was when I used to ride horses growing up, and would love to get back into at some point.
I am currently Clare Balding’s new book, Walking Home, and am thoroughly enjoying it. The book also inspired me to trek out on a very overcast and blustery New Year’s Day to walk in the South Norwood Country Park – a favourite haunt of mine if I am feeling the need for a short walk.
I have enjoyed this park on many occasions and have enjoyed it in different seasons. Even on a cool winter’s day, it was nice to get out and I enjoyed the muted colours. Although being in London, being in the middle of the park feels like being in the countryside. Also, coming from Canada, I sometimes enjoy a walk on a blustery day – even I don’t enjoy the sometimes crippling cold in Canada.
There is something freeing in a walk – like when I used to ride. There is a rhythm in a walk and a chance to stretch the legs and clear the head.
I hope to walk as long as some of my friends who ramble.