Paths Through Britain

Britain’s footpaths are more than routes across the landscape they are centuries-old stories of movement, belief, survival and discovery. In this panel conversation, we explore how ancient tracks, pilgrim ways and long-distance trails reveal a hidden history of how people have travelled slowly through these islands, and why walking still holds such power today.On the panel will be geographer and broadcaster Nicholas Crane. He draws on this new book The Path More Travelled, to uncover the origins of Britain’s path networks, from medieval church routes and drovers’ roads to the evolution of modern rights of way. Joining him will be Chris Butterfield offering insight into the legacy of Alfred Wainwright and the cultural importance of walking in Britain’s upland landscapes. Also on the panel is adventurer and writer Phoebe Smith, who has walked some of Britain's oldest pilgrim pathways. Our chair for the evening is journalist Justin Rowlatt.From ancient pilgrimage routes to contemporary slow travel, this event reveals how paths connect landscapes, histories and inner journeys.Other panellists will be announced soon.