New Year walks for the reluctant rambler and hardcore hiker
Wrap up warm and walk off the Christmas excess with a New Year perambulation in The Beautiful South. Enjoy the seclusion of a countryside yomp and be rewarded with panoramic views and sensational wintry landscapes. For the more reluctant rambler a taste trail or town trail, punctuated with coffee shop stops and historical sites may offer the perfect compromise.
The Saxon Shore Way
Stretching some 160 miles from Gravesend to Hastings, The Saxon Shore Way takes its name from the line of fortifications built by the Romans to defend the Kent coastline. Try one of the seven sections through Medway, six of which are less than five miles long. Lose yourself in the atmospheric marshland between Cliffe and High Halstow or walk the vibrant historic streets of Rochester and Chatham.
The Taste Trail
The New Forest Taste Trails are designed to lead you on a journey of sensory pleasure. Combine the beautiful landscapes of the national park with opportunities to enjoy the delicious local produce. Follow the Sea Air Trail on the gentle stroll along the Solent Way through the Lymington to Keyhaven Nature Reserve with glorious views across the Solent.
The Fossil Walk
The Isle of Wight's Fossil Walk at Yaverland Beach is perfect for excited children with excess energy to burn. The island is one of the world's most important areas for fossils and rocks from the last 126 million years. Whilst bits of pterosaurs, crocodiles and dinosaurs have all been discovered on Yaverland Beach, you're most likely to find sponges from the Chalk, varieties of shells, fossil wood, small bits of rolled dinosaur bone and dinosaur poo!
The Battle Trail
Follow in the footsteps of William the Conqueror with a circular walk of England's most famous battle site. The five mile walk takes you through a Nature Reserve wood, via ancient remains of the local iron industry and gently up to higher ground for a fine view north to the 1066 Battlefield.
Birling Gap & The Seven Sisters
Look out for winter visiting birds, peregrines and fulmars during a bracing walk over the stunning Seven Sisters downland or along the beach. Join the circular walk around Belle Tout with a knowledgeable Ranger at 10am on the 8th February 2015 looking at the history of the area and gaining a fascinating insight into this wonderful stretch of heritage coastline.
Regency, Royal & Riviera
If walking boots and compasses just aren't your thing a stroll through an historic town like Ramsgate can be just as satisfying. With two walking loops, numerous attractions and an impressive list of cafés, bars, shops and places of interest to explore, Town Rounders is definitely a path worth following with a Riviera vibe.
The Literary Trail
Hampshire's literary walks have been devised to illustrate the work of six important writers who were close observers of their natural and social environment. Enjoy a 4.5 mile walk through the heart of Jane Austen Country and discover the stunning landscape that inspired Britain's most loved writer.
The Thames Trail
Follow the greatest river in England the 3 miles from historic Windsor to Runnymede, the famous site where King John sealed the Magna Carta on 15th June 1215. A walk through the peaceful meadow to the top of the hill offers breathtaking views across the Thames Valley and is used by many as a pilgrimage site to reflect the birth of modern democracy. In 2015 Runnymede will host a series of commemorative events celebrating the 800th anniversary of history's most important charter.
White Cliffs of Dover
Celebrate the New Year with an exhilarating cliff top walk on the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, Britain's most popular stretch of coastline. Rising majestically out of the English Channel the cliffs, which have long been a symbol of hope and freedom, provide spectacular views towards France.
For more ideas and inspiration visit visitsoutheastengland.com/things-to-do/outdoor-activities/walking
