Walking the Midshires Way

Ron Haydock & Bill Allen

This is the first complete guide to this attractive long distance route. ‘Walking the Midshires Way’ takes you on a 225-mile walk from the Ridgeway in Buckinghamshire to the Trans-Pennine Trail in Stockport, Greater Manchester, passing through such diverse counties as Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire. Divided into 18 sections of between 10 and 14 miles, each includes fascinating facts of historic interest, the terrain, route descriptions, sketch maps, illustrations and information on accommodation.

What better way to enjoy the diverse scenery, terrain and fascinating history within the boundaries of so many different counties than to walk The Midshires Way? A 225-mile (360km) footpath and bridleway crosses Middle England, linking the Ridgeway in Buckinghamshire with the Trans-Pennine Trail at Stockport in Greater Manchester. It passes through the counties of Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire, Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire, and the metropolitan area of Greater Manchester. Generally the Way follows public bridleways and quiet country lanes. The terrain is pleasant yet undemanding therefore suitable for any walker. It starts and ends at railway stations and can be walked as easily in either direction. Divided into 18 sections (each between 10 and 14 miles therefore a nominal day’s walk) there are detailed descriptions of readily available accommodation at the end of each section. There is also information about how the Way came into being, the terrain, route descriptions, sketch maps, illustrations and advice for cyclists and equestrians. The authors are members of the Ramblers' Association and of the Long Distance Walkers' Association.