The eighth edition of The UK Trailwalker's Handbook was published in 2009 and researched by volunteers of the Long Distance Walkers Association. It is a comprehensive directory of Long Distance Paths, covering 720 main trails and about 190 shorter routes, giving the walker a wide range of experiences. There are regional overview maps, and an index of walking guide publishers and support companies. There are 60,000 miles of routes, right across the UK, walked by millions of people every year. Trails range from 20 miles to 850 miles, many with luggage -carrying services available. The best stretches of route from each region are highlighted at the beginning of each section. The book is ideal for finding a trail that suits you and your timescale, be it hours, days or weeks. But do search through it thoroughly to find those trails, like Tops of the North (which goes through Lancashire and Cumbria, but appears in the East Central England section as it starts in Derbyshire) which cross more than one region. The Handbook provides an invaluable overview and reference source for walkers and aims to promote trails whilst encouraging walking. It is full of information and inspiration for many successful walks. Enjoy!

Margaret Parker