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PRACTICALITIES

At just over 70 miles (113km) the Ribble Way is one of the country’s shorter ‘long-distance’ walks, and thus an ideal choice for newcomers to long-distance walking. It runs through countryside for virtually its entire length, but the path is rarely far from ‘civilisation’, and only in its higher reaches does it pass through a wild landscape. For the most part it is gently pastoral, although this does not mean that the challenge it offers should be underestimated. Countryside walking can be as physically demanding as hillwalking, particularly after heavy rain or during the summer at the climax of vegetation growth. Substantial boots, waterproofs, appropriate clothing and a comfortable pack are necessities, and gaiters are indispensable on wet days. Shorts are rarely a good idea unless you have hardy legs, and in summer remember to take suncream and a hat. Some route sections offer only limited opportunities for refreshment during the course of the day, unless you make a diversion, so food and drink should be carried, and it is also a good idea to have a small extra ‘emergency ration’ in case of an unexpected delay.