The list has been carefully selected by experts at the National Trust to showcase unique walking experiences and has been put together following research showing that 64 per cent of people in the Midlands do not walk as much as they would like. Despite this, 42 per cent of people in the region described a feeling of euphoria on reaching the summit of a walk or an amazing viewpoint and 83 per cent say they like to discover new places whilst walking.
Attingham’s secret trail will be opened up to visitors for the duration of the walking festival and will allow them to step back in time and take in a magnificent view of the Regency mansion that was originally intended for only privileged guests to see. Visitors can experience this impressive view for themselves by picking up a free map of this secret walk at Attingham’s Visitor Reception from 1 September – 3 November.
For younger walkers, a special Half Mile Walk will also be open from 1 September – 3 November, giving families a new short route around the popular Mile Walk which has beautiful views across the paddock. Little explorers will find a hidden secret halfway round – a bird hide, which is the perfect place to spot some woodland wildlife.
The team at Attingham will also be sharing some of their favourite secrets of the estate on a series of guided walks every Sunday at 2pm, Sunday 1 September – Sunday 3 November. From walks to admire the autumn colours blazing in the woodland to family adventures, hidden history and a poetry walk, there’s something to inspire everyone to pull on their walking boots this autumn.
Catherine Turnbull, Conservation and Engagement Manager at Attingham commented:
“We’re delighted that Attingham was selected as one of the top ten British Walks, and we hope The Great British Walk this year encourages people to experience new places on foot. At the National Trust we’ve got hundreds of easy to follow walks at beautiful locations all around the country available to download, so are hoping the public will join in and get exploring. We’re especially looking forward to seeing plenty of local visitors coming to Attingham to enjoy the great outdoors and discover some of the secrets of the estate this autumn.”
The top ten secret discovery walks are:
1. The White Cliffs of Dover
The land acquired by the National Trust last year is now opened up to the public for the first time, allowing visitors to walk a new route to the South Foreland Lighthouse which offers a previously unseen view across this iconic landscape.
2. Minnowburn, Northern Ireland
The Giant’s Ring is the largest henge and stone circle in Ireland. It was built around the same time as Stonehenge and Avebury in 2,700BC, but its story is little known. This two mile walk starting from the car-park reveals a hidden side to the well know city of Belfast, which lies less than three miles away.
3. Erddig, Wales
A love story between two of Erddig’s family servants has been brought to life in a walk taking in rarely visited parts of the estate. Retrace the footsteps of where the lovers met and see for yourself, though treasured mementoes how love blossomed.
4. Sizergh Castle, south Lake District
Hidden and hard to find – the secret here is a 1,600 year old yew tree, buried deep in the woods.
5. Sparrow Dale, Sheringham Park, Norfolk
Often overlooked by visitors to the park, Sparrow Dale is a hidden valley that’s perfect for wildlife lovers. It has a wide variety of trees making it a great place to spot birds of prey.
6. Dunstanburgh castle, Northumberland coast
Many may know the castle but few people walk around the back to see the breathtaking views of the remains, its hidden cliffs and volcanic rocks.
7. Malham Waterfall, Yorkshire Dales
The path leads to a magical waterfall where walkers will discover a secret cave. Local legend says the cave is home to the Queen of the Fairies, so making wishes is a must.
8. Trelissick, Cornwall
Overlooking the Fal estuary, this walk leads you much further into the estate than many usually venture to a secluded, iron-age fort.
9. Stowe, Buckinghamshire
Explore never before seen parts of the Stowe estate – including a secret garden hidden for many years surrounded by monuments and waterfalls
10. Attingham Park, Shropshire
A path, newly opened up for the Great British Walk, allows visitors to share a rare view of the front of Attingham Hall, previously only reserved for privileged guests of the owners, the Berwick family.