New 'Roof of England' Trail Opens

A spectacular new long-distance walking trail, dubbed the "Roof of England," has officially launched in the North Pennines National Landscape. This extensive 188-mile circular route traverses breathtaking scenery across Cumbria, Northumberland, and County Durham, extending into a portion of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Completing the entire trail is estimated to take around a fortnight, offering a significant challenge for avid hikers.

The "Roof of England" walk presents a diverse range of terrains, from exposed high moorland paths to serene riverside trails, including some of England's highest footpaths. Hikers can marvel at impressive natural landmarks such as the Low Force, Cauldron Snout, and High Force waterfalls, with High Force being the largest in England. The route also winds past historical sites like Blanchland Abbey and lead mining remains.

Beyond its dramatic landscapes and historical points of interest, the trail showcases rare and vital habitats, including blanket bog, ancient woodlands, and upland rivers. This rich environment supports abundant bird and wildlife, particularly noticeable in spring and summer with wading birds on the moors. The North Pennines National Landscape team developed the walk to encourage exploration of this unique upland area.