Be a responsible adventurer
Do you go on adventures alone, with friends or with your family? There are ways that you can ensure your adventure maximises the benefit in the local area.
Buy a guide book! Most of us would buy one when heading overseas so why not get one for your local area or your UK destination? Bradt do an amazing Slow Travel series for some of the UKs most beautiful areas.
On day trips, try and spend some money in the local community - could be as simple as a cream tea from a local cafe or fish and chips by the sea at the end of the day. If you can, stay overnight - find a campsite and enjoy the area once the day trippers have gone.
Consider where to park - do some research and try and avoid the main areas, you may find a much quieter place to park and a better experience. Or leave the car in a town and get a bus for the final part of your journey. Always park in a designated car park, parking on the side of the road can cause erosion and loss of biodiversity or worse, block the emergency services.
Plan your routes and know shortcuts, use the local tourist information or National Park websites to plan a walk they have a plethora of options. Or use an online mapping app such as OS Maps or Kamoot to inspire routes that have been done by others. Make sure you know your limits and can read a real map too - don't rely on online trackers if going remote.
Consider making a donation to a local conservation charity or the National Park. This helps their volunteers maintain paths, gates and many are working towards making the outdoors more accessible - something we are passionate about at FWC! Better still see if there is a volunteer day that you can take part in - gain a new skill, meet new people and make a difference!
What are you top tips for planning adventures? Share in the comments!
