Half a century after its inception, the Coast to Coast path becomes a National Trail this spring, opening up the wild landscapes and historic villages of Northern England to a new generation of hikers

5 15.6 km / 9.7 miles / 6 hours Ascent 1080m/3543ft

4 38.9km / 24.2 miles / 12-14 hours Ascent 2927m/9603ft

We keep the ‘van stocked and ready, the bed made and cupboards full should a break in the weather and granddaughter childminding duties allow us to spend a few days away. I like to keep an eye on the

6 20.6km / 12.8 miles / 7-7.5 hours Ascent 1122m/3680ft

■ Distance: 5½ miles/8.7km ■ Time: 3½-4½ hours ...