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

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

Every month, we trawl the nation’s coastline to bring you news of the people, places and exciting goings-on that are worth knowing about

We arrive at the top of High Cup Nick in the North Pennines. “It’s like the world starts just over there,” comments my friend Mark. He’s pointing down the U-shaped chasm of High Cup Gill, beyond whose

The North Country Rover ticket offers four days’ travel within an eight-day period and covers the north of England from Halifax up to Newcastle and Carlisle (excluding heritage railways). Available at

■ Distance: 5½ miles/8.6km ■ Time: 2½ hours ...