Fossilised dinosaur prints, volcanic craters, ice-carved corries – there are places in Britain where the landscape is a portal to the past. Hanna Lindon takes a stroll through 4 billion years of British history

NEWCASTLE AND MARDU CIRCULAR Level Easy Elevation gain 217m Length 6.1km (1hr 49min) Description This round-the-hill loop trail from Newcastle leads through peaceful rural landscapes and small village

11.2km / 7 miles / 7 hours Ascent 1177m/3863ft

Kerry Walker takes a road trip through Bannau Brycheiniog National Park

No need for blood, sweat or tears here, as the smiles break out on the easier edge of the Southern Uplands ’ Galloway Hills.

Tackle this meaty hike summiting three Munros in The Trossachs , including the mighty Ben Lui – arguably the region’s finest.