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

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

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

We love the Yorkshire Dales, but in summer it can get quite crowded, with walkers off on adventures up the peaks and the less energetic strolling around the picturesque market towns and villages. In a

St Patrick’s Way winds through the mercurial scenery of Northern Ireland, visiting the places linked to Ireland’s patron saint. Ailsa Sheldon sets out to explore its highlights by foot, bike and canoe

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