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

HOME ADVANTAGE

Go car-free and take the train and bus from the city to some of the Scottish coast’s most beautiful beaches

■ Distance: 6½ miles/10.4km ■ Time: 3 hours ...

Riding a lap of Britain is also a journey of self-discovery. Meg Elliot speaks to three riders who conquered the coast in 2025

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