The history of the Ramblers

Britain is criss-crossed with over 225,000 KM of footpaths, bridleways and public rights of way. With its sumptuous countryside, national parks, way-marked paths and enlightened 'Right to Roam' and Coastal Access Acts, Britain is one of the most walker-friendly countries in the world.

Seventy five years ago, when 99% of the Peak District was out-of-bounds to the public and people risked gamekeepers and even prison to simply go on a walk, it was a very different story.

Since it was founded the Ramblers has witnessed a seismic shift in the nation's attitude towards the countryside. It started with the post-war establishment of national parks and provision for a 'definitive map' (1949) that enshrined a legally protected public rights of way network onto the statute books in England and Wales. The most recent chapter has ended with the 'Coastal Access Act' passing into law, permanently opening up all England's coastline for the public to enjoy.

The Ramblers, with its network of devoted members, has been at the very heart of these processes for 75 years.