National Trails website puts you one click away from the
best trails in England and Wales
The
official launch of the new National Trails website has taken place (www.nationaltrail.co.uk) which is packed with practical information and new maps for the 15 National Trails in
The new web
site is the result of an innovative partnership between Natural England, Natural
Resources Wales, and site developer and owner, Walk Unlimited. The site uses high quality mapping thanks to
support from the Ordnance Survey, showing the Trails in great detail as well as
nearby attractions and facilities to visit – such as castles, churches, parks
and museums.
Recommended
itineraries for walking and cycling are easily downloadable, and there are
ideas for tailored outings such as geocaching trails too. Families, outdoor enthusiasts and walkers –
solo or in groups – can use the website with ease to plan the best exploration
of our National Trails.
For the
first time, new interactive features mean that local businesses can upload
details of the services they provide to people visiting the area. This includes
how to get there and where to stay, what to see and where to eat, and where to
find facilities such as bike hire shops, horse-riding stables and outdoor
equipment shops. Trail users and local residents can upload content including photographs, word-of-mouth recommendations and reviews, plus details of visitor events. Together they give an insider’s view on National Trails, from where to eat fabulous ice cream, to where to see spectacular views, find hidden treasures and spot wonderful wildlife. They can even use the site to report any relevant ‘breaking news’ issues – making the website a topical, as well as useful, resource for planning your Trail visit.
Environment
Minister, Dan Rogerson, said: “National Trails pass
through some of the most stunning landscapes in
John Griffiths, Minister for Culture and Sport at the
Welsh Government said: “This development should enable businesses to further
benefit from our well established National Trails, as well as improve the
experience of visitors. The Wales Coast Path has provided a significant
economic boost for Wales and
local businesses since it opened, and capitalises on the Welsh countryside and
coast being a fantastic draw for visitors to Wales
Anne Clark,
Walk Unlimited’s Managing Director, said: "We're really excited to have
the responsibility for promoting National Trails. They are the best trails in
the country and we want to make sure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy
them. The new website is just the start of our work to raise awareness of these
fabulous trails, and the amazing landscapes they pass through."
Liz Newton,
Natural England’s Access and Engagement Director, said: “Our countryside is
inspirational – this web site will help more people to discover it. Walk
Unlimited have been a great partner to work with and are running the site as a
self-funding commercial enterprise meaning that National Trails can be
effectively marketed without having to draw on the public purse.”
Emyr
Roberts, Chief Executive of Natural Resources Wales, said: “Walking is hugely
popular in Wales
“As well as
the financial benefits walking also brings with it many health benefits, we
already know that *34% of visitors to National Trails are motivated by the
health benefits they will get from the exercise. The website will be a really
useful tool for everyone looking to get out and enjoy our magnificent countryside.”
The URL for
the new website is: www.nationaltrail.co.uk
Follow @NationalTrails and visit Facebook (thenationaltrails)
Follow @NationalTrails and visit Facebook (thenationaltrails)
