In this series of Ramblings, Clare Balding visits some of the most beautiful places in the UK to show that whatever age or stage of life you are at, walking has something to offer everyone.
Glen Tilt, Perthshire
23 November 2007
This week Clare walks through picturesque Glen Tilt with first time walker Nancy Meckler and president of the Ramblers' Association Chris Smith.
This route is a gentle introduction to walking in some of Scotland's most magnificent scenery. Clare gets to play Jim'll Fix It for the first time, as theatre director Nancy Meckler fulfils a long held desire to go on a proper walk. Her walking companion Chris Smith, former MP for Islington South and Finsbury, now Lord Smith of Finsbury, is also president of the Ramblers' Association and has chosen a walk which he hopes will persuade Nancy that a good long walk is fun, not something to be feared.
Glen Tilt is 30 miles North of Perth, and now forms part of the Blair Atholl estate, historic home of the Dukes of Atholl. In the 19th century, attempts were made by the 6th Duke (1814 - 1864) to close the Glen to the public, but the Scottish Rights of Way Society fought back, and the route is now open to everyone.
Map: OS Explorer 394 (Atholl) Terrain: All on footpaths, easy going, with gentle ascent and descent Suitable for: All walkers
Route: By road to the village of Blair Atholl, and park at the foot of the Glen Road where there is a car park. Follow the river Tilt upstream through the Glen, to Bedford Bridge and back, with views of rugged peaks on either side,
In this series of Ramblings, Clare Balding visits some of the most beautiful places in the UK to show that whatever age or stage of life you are at, walking has something to offer everyone.
