Why we hike without screens

“I’ve always loved being able to step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life in the countryside. Even as a child, I relished the freedom I had to wander the fields and lanes around the Cotswolds village where I grew up. There’s something about immersing yourself in nature that lets all other cares fall away for a while.

Image of Foot Trails Co-Founder David Howell standing at a trig point on top of a hill and looking of into the distance. There is a quote on the image that says 'Most relaxing vacation that we've had. Robert, Canada
A tree stands next to a country lane with two hikers in the distance.

And when I pack my phone away, I immediately feel my focus shift to the world in front of me – to the stunning views, sights and sounds of nature. I can feel myself exhale and relax knowing that all I have to do is put one foot in front of the other, explore and wander. In a world full of screens, schedules and digital noise, the simplicity and beauty of nature is a wonderful tonic.

David and Alison Howell sit on bent over tree trunk looking at a map.
Two hikers walk along a country track through hills on a bright spring day

This sense of escape is what we aim to capture in every Foot Trail. It’s why we don’t use an app for navigation, just our step-by-step trail guides and maps (all printed on tough, waterproof paper). No distractions, no noise, just you and the views.”

David Howell

To find out more about the lesser-known footpaths and trails of South West England, simply visit our All Trips page or send us an email.  We’d love to share our corner of England with you.

More from our blog