From how to keep going, to why the right knickers matter. My learnings from walking Hadrian’s Wall.

A walking holiday can offer the ultimate relaxation, or can be the worst idea you have ever had. For me, walking Hadrian’s Wall was a unique adventure that combined history, stunning landscapes, and the challenge of a long-distance hike. In a weird twist, it was actually one of the most relaxing holidays I have ever taken. I think this is because the constant walking meant I was not able to think about work as I was too exhausted most of the time.

Having completed 84 miles over six days, I’ve learned from many mistakes and been grateful for some of the choices I made. Whilst I am fortunate to have a good base level of fitness, there was definitely a good amount of mind over matter and it’s worth ensuring you can coach yourself to keep going!

If this post it a bit TMI, I apologise but I have opted not to share photos of blisters to spare you. As ever, I’m happy to share my mistakes to save you from similar.

How to pick your walking holiday

There are many things to consider about the walk you’re considering undertaking.

For example, should you focus on mileage per day or terrain? (I would STRONGLY recommend checking out the terrain and distance. We thought 15 miles a day, no problem. If it had been flat, this assumption would have been correct, but alas.)

Are you comfortable self-guiding your way from one stop to the next or should you go in a group? Self-guiding worked for us as it also meant self-paced. HOWEVER, we did on a couple of occasions need to crack out Google maps to verify the guidebook.

Are you booking your trip with a specialist walking holiday company or self-sorting? We used Shepherds Walks Holidays and they were excellent. But what you don’t realise when undertaking this walk is how little wall you will see.

What accommodation do you have booked? I’d recommend B&B if you can afford it as I cannot imagine being in a tent after that walking.

Do you have to carry your own luggage or is it being transfered for you? Our walking holiday included luggage transfers. This meant we could take a bigger range of things with us, and also that we could have a week of snacks with us.

Walking holiday equipment

Pick your walking boots carefully

Choosing the right boots is crucial. I opted for North Face boots* because you can buy them in half sizes which meant the fit was better. This made a significant difference to how many blisters I ended up with (versus the number Anna had). For a walking holiday, a good boot fit means that your boots should be snug but not tight. You should have enough room to wiggle your toes, and your heel should not lift excessively when walking uphill. When you try them on, make sure you take walking socks with you too. It might also sound obvious but don’t break them in on the walking holiday. Get used to walking in them with shorter walks before you go, and test them on a long walk.

Invest in a hiking backpack

It’s not just enough to have a backpack, you want one fit for the job. I was lucky I had acquired a hiking one, which meant it had good back support, padding and pockets. The pockets I could have lived without, but the back support on my middle-aged body was a game-changer and I like to think alleviated some of the pain on my shoulders.

Plan every item of clothing

Planning your clothes for a walking holiday is different to any other type of holiday. It is not about having a swimming suit and five evening outfits. For a walking holiday you need to think about details. From the cut of your t-shirt to the right sports bra, every piece of clothing matters. A well-fitted t-shirt will prevent chafing from your backpack (sorry if this is TMI). Breathable shorts or leggings will help you feel a bit less disgusting. Linked to this (and again, this is from experience), make sure you have well-fitted knickers or pants. It’s bloody uncomfortable if you don’t and you’ll be kicking yourself as it’s such a simple thing.

We had almost every season in the week we walked (but this is the joy of walking in the UK). To handle something like this, layering is essential. Think thin thermals and moisture-wicking base layers as well as the trusty waterproof trousers (they’re fugly but trust me here). Also, consider quick-dry fabrics which can be washed and dried overnight. There is nothing worse than slipping into wet socks in the morning.

Don’t skimp on the socks

For anyone who is a fan of Blackadder III, the scene where the Prince spends £59,000 on SOCKS, this is what you need for your walking holiday.

Ok, not quite. But don’t rely on being able to wash or re-use. I made the mistake of packing only three pairs of walking socks thinking I could wash them in the evening. This didn’t work. I ended up paying through the nose for walking socks at the English Heritage gift shop. They’re nice, but a bit more planning would have saved me a good £10. It’s worth bringing enough socks for two pairs a day if you can. Bring extra pairs to ensure your feet stay dry and blister-free. Ours were soaked by mid-afternoon each day, and I really wished I had been able to change them. However as you’ve read, I did not plan my socks well.

If you’re looking for the best type of socks, aim for ones made from merino wool or synthetic blends designed for hiking; these materials manage moisture well and provide cushioning.

We tried one day wearing a thin liner sock under a thicker hiking sock which was really good for not producing any more blisters.

Think before you take walking poles

I would 100% recommend walking poles, however I wish I had practiced using them. There were a few things I didn’t count on. Firstly, I borrowed these from Mum and I didn’t have the knack for keeping one extended, so ended up using just one for most the walk. Second, my shoulder hurt a lot from pushing just one into the ground too much. Seriously, I had a wtf is happening moment then realised what the cause was.

Essentials for Breaks

Pack a Picnic Blanket
Finding a comfortable spot to rest can be challenging. One of the best choices I made was taking our trusty picnic blanket*. On the days with no formal places to eat, these meant we didn’t sit in sheep droppings, which was a plus (ignoring the benefits of not sitting on wet or uneven grass). Our picnic blanket has a waterproof backing which was helpful as it can also double as an emergency rain cover or a windbreak if conditions get harsh.

Squash for Hydration
You’ll drink a lot of water, and carrying concentrated squash can add flavour and encourage you to stay hydrated. Frankly plain water just gets boring. Squash or electrolyte tablets can make the water more palatable. With the amount you will sweat, replenishing the salts and minerals is no bad thing. Linked to this, make sure you have a large refillable water bottle. I swear by a Systema one like this*. It’s worth knowing that most pubs and cafes on a walking route will be happy to refill your bottle (more so if you have stopped for a drink or snack of course!)

Snacks and First Aid

Have a Mix of Snacks
While sugar is essential for quick energy, don’t neglect fruits and nuts for sustained energy and nutrition. Pack a variety of snacks like granola bars, dried fruit and nuts. These provide a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to keep your energy levels steady. Fresh fruits like apples or oranges are also great as they offer hydration and vitamins. Plan your snack breaks and try to eat small amounts regularly rather than waiting until you’re very hungry, which can cause energy dips or just hanger and bickering with your walking partner.

Plasters and First Aid
Pack a variety of plasters, including Compeed* for blisters, gauze, and fabric ones for different needs. Anna still isn’t sold on Compeed, but I am. However read the instructions on them before you use them as they aren’t like your usual plasters. We also had a small first-aid kit, but in honesty it was only the plasters we used!

Sun Protection

The thing about walking holidays (and forgive me, this might sound obvious) is you’re outside the whole time. So even if it is a bit overcast or not that warm, you need sun protection.

Bring a Hat
A hat is essential to protect against sunburn, which can be severe despite frequent suncream application. If you’d seen me after a day of walking at altitude with no hat, you’d know why this is a must-have. Choose a hat with a wide brim to protect your face, neck, and ears from the sun. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal, but to be honest, any sun hat would have been a good idea.

Test Your Suncream
Don’t rely on unfamiliar brands. I forgot my trusty Eucerin factor 50* (seriously, if you haven’t tried it you must. Disclaimer, they are a client at work). The alternative I bought just couldn’t handle the challenge. Reapply suncream every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating heavily. Consider a sunscreen that’s water-resistant and designed for sports to ensure it stays effective as you hike. Don’t forget to protect often-missed areas like the back of your neck, ears (yes, I got really burned on my ears and it was gross), and the tops of your feet if you’re wearing sandals.

How to keep motivated on a walking holiday

Set Goals to Keep You Going

Having small, achievable goals can keep your spirits up. Break down the plan for the day into sections and celebrate when you reach each milestone. This can be as simple as a scenic viewpoint, a historical marker, or a planned rest stop. Setting and achieving these smaller goals provides a sense of progress and will keep you motivated throughout the day.

Podcasts for Entertainment

Listening to podcasts can break the monotony and provide mental focus during long stretches. Download a variety of content beforehand (5G can be a pipe dream on long walks), including stories, interviews, and educational topics. This way, you can match your listening to your mood.

A good story or an interesting interview can help the miles feel less challenging and keep your mind engaged. This is especially helpful on less scenic or just harder parts of the walk. Consider investing in a classic set of wired headphones. Wireless ones can leave you with a flat battery at that crucial moment and you will thank no-one.

If you prefer audio books to podcasts, then a long walk is a great way to get through that novel you’ve not yet cracked. It’s worth investing in audible to guide you though, and my readers can get a 30-day free trial to Audible here.)*

Food and Stops

Take the BnB Packed Lunch
If you are staying on a popular walking route, there is a good chance your accommodation will offer a packed lunch. Buy it. There is usually a reason they offer it. It is because reliable stops can be scarce, and having a guaranteed meal is reassuring. These packed lunches are often simple but easy to eat on the go. They will usually include a nice sandwich, fruit, snacks, and drinks, providing all the energy you need for the day. Knowing you have lunch will save you time as you will not need to deviate from your planned route to find food.

Plan Your Stops
Double-check your guidebook’s recommendations against Google. Unexpected closures (such as the only pub on your 15 mile stretch being closed) can leave you without a good rest. It is worth taking time to research cafes, pubs, and shops along your route. Make sure you plan backup options in case your first choice is closed. Knowing where and when you can stop for a rest, meal, or cold drink makes a big difference. It gives you something to focus on and work towards, even if this is just where to put down your picnic blanket. It’s also nice not thinking you’ll have to hold a bathroom break in for hours more!

Cash and Honesty Boxes

Pack Cash as Well as a Card
On rural walking routes you might find that locals have set up “snack stops” with honesty boxes. These snack stops are usually a box in someone’s front garden or some patio furniture next to a shed. For this reason, they do not take card payment, you need to have cash. It’s worth having change as these boxes won’t give you anything back, but you’ll also find you don’t mind paying a little more for use of the plastic patio furniture.

Equally these snack stops are built on trust – so you don’t even consider taking a snack and not paying. These honesty boxes are typically found in front gardens or at farm gates. The stops have a range of snacks and drinks. Some stops are more sophisticated than others – one we found had a kettle and microwave you could use. Others are just a cardboard box with a bar of chocolate in.

In short…

A walking holiday is 100% something I’d recommend, but preparation is key. It’s not just about reaching the end but enjoying every step along the way, and proper preparation will help you do this. Happy hiking!

Save my guide to a walking holiday for later…

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