The term hiking usually conjures up images of rough tracks, high mountains and wilderness. Unfortunately we’re not all lucky enough to have that on our doorstep so shouldn’t we make use of the resources we have just outside our front door. Pavements. We could spend days walking the streets of London or York, New York for that matter, and not see everything on offer. We all know that. But what about the little market towns and former industrial hubs that most of us call home. I’m sure we can find something of interest if we look hard enough.
It’s said that all high streets look the same nowadays and at ground level that’s probably true but look above the facades of the chain stores and express supermarkets and that’s where you see it. It might be a name of long since vanished retailer painted onto the side of the building or maybe an interesting chimney pot or some remarkable stone work created by a master of an almost forgotten skill. Now when I visit new towns and cities I’m usually looking upwards for remnants of the history of the place. Most people miss it, some don’t even know it’s there. Just here, in Newport Isle of Wight there’s stacks of history so imagine what you might find in your hometown. Just remember to look up.
We tricked Gramps into hiking with us. He may not realise but yes, that wander around the narrow alleyways, riverbanks and dockyards that he used to frequent was indeed hiking. an urban hike. We had a great afternoon and our very own personal guide and I think the kids got a little insight to where there Grandad grew up.
If you’ve been on a great Urban Hike, have any ideas for towns and cities to hike through  or think urban hiking is the worst idea ever, leave us a comment below. Cheers.
Just Up The Trail 
Love it, we were in London last week and kept reminding the girls to look up. Urban hiking should become a thing!!
Thanks, check out Liz Thomas’ site for Urban Hiking, she’s made it a thing over in the states http://www.eathomas.com/?s=urban+hiking
We’re hoping to hike all the Thames bridges in London over a weekend soon but dreading the miles and miles of road walking! The kids hate tarmac too
Reblogged this on Just Up The Trail and commented:
We’ve been chatting away about going to London before Christmas. Hazel wants to take the kiddies to see the lights. I want to take the kids on an Urban Hike and do all the Thames bridges in a couple of days. There may be a compromise but we’ll see.
As it’s a wet sunday I thought I’d repost this little piece about Urban Hiking in Goole of all places. It was only a few hours but it’s still one of favourites.
Where have you found unexpected trails?
For a much more adventurous example of Urban Hiking, check out Liz Thomas’ Urban Hike. 5 1/2 days across LOS ANGELES. I know, that’s pretty cool right?