The Vision
Backpacking Britain was born from a passion for making Britain's incredible trail system more accessible to adventurers of all levels. The UK offers some of the world's most diverse hiking experiences, from the rugged Scottish Highlands to the gentle coastal paths of the south. Yet, finding reliable, up-to-date information could be challenging.
Content Strategy
We've curated hundreds of trail guides, each featuring:
- Detailed route descriptions with landmarks
- Difficulty ratings and preparation guidelines
- OS Map integration for precise navigation
- Photography galleries showcasing trail beauty
- Community-contributed trip reports
Interactive Mapping
One of our proudest achievements is the custom mapping system. Built with Mapbox and Leaflet, it provides interactive route visualization with elevation profiles, difficulty overlays, and points of interest. Users can download GPS tracks, plan multi-day itineraries, and visualize their adventures before setting out.
Community Features
Backpacking Britain thrives on community contributions. Registered users can:
- Submit trail reports and condition updates
- Share photos and stories from their journeys
- Connect with fellow hikers for planned trips
- Rate and review trails to help others
Gear & Preparation
Beyond trail guides, the platform provides comprehensive resources for trip planning. Our gear guides cover everything from ultralight backpacking setups to expedition-level equipment. Weather tracking, seasonal considerations, and safety protocols help ensure users have safe, enjoyable experiences.
Impact & Future
Since launch, Backpacking Britain has guided over 500,000 backpacking trips across the UK. The platform has fostered a thriving community of outdoor enthusiasts and helped many people discover their first real backpacking adventures.
Our mission remains clear: to inspire and enable more people to experience Britain's wild places on foot. We're constantly adding new trails, features, and stories to keep the adventure going.