Footpaths - by Tom King (Paperback)

About the Book

Lavishly illustrated throughout, this is the fascinating history of Britain's unique patchwork of footpaths - the priceless 'rights of way' that have enriched the lives of millions.

Book Synopsis

Britain's footpaths and bridleways form a gossamer web over the face of the land. These tiny byways, marked by their lines of stiles and fingerposts, are a uniquely distinctive feature of the British landscape. Legally, they are part of the King's Highways network, enjoying the same status as a motorway. Old as the hills, constantly fought over, cheekily penetrating to some of the most private of places, these thin strips of grass and mud have for centuries aroused high passions as well as delight. The nation's quiet country walkways have a tumultuous history. The result of more than thirty years of research, this book tells the full story of Britain's 'rights of way system', a prosaic term for a unique and priceless national legacy like no other.

Review Quotes

'Certainly, much ground is covered within this 96-page book and it represents three decades of research by the author. There's a vast network of footpaths out there to be explored and enjoyed, with this slim volume offering a good preamble.'--Best of British Magazine, March 2025

'This is a well-researched book that will find a happy home in the pocket of country walkers.'--Current Archaeology Magazine, January 2024

'His passion for the topic ensures that Footpaths: A British History is not only informative but also an enjoyable read for anyone interested in the hidden stories of Britain's landscape.'--Country Squire, September 2024

'What Mr King has done with his extraordinarily well-researched and readable book is to convey that if you understand the history of the footpath, you will understand much of the social history of rural Britain.'--Country Life Magazine, September 2024

About the Author

Tom King is a journalist who spent seventeen years as chief features writer for the Newsquest Essex Group. He is also a blue badge London tourist guide.