Book Review - Trailblazer Guide - Pennine Way

Some of my first serious walks started from Edale and they generally included a section of the Pennine Way so it is with some affection that I picked up a review copy of the second edition of this Trailblazer guide. Subsequently I have walked much of the path, especially where it encounters higher ground so I feel well qualified to comment on the book’s contents.

A larger than usual team has been involved in this book and together they have produced what might become the definitive guide to this long distance trail. The content is comprehensive based around 137 detailed maps. These are hand drawn and annotated with the kind information you need when walking the trail with the inclusion of GPS waypoints adding technological assistance to walkers.

One of the hardest sections to navigate is across Bleaklow in mist. The path is hard to see amidst the mass of groughs and peat hags where a minor error in navigation will probably cause you to thrash about in knee high peat porridge in a desperate search for the path. The map for this section is clear, so much so that I can read it without glasses, which is a real bonus in rainy conditions. The instructions are short and to the point and should safely navigate you through this peat morass. This is just one example of how effectively this guide is written.

As with all books in this series, there is a wide range of information on public transport (that enables you to easily construct shorter day walks), accommodation and places to eat plus notes on flora, fauna and history. What more could you ask?

Verdict – It is hard to criticise this book. It offers value for money and leads the market in design and content. The Pennine Way (Second Edition) is part of a series that has lifted the quality benchmark for walking guides and this book should find a place on your shelves as both a good read and a practical book to take with you on the Pennine Way.

Review date - 4th July 2008 - Reviewed by LJ