New register for West walkers

The guide sets out the routes of more than 1,600 walks and rides

Walkers and riders in the West who are looking for new routes can now turn to a new online register.

The new list features over 1,000 miles of access routes - enough to stretch from John O'Groats to Land's End and beyond.

And 181 routes on the Defra Conservation Walks and Rides Register, released on Tuesday, are in the West.

The free county-by-county guide sets out the routes of more than 1,600 farmland walks and rides, available to the public under the Countryside Stewardship and Environmentally Sensitive Areas Schemes.

West walks by county and number

Gloucestershire - 14

Former Avon - 25

Wiltshire - 48

Somerset - 49

Farmers and other land managers receive grants under these schemes to allow walkers and riders access over farmland which would otherwise not be available to them.

The Register includes maps and references to the type of wildlife, plants and scenery which can be experienced.

The variety of access provided is considerable, from riverside and coastal walks to open downland and flower-rich meadows.

There are routes for ramblers, for horse or bike riders, families with pushchairs, or people in wheelchairs.

Gentle stroll

Most of the routes involve no more than a gentle stroll and the register includes some of the most spectacular landscapes in England.

"This is an example of partnership at its best," said Rural Affairs Minister Alun Michael.

"The government is helping farmers, and other land managers, to protect and enhance the landscape and historical features, and to encourage wildlife.

"We are at the same time encouraging the public to get out into the countryside to see and enjoy the outcome of their work."