Bedfordshire Scultpure Trail named the UK’s best for accessibility

Footwear expert Charles Clinkard has found that Bedfordshire’s Sculpture Trail at Rushmere Country Park is the top in the UK for accessibility after looking at the best walks available across Great Britain.

Research has shown that children experience profound and diverse benefits though regular contact with nature. In fact, spending time outdoors improves children’s physical and mental well being, motivation and confidence with 83% of children agreeing that being in nature made them very happy according to a survey by Natural England.

With this in mind, Charles Clinkard, researched the best walks that Britain has to offer and created a Family Walk Index, which rates walking trails based on accessibility, pram and wheelchair access, parking, toilets, distance and walking time, children’s activities and cost.

The Sculpture Trail at Rushmere Country Park came out as the top ranking walk for accessibility. The route has disabled parking, disabled toilets, baby changing and the path is fully accessible for prams and wheelchairs. Plus there’s plenty for little ones to do, including a fairy trail and playground as well as refreshments and a visitor centre. The trail also offers plenty of opportunities to see the local wildlife, including green woodpeckers and herons.

Talking about the rankings, Rachel Clinkard, Ecommerce Director at Charles Clinkard, said: “We're really lucky to have such amazing walks right on our doorstep. From fantastic coastal walks to exciting nature trails, we really do have it all! 

"Getting outside and exploring nature is a great way to boost your child's development. Not only can they learn more about the world around them but investigating wherever they can helps improve their fine motor skills. Plus, getting outside and enjoying a bit of exercise can help give everyone's mood a little boost too.

"Some of the country's favourite walks aren't necessarily family-friendly. Many are quite challenging, and others don't have all the relevant facilities such as toilets, baby changing, and accessible paths. For families with children, it can be difficult to know exactly which walks are best. That's why we put together our list of 40 family-friendly Great British walks."