Britain, Show Us Your Favourite Path: The Ramblers’ Competition Returns for 2026
Now in its third year, The Ramblers, Britain’s walking charity, along with celebrity judges Matt Johnson and JB Gill, is once again inviting the nation to take part in the search for Britain’s Favourite Path 2026, supported by Postcode Lottery players.
Launching on 1st May to coincide with National Walking Month, the much-loved competition returns for its third year, encouraging people across England, Scotland and Wales to share a photo and story of the local path that means the most to them.
This year’s judging panel brings together a standout mix of well-known faces and leading voices from the walking and outdoor community. This includes presenter, mental health advocate and Postcode Lottery ambassador, Matt Johnson who will explore the personal stories behind each entry and what makes these paths so meaningful to people across Britain and singer, presenter and farmer JB Gill who brings a deep-rooted passion for the countryside.
The Ramblers are delighted that the 2026 Britain’s Favourite Path Competition is supported by Postcode Lottery players. Thanks to funds raised by Postcode Lottery players, The Ramblers has received over £26 million in funding since 2015 to help protect and champion Britain’s paths and green spaces.
Postcode Lottery Ambassador Matt Johnson said:
“I’m delighted to join the judging panel for Britain’s Favourite Path 2026 and support this fantastic campaign alongside players of the Postcode Lottery. People in every postcode will have a path that deserves its moment in the spotlight. It could be a walk that helps with your mental health, keeps you fit and active, or connects you to your community. I’m looking forward to hearing about all the local paths that people think are special, from postcodes right across Britain.”
Celebrity judge JB Gill said:
“Walking outdoors is an amazing way to relax, unwind and spend quality time with the whole family. Walking is one of the easiest ways to get active, and it opens your eyes to new scenery, landscapes and communities. Whether it’s a favourite local trail or a breathtaking family adventure, I can’t wait to discover the paths people nominate this year.”
They will be joined by an expert panel including: Sophie Redmond, Paths Manager at The Ramblers, Chris Lawler, content creator and President of Ramblers Scotland, Bethany Handley, writer, disability activist and ambassador for Ramblers Cymru, Lucy Sutton Marketing Director at Cotswold Outdoor, and broadcaster and President of The Ramblers Amar Latif.
Amar Latif said:
"I’ve explored some incredible trails around the world but there’s something special about Britain’s paths that always draws me back. Connecting with nature has such a powerful effect on how we feel. It lifts your mood and has a huge impact on your mindset. Being blind, I’m drawn to paths that I can explore with all my senses. That’s when nature comes alive inside my mind."
Britain’s Favourite Path celebrates the vital role local paths play in connecting people to nature, communities and each other. From coastal trails and countryside footpaths to urban green routes, the competition shines a spotlight on the places that inspire us to get outdoors.
Last year saw hundreds of nominations from across the UK, with eight standout paths shortlisted before being opened to a public vote to crown the overall winner. Now, for 2026, the Ramblers is once again calling on the public to nominate the paths that matter most to them.
To enter, simply submit a photo of your favourite path along with a short story about why it’s special. A panel of judges will then shortlist entries, selecting winners across eight categories: Wales, Scotland, North East England, North West England, Midlands, East England, South West England and South East England. These finalists will then go to a public vote later in the summer to decide the overall winner.
Whether it’s a hidden woodland trail, a well-trodden coastal path or a route right on your doorstep, this is your chance to celebrate the paths that make Britain special. Entries will be open from 1st May to 31st May 2026. To find out more and enter, visit: ramblers.org.uk/britainsfavouritepath
For additional information contact Aspire PR: ramblers@aspirepr.co.uk
