Originally conceived in the 1930’s the Pennine way was the first of the official long distance footpaths. Following difficulties with planning and gaining permission for access it wasn’t until 1960 before it was opened. At 270 miles it is no longer the longest of the official walks but is still considered to be one of the toughest. It starts at Edale, 7 miles west of Sheffield, traversing the backbone of England; a section of Hadrian’s Wall; through the border forests; across the Cheviots before finishing at Kirk Yetholme, just within the Scottish border.