A beloved walking route in Somerset has been crowned Britain’s favourite path.
A section of the Strawberry Line path near Winscombe, part of a traffic-free route from the Mendip Hills to the coast, has won the Britain’s Favourite Path 2026 title in a public vote organised by the Ramblers, Britain’s walking charity.
Supported by Postcode Lottery players, the annual competition celebrates the importance, beauty and diversity of Britain’s paths.
Amanda Jane Baldwin, who nominated the path, said: "The Strawberry Line is on my doorstep, my car isn't needed for this stunning walk.
"I moved to Winscombe, North Somerset over seven years ago and this path has been trod by myself more times than I can count.
"It's accessible in all weathers, it goes on for miles, it's an absolute pleasure to walk on, it's beautiful and I appreciate the nature all around me whilst on the path.
"It is maintained by volunteers which makes it all the more precious to walk on.”
Ms Baldwin has won £250 worth of Cotswold Outdoor vouchers for her nomination.
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The Strawberry Line follows the route of a former Great Western Railway branch line that transported locally grown strawberries until the late 1960s.
Thanks to the efforts of volunteers, the disused railway has been transformed into a 20+ mile-long path for walkers, cyclists, wheelchair users, mobility scooter users, and, in some sections, equestrians.
Matt Johnson, presenter, mental health advocate and Postcode Lottery ambassador, said: "Congratulations to The Strawberry Line on being crowned Britain's Favourite Path 2026.
"It's brilliant to see a path that means so much to its local community being recognised in this way.
"I hope this inspires even more people to lace up their walking shoes, discover somewhere new and experience the physical and mental benefits that come from simply going for a walk."
Now in its third year, Britain’s Favourite Path was launched by the Ramblers to celebrate the importance, beauty and diversity of the nation’s paths.
Rachel Mulrenan, campaigns manager at the Ramblers, said: "Local paths are lifelines.
"They connect people with green space, fresh air, and better mental and physical health.
"The Strawberry Line Path is a fantastic example of how local communities can benefit from paths being opened up and expanded."
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