Walking Through The Decades - 80 Years of Discovering the World on Foot

As we celebrate 80 extraordinary years at Ramble Worldwide, we're taking a step back in time to discover how this popular pastime has evolved throughout the decades. From humble post-war beginnings to today's expertly guided global adventures, the journey has been as remarkable as the destinations themselves. 

Join us as we reminisce on walks gone by, exploring everything from functional fashion and favourite destinations to walking with purpose and the ways we capture each journey, covering each and every stride from 1946 to present day. 

Despite many developments along the way, one thing will always remain the same: walking holidays offer something truly special. A slower, richer way to experience the world.

1940s to 1950s: Setting Off 

In the years following the Second World War, a simple desire was taking root across Britain: the longing to get outdoors and breathe freely again. Walking clubs and rambling groups sprang up in towns and villages, offering companionship, fresh air, and a sense of purpose after years of hardship. Routes were often informal, passed along by word of mouth. A farmer's field here, a canal towpath there, a scramble over a stile to reach a hilltop with a view that made it all worthwhile. 

It was in this spirit that our story began. On 28 March 1946, Ramblers Association Services was founded by Ernest Welsman, originally set up as the commercial wing of the Ramblers Association to sell books, provide office services, and organise walking holidays at home and abroad. From a small office at 20 Buckingham Street, just off the Strand in London, something remarkable was taking shape. 

By 1947, the company's first holiday brochure had been produced. Six hundred clients travelled on 40 holiday departures that very first season, and by December, the tour operations were already in profit. Interestingly, some of those early tours had an upper age limit of just 25 or 30. Walking holidays were very much a young person's pursuit in those early days. 

In 1953, a chapter began that continues to this day: Hassness House at Buttermere in the Lake District was leased from the National Parks Board, giving walkers a stunning base in one of Britain's most beloved landscapes. It would remain a cherished part of the story for decades to come.

1960s to 1970s: Venturing Further Afield 

As post-war austerity eased and overseas travel became more accessible, walkers began to set their sights beyond British shores. The footpaths of France, the sun-soaked trails of Spain, and the dramatic peaks of Austria and Switzerland beckoned. Package holidays were booming, but for those who preferred to explore at a slower pace, walking holidays offered something altogether different: a chance to truly connect with a landscape rather than simply pass through it. 

These decades also saw the formalisation of long-distance footpaths in the UK. The Pennine Way opened in 1965, and suddenly the idea of a multi-day walking adventure captured the public imagination in a whole new way. 

The walking holiday industry was growing up too. By 1956, flight-inclusive packages had arrived on the scene, opening up Mediterranean resorts and mountain centres in Western Europe. Before then, all travel to overseas walking destinations had been by ferry and rail. The sixties and seventies saw the infrastructure and professionalism of walking holidays develop rapidly, with dedicated offices, growing teams of leaders, and an ever-expanding programme of destinations. 

By 1974, what had started as Ramblers Association Services had evolved into Ramblers Holidays, a name that would become synonymous with walking holidays for the next three decades.

1980s to 1990s: A World of Walking

The eighties and nineties were transformative decades for walking holidays. Structured group tours with knowledgeable leaders became the norm, and destinations stretched far beyond Europe. Walkers found themselves trekking through the foothills of the Himalayas, exploring the ancient landscapes of Jordan, and discovering the vibrant cultures of South America. What had once been a gentle weekend ramble in the countryside had become a passport to the world.

This era also saw walking holidays develop a real sense of structure and professionalism. Expert leaders, carefully planned itineraries, and quality accommodation became hallmarks of a well-organised walking trip. Leaders' Conferences brought guides together to share knowledge and raise standards, and the introduction of the Package Travel Regulations in 1992 gave travellers greater protection and peace of mind.

The nineties brought fresh ideas too. The rise of budget airlines changed the travel landscape, but far from threatening walking holidays, it opened up new possibilities. More destinations became accessible, and the appetite for active, outdoor holidays continued to grow.

2000s to 2010s: Smaller Groups, Richer Experiences

The turn of the millennium brought a shift in what travellers were looking for. The emphasis moved from ticking off destinations to genuinely experiencing them. Smaller group sizes meant more intimate, personalised adventures. Curated itineraries began to weave in local culture, cuisine, and history alongside the walking itself.

In 1999, the company launched its first website, opening up a whole new way for walkers to discover and book their holidays. By 2000, the company was licensed to carry over 17,000 passengers, representing 28% of the overseas walking holiday market. The walking holiday had well and truly come of age.

Innovation continued through the 2000s and 2010s. Cruise and Walk holidays launched in 2006, combining the joy of walking with the adventure of exploring by sea. Self-guided walking holidays grew in popularity, offering the freedom to explore independently with expertly planned routes, quality accommodation, and luggage transfers all taken care of.

The 2010s also saw a growing emphasis on gentler, more immersive styles of walking. The Adagio brand launched in 2012, offering a perfect blend of guided walking and sightseeing with shorter walks, quality stays, and a relaxed pace of discovery.

2020s and Beyond: A New Chapter

The early 2020s tested the travel industry like never before. The global pandemic brought an unprecedented pause, but it also reinforced something walkers had always known: time spent outdoors, in nature, moving at a human pace, is one of the most valuable things we can do for ourselves.

When travel resumed in 2022, the desire to get out and walk was stronger than ever. In 2023, the company embarked on an exciting new chapter, rebranding under a single name: Ramble Worldwide. Four holiday Collections were introduced, each designed to cater to different styles of walking and discovery: Classic, Discover, Adagio, and Self-Guided.

Today, we offer over 300 meticulously planned itineraries across six continents, each crafted by experts who know the terrain intimately. From those 600 clients on 40 departures in 1947, it's been quite the journey.

If there's one thing that's changed almost as much as the destinations, it's what we wear on our feet (and everywhere else, for that matter). 

1940s to 1950s: Built to Last

In the early days, walking attire was all about durability. Heavy leather boots, thick wool socks, tweed jackets, and waxed cotton were the order of the day. Comfort wasn't exactly the priority. If your boots kept the rain out and your woollen layers kept you warm (even when soaking wet), you were doing well. Blisters were simply part of the experience, and a stout pair of hobnailed boots was considered the height of walking sophistication. 

1960s to 1970s: A Lighter Step 

The first signs of change arrived with lighter materials and more practical designs. Nylon rucksacks replaced heavy canvas packs, and walking boots began to feature rubber soles that actually gripped. Bright colours started to make an appearance too, though the classic greens and browns of the countryside still dominated. The cagoule became a staple of every walker's kit, even if it did make you feel like you were wearing a bin bag in the rain. 

1980s to 1990s: The Rise of Technical Gear

This was the era when outdoor brands truly came into their own. Gore-Tex revolutionised waterproofing, fleece replaced heavy woollen jumpers, and walking boots became lighter without sacrificing support. Suddenly, you could stay dry, warm, and comfortable all at once. Walking socks became a thing in their own right, and the concept of a layering system entered the vocabulary of every serious rambler. 

2000s: Performance Meets Comfort

Breathable fabrics improved dramatically, and walking gear became something you could wear all day without feeling weighed down. Merino wool made a comeback as a base layer, wicking moisture away while keeping you warm. Walking poles, once the preserve of serious mountaineers, became a common sight on trails everywhere. The gap between "outdoor gear" and "everyday clothing" began to narrow, and technical fabrics found their way into jackets, trousers, and even socks that you might happily wear off the trail too. 

Today: Lightweight, Sustainable, and Stylish

Modern walking gear is a world away from those heavy leather boots of the 1940s. High-performance fabrics are lighter and more breathable than ever, with many brands now prioritising sustainability through recycled materials and responsible manufacturing. You can find a walking jacket that weighs less than a paperback book and keeps you dry in a downpour. And yes, it's finally possible to look good on a trail too. 

Whatever your style, the one constant through every decade? A good pair of walking boots remains the most important investment you'll ever make.

1940s to 1960s: Trust the Map (and Your Instincts) 

For the first few decades of walking holidays, navigation meant one thing: an Ordnance Survey map and the ability to read it. Contour lines, grid references, and a reliable compass were essential skills. Walkers relied on local knowledge, word of mouth, and the occasional handwritten note to find their way. Getting slightly lost was almost a rite of passage, and some would argue it led to the best discoveries. In those early days, all travel to overseas walking destinations was by ferry and rail, so even getting to your starting point was an adventure in itself. Once on the ground, a well-read map and a sense of direction were your most trusted companions. 

1970s to 1990s: Guidebooks and Waymarkers 

As walking became more popular, so did the infrastructure to support it. Guidebooks offered detailed route descriptions, and trail waymarkers began to appear along established paths. Long-distance routes were signed and maintained, making multi-day walks more accessible to a wider audience. The humble guidebook became a treasured companion, often dog-eared and tea-stained by the end of a trip. 

2000s: Enter the GPS 

The early 2000s saw GPS devices begin to appear in the hands of walkers. Bulky, expensive, and sometimes unreliable, they were a novelty at first. But the technology improved rapidly, and by the end of the decade, handheld GPS units had become a valuable backup to the traditional map and compass. 

2010s: There's an App for That 

Smartphones changed everything. Mapping apps put detailed route information, elevation profiles, and real-time tracking in your pocket. You could plan a walk from your sofa, download the route, and follow it step by step. Photography, weather forecasts, and emergency communication all arrived in one handy device. 

Today: Seamless Navigation, Expert Guidance 

With satellite mapping, offline trail apps, and real-time weather updates, getting from A to B has never been easier. But here's what hasn't changed: there is still nothing quite like walking with an expert leader who truly knows the terrain. Someone who can point out the hidden waterfall just off the path, share the story behind a crumbling ruin, or guide you to the perfect viewpoint at exactly the right time of day. 

At Ramble Worldwide, our team of 250 carefully selected, highly trained walk leaders bring valuable insight and knowledge to every holiday. Technology is a wonderful tool, but local expertise and a passion for the trail? That's something no app can replace. 

For those who prefer to navigate independently, our Self-Guided Collection provides expertly tailored routes with maps, notes, and 24-hour telephone support, combining the best of modern planning with the freedom to explore at your own pace.

1940s to 1970s: Good for the Body 

In the post-war years, the benefits of walking were understood in straightforward physical terms. Fresh air, exercise, and time spent outdoors were considered essential for good health. Doctors routinely prescribed country walks, and the idea that a brisk ramble could cure most ailments was firmly rooted in the national consciousness. Walking was good for you. It was as simple as that. Those early walking holidays were born from exactly this spirit. Getting people outdoors, moving through beautiful landscapes, and enjoying the physical rewards of a good day's walk. 

1980s to 1990s: The Fitness Boom 

The fitness revolution of the 1980s brought a new dimension to walking. As jogging, aerobics, and gym culture exploded, walking found its place as an accessible, low-impact form of exercise that almost anyone could enjoy. Outdoor activity holidays surged in popularity, and walking began to be seen not just as a pleasant pastime but as a genuine form of fitness. 

2000s: Finding Balance 

As the pace of modern life accelerated, walking holidays became something more: a way to step back, slow down, and reconnect. The concept of work-life balance entered the mainstream, and more people began seeking holidays that offered genuine rest and rejuvenation rather than simply a change of scenery. A week spent walking through beautiful landscapes, free from screens and schedules, became a powerful antidote to the stresses of daily life. 

2010s: Mindfulness on the Move 

The spotlight on mental health transformed our understanding of why walking matters. Studies confirmed what walkers had known for decades: time spent in nature reduces stress, improves mood, and boosts creativity. Mindful walking, forest bathing, and the simple act of being present in a landscape became recognised therapeutic practices. 

At Ramble Worldwide, we've long understood this connection. Our support for organisations like Mind Over Mountains through the Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust reflects our belief that walking truly is a force for good, for both body and mind. The Trust is passionate about making the outdoors more accessible to people from all communities, granting funds to organisations that create an enduring impact on people's lives. 

Today: A Holistic Experience 

Walking holidays in 2026 are about so much more than covering a set distance. They're about nourishing yourself completely. Savouring local cuisine, forming meaningful connections with fellow travellers, immersing yourself in culture and history, and returning home feeling genuinely renewed. It's a holistic experience that feeds the soul as much as it strengthens the legs. 

Our Adagio Collection embodies this beautifully, with shorter walks, quality stays, and a relaxed discovery of the world that lets you make meaningful connections with your surroundings. Meanwhile, our Discover Collection delves deeper into heritage, cuisine, wine, wildlife, and history, offering a richer understanding of the places you visit. 

As we like to say, the world is more beautiful on foot. And we've never believed that more than we do today.

1940s to 1950s: The British Countryside 

It all began right here. The rolling hills of the Lake District, the dramatic coastlines of Cornwall, the ancient trails of the Scottish Highlands. Britain's countryside was the original walking holiday destination, and its appeal endures to this day. Our own Hassness Country House, first leased in 1953 and purchased outright in 2016, continues this proud tradition. Nestled beside Buttermere, it offers a stunning base from which to explore one of the UK's most beloved landscapes. 

In those early years, all overseas travel was by ferry and rail, so the British countryside was where most walking adventures began and ended. And what a place to start. 

1960s to 1970s: Europe Calls 

As air travel opened up and flight-inclusive packages became available from the mid-1950s onwards, walkers discovered the extraordinary variety of Europe's trails. The lavender fields of Provence, the sun-drenched paths of Andalucia, the flower-strewn meadows of the Austrian Alps, and the coastal beauty of Italy's Cinque Terre. Each destination offered its own unique character, cuisine, and culture, all waiting to be discovered one step at a time. 

The first overseas walking brochure featured Mediterranean resorts and mountain centres in Western Europe. It was the beginning of a love affair with European walking that continues to flourish today. 

1980s to 1990s: A Truly Global Adventure 

The walking holiday went worldwide. Nepal, India, South Africa, and the Americas all became part of the walking holiday landscape. Suddenly, the trails weren't just scenic, they were transformative. Walking through ancient civilisations, alongside incredible wildlife, and across landscapes that took your breath away became experiences that changed lives. 

2000s: Iconic Trails and Long-Distance Dreams 

The turn of the millennium saw a surge of interest in long-distance trails. The Camino de Santiago, the Via Francigena, the Inca Trail, and countless others captured the imaginations of walkers everywhere. These weren't just walks; they were journeys of personal significance, offering a sense of achievement and discovery that kept people coming back for more. 

Today: Hidden Gems and Bucket-List Adventures 

The modern walking holiday spans the entire globe, from hidden gems waiting to be discovered to bucket-list routes that everyone should experience at least once. At Ramble Worldwide, we offer everything from weekend breaks in the UK to unforgettable journeys in Japan, from Cruise and Walk holidays to adventures in Cuba, Vietnam, and New Zealand. 

With over 300 holidays across six continents, there really is a walk for every explorer. Browse our full range of destinations and see where your next adventure could take you.

1940s to 1970s: Postcards and Precious Negatives

In the early decades of walking holidays, memories were captured carefully and sparingly. A handful of photographs taken on a film camera, each one considered and composed because every frame counted. Postcards sent home from a local village shop, written in hurried but heartfelt scrawl. Pressed flowers tucked between the pages of a journal. These mementos were treasured precisely because there were so few of them.

1980s to 1990s: Albums and Home Videos

The arrival of affordable compact cameras and camcorders meant that walking holidays could be documented more freely. Photo albums became a post-holiday ritual: carefully arranged prints with handwritten captions beneath. Who could forget the thrill of collecting a set of developed prints from the chemist, seeing your holiday through fresh eyes for the first time?

2000s: The Digital Revolution

Digital cameras transformed everything. Suddenly, you could take hundreds of photographs without worrying about the cost of film. Memory cards replaced rolls of 24 or 36 exposures, and the immediate feedback of a digital screen meant you could capture and recapture until you got the perfect shot. Walking holidays became some of the most photographed experiences of all.

2010s: Sharing the Adventure

Social media changed the way we shared our journeys. A breathtaking vista could be posted instantly, inspiring friends and family (and perhaps a few strangers) to lace up their own boots and hit the trail. Walking holidays became visual stories, told in real time through platforms that connected walkers around the world.

Today: Real-Time Storytelling

From drone footage of sweeping coastal paths to beautifully composed smartphone photography, today's walkers are documenting their adventures in ways that would have seemed unimaginable in 1946. Video diaries, blogs, reels, and live updates mean that a walking holiday is no longer something you simply tell people about when you get home. It's something you can share as it unfolds.

And yet, for all the technology at our fingertips, some things remain wonderfully unchanged. The feeling of reaching a summit and pausing to take in the view. The sound of birdsong on a quiet trail. The warmth of sharing a meal with new friends at the end of a rewarding day's walk. These moments don't need a filter. They're perfect just as they are.

Explore our Inspiration pages to see real stories and journal entries from our walks around the world.

Eighty years is quite a milestone. From a small office off the Strand in 1946 and 600 clients in that first season, to over 300 holidays across six continents under the Ramble Worldwide name today. The journey has been extraordinary, and as we look ahead, the future of walking holidays feels brighter than ever.

Responsible travel sits at the heart of everything we do. We've always been one of the original responsible travel businesses, and our commitment to charitable giving through the Ramble Worldwide Outdoor Trust means that every step you take on holiday contributes to giving back. From supporting outdoor charities and conservation projects to partnering with organisations like National Trails UK, Mind Over Mountains, and Adaptive Grand Slam, we believe passionately that walking is a force for good.

As travellers increasingly seek meaningful, sustainable experiences, walking holidays are perfectly placed. They're low-impact by nature, deeply immersive, and endlessly rewarding. Whether you're a seasoned trekker with decades of trails behind you or someone considering your very first walking holiday, the appeal of exploring the world on foot has never been stronger.

New destinations will continue to emerge. New trails will be forged. New stories will be shared. But the essence of a walking holiday will remain exactly as it was in 1946: the simple, profound pleasure of putting one foot in front of the other, surrounded by beauty, in the company of like-minded adventurers.

We've been pioneering walking holidays for 80 years, and we can't wait to see where the next 80 take us. Wherever it is, we hope you'll be walking with us.

Explore our full range of walking holidays and discover why the world truly is more beautiful on foot.