Hello Toggers!
Spooky strolls!
Tomorrow is Halloween – a night of fancy dress, lanterns, and a fair bit of chocolate – but its roots are much older, and much closer to home than you might think (sorry, our American friends!).
The Celtic festival of Samhain marked the end of the summer harvest and the start of winter. It was a time when the Celts believed that the edges of the worlds of the living and the dead overlapped, allowing the spirits to return to the living world for a short time. The carved pumpkins that will adorn many a doorstep tomorrow are based on the old Irish custom of carving faces into turnips to scare away any evil spirits that may come lurking.
For those of you who like a scare, check out this map on The Outdoor Guide for spooky locations across all of Great Britain.
A Highland fling
Our walk this week takes us to the Highlands of Scotland and a lovely trail in Glencoe, walking amongst a stunning forest of towering redwoods. The Glencoe Lochan Trail is a circular walk on clearly marked paths.
A short distance away is the Ballachulish Hotel. Dating back to 1877, this is the perfect base for exploring the beauty of the Highlands and Glencoe.
Are you ready for a story?
If you’re quick, you can catch the last few days of the 25th Scottish Annual Storytelling Festival that’s taking place in Edinburgh and other venues across Scotland. It’s an opportunity to listen and share stories, songs and myths
Four Things For You
Last chance – competition closes tomorrow!
Fancy winning a walking and wellness bundle?We’ve teamed up with Healthy Back Bag to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a brilliant 20-litre crossbody backpack – perfect for hiking, travel, and everyday exploring – plus a signed copy of my Sunday Times Bestseller Hack Yourself Healthy. Packed with practical wellness tips and nature-inspired hacks, it’s a must-read for anyone looking to feel better, one step at a time. You need to be quick though – entries close at 11.59pm tomorrow (Friday 31st October). Follow the link below and you could be getting a treat this Halloween!
Bradders Bonus!
Every step counts! Take part in the TOG Foundation trundl! This half-term, I’d love you to join me, our Ambassador Gemma Hunt and the team at The Outdoor Guide Foundation for a very special walking challenge with our friends at trundl!
trundl is the walking app that turns your miles into money for good causes, and from now until 9th November, every step you take can help us fund 10 full sets of Waterproofs & Wellies for one state primary school.
It’s so simple:
- Download the trundl app
- Join the TOG Foundation trundl
- Enjoy a FREE 21-day trial – no subscription needed!
- Walk, wander and explore knowing your steps are helping children enjoy the outdoors, whatever the weather.
Together, we’re aiming to raise £350 to kit out one school, and every mile brings us closer. So grab your boots, get outside, and let’s make this half-term a walk to remember. And don’t forget to tag TOG in your photos on Facebook and Instagram. I’d love to see your family adventures!
