Celebrating 75 Years of the 1949 National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act

Walking tags

16th December 2024

by Peter Morris, North Downs Way National Trail Manager

December 16th 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of the 1949 National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act. A landmark piece of legislation that shaped the modern landscape of public access to the UK’s natural beauty.

In the aftermath of World War Two it was widely recognised that the public needed access to our incredible outdoor spaces and began creating National Parks, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (now National Landscapes) and National Trails, which typically run through our finest landscapes. The Act recognised the importance of natural spaces not only for wildlife and conservation but also for public enjoyment and well-being.

The Act gives power to what is now Natural England to establish and maintain our National Trails. The North Downs Way continue to be funded and supported by Natural England, in order to maintain the trail which runs through the Kent Downs and Surrey Hills National Landscapes. The 1949 Act is really where it all began for the National Trails and National Landscapes and without it the Kent Downs and Surrey Hills National Landscape teams would not be here today. Over 300 million people use National Trails every year to access National Parks and National Landscapes and we’re joining them today to celebrate this milestone, reflect on everything we’ve achieved to-date and think about what we want for the next 75 years.

 The North Downs Way: A Legacy of the 1949 Act

Among the 16 remarkable National Trails located in England and Wales, the North Downs Way stands out as a direct beneficiary of the Act’s legacy. Stretching across 153 miles (245km) the trail passes through two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty – Kent Downs National Landscape and Surrey Hills National Landscape.  

Walking along the North Downs Way is like taking a journey through history. Pass by ancient churches, cathedrals and archbishops’ palaces, follow in the footsteps of pilgrims along parts of the trail and discover Neolithic sites, Roman and Napoleonic forts, medieval castles and World War II fortifications.  

What the North Downs Way means to you

‘Exploring the North Downs Way National Trail has been a journey of discovery and connection, especially during the Covid lockdowns when I began exploring the trail near me in Folkestone. To my delight, I found that some of my close friends had been doing the same, and after lockdown, we made a pact to walk the entire trail before turning 40. We’re tackling it in sections, a couple each year, and so far, we’ve completed 7 out of the 15. We’re also committed to trying to complete each section using public transport, adding a sense of adventure to our journey. Our highlights of the trail so far have been the chalk hill figures we’ve spotted and learnt about in Wye, Folkestone and Lenham, plus all the brilliant pubs we’ve visited for lunch – every hike should have a beef pie stop, according to my husband! With 5 years left, we’re excited to continue this shared adventure, knowing that each step brings us closer to our goal.’ Holly Kanter, Horticulturist and Kent Downs National Landscape Alumn. 

‘I have been connected to the North Downs Way for about 50 years. I was a North Downs Way volunteer warden for most of that time, covering several sections. During that time I walked various sections checking the trails’ condition, reporting any problems and way marking, as well as leading walks in the area too. During one walk in Kings Wood, I came across a group of people standing around a memorial stone. It transpired that this was the marker for the inception of the North Downs Way and had only just been put in place. As I was a volunteer warden, I had my picture taken and it even appeared in the local paper! I’ve also been involved in photoshoots alongside the sculptures of the trail.  I can vividly remember the session in Chartham Kezia Cole’s ‘Feel Our Voice’ artwork, where I had to walk up the hill to the sculpture several times. If anyone knows that area, the hill is often called heart attack hill as it’s very steep!’ Chris Anthony, IT Consultant and North Downs Way Volunteer Warden.

‘The best memories are of very happy walkers, from many parts of the world, telling us how much they loved the variety of the landscape, and letting us know what birds, reptiles and mammals they had encountered on the way!  There seem to be a range of reasons for walking the North Downs Way – some a steady break away from the pressures of a busy life; some spiritual (particularly those who have the ‘add on’ of the St Swithun’s Way starting from Winchester) or walking Rochester to Canterbury; some for purposes of reflection.  There is a great interest in the historical sites – from the Neolithic remains; the association with the Roman invasions and departures; the medieval cathedrals and castles; and the later literary associations with William Cobbett, Jane Austen, Charles Dickens and Joseph Conrad.   Many walkers have remarked on how helpful and friendly local people are to walkers along the full extent of the trail, but also how it is possible to find peace and solitude but with the opportunity for good food and a drink in a friendly local inn at the day’s end.’ Mandy Bright, Director at Walk Awhile.

‘In 2021 my boys gave me 12 envelopes for my 60th birthday. Inside each months envelope there was a walking challenge to complete. So in July I embarked on walking 60 miles of the North Downs Way in 24 hours. I left the house at 3:20am bedecked in a headtorch and lights, my aim was to get to the cliffs at Capel to catch the sunrise. The route up to Kings Wood was tough and the plan was to reach Wye before all light was lost. Badgers and rabbits crossed my path, as well as donkeys and surprisingly a lone reindeer. This challenge was absolutely worth doing, despite the numerous boot and sock changes throughout the day!’ Joanna Tolhurst.

The 75th anniversary of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act is not only a celebration of the achievements of the past but a call to action for the future. As we walk the historic paths like the North Downs Way, we are reminded of the importance of access, preservation, and stewardship of our natural spaces. The Act laid the foundation for the enjoyment and protection of our countryside, and as we look ahead, we must continue to honor that legacy, ensuring that our natural treasures remain accessible, inclusive, welcoming and protected for generations to come.

Let’s celebrate the progress made since 1949—and the endless opportunities for discovery, connection, and conservation that lie ahead.

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