While in lockdown, I have had the chance to explore my local area more than I ever have before and keep my exercise levels up.  As is the case with many of us, my holiday this year, where I would have been doing a road trip around Scotland with my boyfriend, has been cancelled. I would have been climbing Ben Nevis, Ben Lomond and doing lots of kayaking and exploring. 
 

I’m so lucky to live in the southwest of England in the tiny village of Crowcombe in West Somerset. I’ve spent the majority of lockdown exploring the surrounding area of the beautiful Quantock hills. I live at the foot of the hills and most days we climb to the top to see if we can spot any wild deer. We walk on average 4.2 miles a day, and often climb to Wills Neck which is the highest part of the Quantocks at 384 metres high. I find that walking has become a great way to unwind, and think about life. It has definitely made me more aware of the environment and just to appreciate life, not taking what we have for granted. 

I find that staying active should be enjoyable as well as challenging, and on every walk I like to push myself more than I ever would have. I often stop for coffee breaks while walking to enjoy the views. I’ve even hiked up the hills to watch the sunset and enjoy a cheeky beer at the top!  The perfect way to end the day well in lockdown.

Once we were allowed to travel that bit further to exercise it felt like a holiday! We began to move a little closer to the coastal paths of the south west and explore Exmoor National park, climbing to the highest point of the park which is Dunkery Beacon at 520 metres high.

Kayaking has also become a hobby that I have been enjoying over the past year. As I have my own, I did venture out a couple of times while the weather has been great to enjoy a paddle in the lakes and the local canals - topping up my tan!

My most recent walk while in lockdown was a 14.6 mile coastal walk from Minehead to Lilstock Beach. This was a walk I’ve wanted to do for some time, so this was a huge achievement for me.