Wayfarer's Dole

Rambles in the British Countryside

In a series of solitary journeys on foot the writer and novelist John Bainbridge explores the ethos of rambling and hiking in rural England and Scotland. On his journeys he seeks out the remaining wild places and ancient trackways, meeting vagabonds and outdoors folk along the way and follows in the footsteps of writers, poets and early travellers. This is a book for everyone who loves the British countryside and walking its long-established footpaths and bridleways. And for the armchair traveller... Wayfarer's Dole takes its title from an ancient tradition - In medieval times pilgrims travelling the road through Winchester to Canterbury would halt at the St Cross Hospital, a place of rest and refuge for those on holy journeys, and demand the Wayfarer’s Dole - small portions of ale and bread to ease the hunger and thirst incurred on their travels. Read John's other outdoor books "The Compleat Trespasser" and "Rambling - The Beginner's Bible". "This engrossing book by writer, novelist and one-time chief executive of the Dartmoor Preservation Society, John Bainbridge, explores the ethos of rambling via a series of short essays. The book takes its name from the medieval tradition of offering help to pilgrims on foot, but John’s own adventures take him deep into the moors, downs and mountains as he muses on everything from maps, roadside fires, stravaiging and the protection of our ancient footpaths. It’s a very personal but informed and intelligent journey that will resonate with inquisitive ramblers everywhere." WALK MAGAZINE.