Long Distance Routes

Long Distance Route (sometimes referred to as 'LDR') is an official term for maintained long-distance footpaths in Scotland that require several days to walk. Legislation to create them was passed in 1967, but the first one was not opened officially until 1980.

Routes

A typical waymark

There are currently four in total:

• West Highland Way, 95 miles (153 km), opened in 1980
• Speyside Way, 84 miles (135 km) of route including spurs; first part opened 1981; completed in 2000
• Southern Upland Way, 212 miles (341 km), opened 1984
• Great Glen Way, 73 miles (117 km), opened 2002

Each of the routes is waymarked with a hexagonal thistle symbol.

The six miles (10 km) of the Pennine Way terminating at Kirk Yetholm are in Scottish Borders, Scotland, but in the care of the Countryside Agency, and designated a National Trail.

Proposals for new LDRs originate from Scottish Natural Heritage, who make proposals to the Scottish Executive. Responsibility for creating and maintaining each LDR lies with each local authority through which a route passes, but Scottish Natural Heritage provides some of the finance and publicity.

External links

• Scottish Natural Heritage webpage on Long Distance Routes
• Ramblers Association website
• Scottish Youth Hostels Association route descriptions
• Great Glen Way accepts donations

See also

• Long-distance footpaths in the UK
• John Muir Way
• National Trail (English and Welsh equivalent)