Wainwright Walks

Wainwright Walks is an enthralling television series that first aired in 2007 on Acorn TV, immersing its viewers into parts of England's alluring landscapes like never before. Named after Alfred Wainwright, the renowned British fellwalker, guidebook author, and illustrator, the show faithfully brings Wainwright's incredibly detailed walking guides to life. It manages to amplify his passion for the English countryside and gives those who love the outdoors a travel show quite like no other.

What makes Wainwright Walks stand out from other travel shows is neither the Death Valley heat nor the grandeur of the Grand Canyon. Instead, it's the crisp cool air and the understated beauty of the rolling hills of the English countryside that takes center stage. Wainwright Walks acts as an adventurous homage to the picturesque and often challenging walks captured in the pen-and-ink drawings and notes of Wainwright himself, placing the focus on the Lake District and Cumbria area's natural charm. It highlights the serene and irreplaceable beauty of England's rural landscapes, peaks, and valleys, filled with quaint towns and villages that tell their rich stories.

The series's presenter, Julia Bradbury, guides the viewer through Wainwright's classic hill walks across England's Lake District. Bradbury's love for the outdoors and her infectious enthusiasm replicate Wainwright's spirit at every turn, bridging the gap between the pages of his Pictorial Guides and the hills and valleys that he so eloquently described. She carries us along the scenic paths and introduces us to the landscapes that Wainwright was so emotionally attached to, allowing us to appreciate the outdoors from our living rooms. Her vivid descriptions, along with your imagination, may even transport you to the top of Scafell Pike or on the rolling hills of the Pennines.

However, Wainwright Walks is not designed merely to function as a video guidebook to Wainwright's famous walks. Instead, it offers numerous insights into the life and works of Alfred Wainwright, presenting human-interest aspects alongside the walks which add a layer of depth to the understanding of the man behind these classic routes. Through this exploration, Wainwright's love for the Lakeland Fells and his commitment to conserving these landscapes become evident, adding more perspective to his Pictorial Guides.

With its blend of travelogue and biographical documentary, the show enriches its content by including interviews with Wainwright's friends and those he influenced. These touching moments reveal the depth of Wainwright's character, his nuanced take on life, and the inspiration he drew from the rural countryside. These interviews add a personal touch that resonates with viewers, turning Wainwright from a travel guide author into a real, relatable person.

Notably, the series is filmed in high-definition, which beautifully captures England's countryside. The stunning cinematography paired with the rich history, culture, and characters that shape each region allow the viewer to gain a comprehensive understanding of each area Bradbury adventures through. Furthermore, the commitment to fact-checking and fidelity to Wainwright's original works reigns supreme in each trek Bradbury undertakes.

Wainwright Walks more than lives up to its namesake. It's a series that celebrates Alfred Wainwright and his love for walking on England's rugged paths. Its respect for nature, the purity of the landscapes, and an honest effort to appreciate life's simpler aspects echo in each episode. While indeed low-key compared to many adrenaline-fueled adventure series, this show offers an intimate adventure in an environment that is at the same time calming and inspiring.

Ideal for the outdoor enthusiast or the armchair traveler, the unique insights provided by the Wainwright Walks series offer a new perspective on exploring the English outdoors. It captures the essence of Wainwright's works in a visual format that offers stunning views, vivid descriptions, and a reflection of one man's undying love for the great outdoors. Anyone with even a passing interest in walking, natural beauty, or exploring the English countryside will find this series a joy to watch.