Our routes are graded into 4 categories based on the terrain, gradient, path widths and field furniture. We hope this will help you identify the routes that are most suitable for your abilities and interests.

This is based on similar grading systems used by the Disabled Ramblers Association, Devon Wildlife Trust and broadly fit the zones outlined in the “Outdoor Accessibility Guidance’ Nature England publication. These definitions are for guidance only and cannot be regarded at definitive.

If however you don’t find these categories useful then all the information is provided for you to decide yourself.

Category 1 / Easier Walk

• Surfaces: Primarily high-quality, all-weather tarmac or crushed stone. Mostly smooth; any grass or earth sections are short and manageable.
• Path Width: Minimum width of 1.5m with cross slopes no steeper than 1 in 12.
• Elevation: Generally flat with rare steep sections; total ascent is capped at 30 meters.

Category 2 / Moderate Walk

• Surfaces: Generally good, though expect longer sections of beaten earth, grass, or stony paths
• Path Width: Typically 1.5m, narrowing to 1.2m in certain spots.
• Gradients: Cross slopes up to 1 in 8 and hills reaching a maximum steepness of 1 in 10. Total ascent capped at 150 meters.
• Obstacles: Potential for small steps or ruts up to 40mm and occasional soft ground (usually avoidable).

Category 3/ More challenging

• Surface: Extensive rough sections featuring large stones or ruts (up to 100mm) and potential wet patches.
• Gradients: Long, demanding hills with steepness reaching 1 in 5 (occasionally 1 in 4). Total daily ascent of up to 300 meters. Obstacles: Steps up to 100mm and steep cambers that may exceed 1 in 8.

Category 4/ Most demanding

• Surface: Very challenging and falls outside standard accessibility criteria (1-3 catergories).
• Obstacles: Difficult terrain with significant obstacles and demanding surface conditions.
• Gradients: Includes extreme, steep inclines.
• Requirements: Highest difficulty level; necessitates advanced planning, specialised preparation, or specific equipment.