Days Out - Shop till you drop

Urban Walks

We all know that one of the favourite past times in this country is walking in the countryside, but there’s a growing trend emerging that is offering people an alternative to traditional walks through villages and fields, and plonking them into the city to explore the oft-forgotten treasures on our doorstep. Of course, in between bouts of bingo, here at Teabreak we’ve donned the comfy shoes and made haste to bring you a guide to the best urban walks from across the country. So next time you nip into town to spend those bingo winnings on some new threads, why not have a little wander beforehand?

Edinburgh

We start up in Scotland, and anybody who has been to Edinburgh will know that it’s packed with great landmarks and picturesque cityscapes. This makes Edinburgh a perfect place for street-based walking. You’ll encounter contrasting sights as you make your way around the city, from the Old Town with the historic Royal Mile dominated by Edinburgh Castle to Georgian developments of the New Town. A haven for ramblers of all ages, the city also has a network of off-road routes converted from disused railways, coastal walks along the firth of Forth and the canalside. Some beautiful walks on offer then, but it should be noted that as the city is set amongst extinct volcanoes, there are some steep climbs and hills. More information on walking in Edinburgh can be found through the Tourist Information Centre.

Liverpool

This year’s European City of Culture status means that a lot of money and regeneration has gone into making Liverpool a great place for an urban walk. For some inspiring views of the river Mersey and the Irish Sea, why not take a trek around the Wirral Coast â“ its a bit of a longer walk at roughly 15 miles, but great if you have some time to kill. For the sea-faring amongst you, a ferry from Seacombe lets you follow the sea wall from New Brighton to West Kirby, whilst Eastham Country Park is another great place to while away a few hours. More information on walking in Liverpool can be found through the Tourist Information Centre.

Norwich

The Norwich Scenic Walk, which takes you right through the heart of the city, has been developed to take walkers past the best-know sites and historic features. If you have a couple of hours to while away bingo buddies, why not start at the 15th-century Guildhall. From there you can take in the Norman Cathedral and Castle, before laying eyes on the picturesque cobble stones of Elm Hill. By now you’ll have built up a bit of a thirst eh? You’ll be glad to hear that the Scenic Walk passes along the banks of the River Wensum and takes you right past one of the oldest pubs in England - what good fortune! The Tourist Information Office will give you information on the Scenic Walk and other walks in the city.

Bristol

Another city keen to cater for the needs of urban walkers, Bristol City Council and other bodies have put together the City Centre Urban Design Trail. A particular highlight on this tour is the Floating Harbour, so called because the water level remains the same despite a high or low tide on the River Avon. You’ll also clock Bristol’s other famous landmarks including the Cathedral and the Nails. Some parts of the trail, designed by renowned local architect Richard Guise, give way to views of the surrounding hills â“ so you can get a real sense of contrast between the countryside and medieval and nineteenth century architecture. Bristol’s Tourist Information centre has info on this Trail and other walks in and around the city.

Sheffield

With over 200 parks and woodlands, as well as local sights including the award-winning Winter Gardens and Peace Gardens, Sheffield is currently in the process of reinventing itself as a greener, leaner city, whilst retaining its industrial heritage. If you want to go crazy, the City Council has produced a list of open spaces and walks all across the city, ranging from inner city parks, the Sheffield Canal, part of the Trans Pennine Trail (a lot of the city is within the Peak District don’t ya know!) and the Five Weirs Walk. Plenty of opportunities to stretch those legs after a bingo session! For more information on walking in Sheffield visit the Tourist Information site.

Well bingo buddies, that’s more city walking than you can shake a stick at. Urban walks are a great way to take in the sights, clear the mind and think about those bingo tactics. If you’re looking for great online bingo action, we’ve got it in spades. Get playing now for your chance to win big.