Love Your TPT – Flat? Maybe. Boring? Absolutely Not. 

When we launched our #LoveYourTPT campaign on 1st February, we didn’t expect one small comment to strike such a chord. Someone described the Trans Pennine Trail as “flat and boring” — and if we’re honest, that one really hit a nerve. 

Here at TPT HQ, we have a deep love for the Trail. Yes, we’ll happily admit it’s “a flat route with a big hill in the middle”, but boring? Not a chance. So instead of getting defensive, we thought: let’s ask the question. Are we biased, or do others feel the same way?

The response we received was nothing short of phenomenal. 

What’s been truly humbling is the sheer variety of people who got involved — walkers, cyclists, dog walkers, horse riders, mobility scooter users — all sharing their own experiences of the Trail. Many of the comments echoed similar themes, but each from a different perspective, and the photos that people shared so generously really brought those stories to life. 

So, is the TPT boring? Here’s what some of you had to say… 

For many, the Trail is part of everyday life. Having direct access means daily dog walks, familiar views that never quite look the same twice, and the simple joy of being outdoors. Others celebrated the variety — from wildlife and changing seasons, to heritage features, canal restorations and big open landscapes. 

Several people pointed out that “flat” isn’t a bad thing at all. In fact, for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users, families with pushchairs and young children, and those who need accessible routes, flat sections can be the difference between getting out or staying in. That perspective is incredibly important and a reminder of why the TPT being accessible matters so much. 

We also loved hearing from cyclists who tackled the Trail end to end — including trips over Woodhead Pass (definitely not flat!) — and from those who enjoy linking the TPT into other routes, stopping off at favourite cafés, heritage sites and viewpoints along the way. 

Nature lovers reminded us that if you slow down and really look (and listen), the Trail is anything but dull. Birds, wildlife, habitats, and everchanging scenery all featured heavily in your comments. One message summed it up perfectly: open your eyes and open your ears — there’s always something happening. 

That said, we want to be transparent. Not everyone agreed. 

Some people did describe parts of the Trail as flat, muddy, or less enjoyable in winter. Others said they use it because it’s local rather than because it’s their favourite route. One comment compared the TPT to Marmite — you either love it or you hate it — and while that made us smile, it also gave us pause for thought. 

But here’s how we see it. 

We’d rather the Trail be thought of as a ‘Trail for everyone’. The TPT isn’t designed for one single type of user, and that does make things trickier to get right all of the time. But it’s also what sets us apart. Heritage, culture, accessibility, biodiversity, community, safety, variety — the TPT offers a bit of everything. 

It’s a green corridor running through bustling cities, quiet towns and open countryside, giving people access to nature right on their doorstep. And while we’ll never claim it’s perfect, we’re proud of what it is and who it’s for. 

We hope this is just the beginning of our #LoveYourTPT campaign. Thank you to everyone who took the time to comment, share photos, and tell their story. Keep them coming — we love hearing what the Trail means to you. 

Hannah | TPT Senior Development Officer
Date: 13th February, 2026

         
Mandy Loach                Hannah Beaumont     Robert Drummond