As the worst of the Covid pandemic draws to a close, what better time to encourage people to get out into the countryside for a walk? As a resident of northwest London, I have a special advantage in doing that - an urban rail network that reaches right into the heart of the countryside.

Largely neglected by walkers because of its proximity to National Parks both north and south, the scenery of the northern part of the ‘Elenydd’, the Cambrian Mountains of mid-Wales, is nevertheless wild and stunning.

Like many walkers, I have a list: the hills I have to climb, the places to visit next. But in between these longer trips, a stroll from the front door is a good way to pass the time. Especially when it’s not my own front door.