Footpaths. The ability to take an OS map and construct a walk by joining up the green (1:25000) or red (1:50000) dashed lines. Scotland has “open access” but the absence of marked rights-of-way means that you can’t tell from the map whether a path is private.
St George’s flags fluttering from cars. And the general excitement of being part of a World Cup.
Food culture. OK, we have just been to Ludlow, one of the foodie capitals of the UK, but I like markets with fresh veg, local cheeses, locally farmed meats, local strawberries, bakeries with interesting buns and fresh, crumbly croissants. Not to mention the choice of restaurants and pubs.
Weather. It’s always 5° warmer down south, and it doesn’t rain as much!
Rural churches. They always seem to be open. Cool, calm, quiet, welcoming spaces that punctuate a walk perfectly.
