Historic Footpaths with Nicholas Crane

The Octagon Chapel, Norwich, NR3 1BN
Thursday 16th July 2026
In this talk, presenter and author Nicholas Crane explores the hidden history of Britain's coast-to-coast web, from prehistoric routeways walked by European migrants 12,000 years ago to pilgrim ways and coffin roads, turnpikes, towpaths and city pavements.

About the speaker
Nicholas Crane is an author, geographer, cartographic expert and recipient of the Royal Scottish Geographical Society’s Mungo Park Medal in recognition of outstanding contributions to geographical knowledge, and of the Royal Geographical Society’s Ness Award for popularising geography and the understanding of Britain. Nick has presented many acclaimed TV series’ on BBC2, among them Map Man, Great British Journeys, Town, Britannia and Coast. He has also been the lead presenter on more than 80 BBC films.

His new book The Path More Travelled (W&N, 2026), explores the hidden history of this coast-to-coast web, from prehistoric routeways walked by European migrants 12,000 years ago to pilgrim ways and coffin roads, turnpikes, towpaths and city pavements. We discover how land-grabbing Norman barons began the enclosure of our countryside, and how our beloved national parks and long-distance trails emerged from the ashes of two world wars.

Please note: refunds are only available if a show is cancelled or rescheduled, unfortunately booking fees are non-refundable.