The Midlands from Worcester to Stratford-upon-Avon via Boscobel (175 miles). One of the best known stories in British history is that of the escape of Charles ll after the Battle of Worcester in 1651. For six exciting weeks, and hotly pursued by the parliamentary forces under Oliver Cromwell, he travelled first north through what is now the Black Country, then south through the Cotswolds and the Mendips to the South Coast, and finally along the South Downs to Shoreham where he made his escape to France. Loyally supported by his followers, many at great risk to their own lives, he was given shelter in places both great and humble, many of which still exist today - including the famous Boscobel oak tree.

Trevor Antill has now designed this long distance walk which closely follows the route taken by Charles and enables you to visit many places, maybe only previously known to you through the history books, and also takes you through some of the finest scenery in western and southern England.

In this, the first of three books, the route follows what was probably the most hazardous part of the King's route, from the historic city of Worcester to Shakespeare's Stratford-on-Avon. The guide gives detailed route instructions together with sketch maps and facinating facts about the King's journey and the places he visited.

The Cotswolds, the Mendips and the sea from Stratford-upon-Avon to Charmouth (210 miles). In the second part of this long distance path following the extraordinary journey of Charles ll during his escape to France after the battle of Worcester, the route passes through some of the most beautiful areas of southern England.

The main towns and villages along this section of the route are Chipping Campden, Moreton-in-Marsh, Stow-on-the-wold, Northleach, Cirencester, Tetbury, Chipping Sodbury, Wick, Keynsham, Abbots Leigh, Winford, Compton Martin, Wells, Castle Cary, South Cadbury, Ham Hill, Crewkerne, Hawkchurch and Charmouth.

The route is clearly described throughout with accompanying sketch maps and commentary on the events of the King's journey and the places he stayed. A remarkable walk, with a remarkable theme to it.

The South Coast and the South Downs from Charmouth to Shoreham (225 miles). This guide describes the last part of the long distance path tracing the epic journey of Charles ll after the Battle of Worcester. After six exciting and exhausting weeks he finally found a ship at Shoreham from where he sailed to the Continent and safety. The route should not be as stressful for the modern walker, passing as it does through so much beautiful countryside, and enjoyment of the scenery is enhanced by the story of the King in whose footsteps one follows.

The main towns and villages along the route are Bridport, Broadwindsor, Winyard's Gap, East Coker, trent, Charlton Horethorne, Wincanton, Mere, Hindon, Great Wishford, Middle Winterslow, Mottisfont, Hursley, Owlesbury, Warnford, Hambleton, West Dean, Houghton, Findon, Brighton and Shoreham.

The route is fully described in detail with accommpanying sketch maps and background information about the King's adventures and the places he visited. A long but rewarding journey, and one which, like King Charles ll, you will never forget.