The Outdoors Station

In this episode of The Outdoor Station, I share updates on my recent outdoor adventures and the challenges of winter home maintenance, from hedge cutting to storm repairs.  I reflect on peaceful walks with my aging dog, the beauty (and hazards) of blackthorn, and the joys of spring’s arrival. I also announce an upcoming live stream roundtable on April 1st with Ellie Berry and Robert Farrelly, wher...

Here Be Witches: Uncovering Scotland’s Wicked History within the Landscape When I set out to explore the wilds of Scotland, I’m often captivated by the rolling hills, mist-shrouded glens, and the patchwork of ancient villages that dot the land throughout the Highlands. The network of trails—like the West Highland Way, the Fife Coastal Path, and the Great Glen Way—winds through landscapes that seem...

In this special Christmas episode of "The Outdoors Station," I join my friend Andy Howell for a festive wild camping adventure in the Welsh hills, braving stormy weather to cook a full three-course Christmas dinner in a tent. In this re-edited episode we share laughter, memories, and practical tips, reflecting on the joy and healing power of spending time outdoors with loved ones.  This heartfelt...

In this final episode of our Coast to Coast series, I recount the last leg of our journey across England with Rose, Simon, and Ruth. We reflect on memorable campsites, favorite meals, and the challenges of carrying our own gear. Arriving at Robin Hood’s Bay, we celebrate quietly, sharing practical advice for future hikers and appreciating the kindness of strangers along the way. The trek was both...

So here we are on our penultimate day on the Wainwright Coast to Coast walk, sharing the challenges of overambitious planning, heavy packs, and a comical campsite booking blunder. We enjoy tranquil woodland paths, a memorable tea stop in Grosmont, and a warm welcome at Intake Farm. Simon joins us to share his well-organised accommodation reviews, highlighting the contrast with our more chaotic app...

In this special 600th episode of The Outdoors Station, marking 20 years of sharing free content and countless hours spent creating these podcasts, we celebrate not just a milestone, but a journey. I recount days 10 and 11 of our Coast to Coast walk. Battling relentless rain, strong winds, and sodden terrain, we navigate steep climbs and exposed moorland, sharing tales of flooded tents, tough ascen...

In this episode, I share my experience hiking the Wainwright Coast to Coast Trail, focusing on our stay at the welcoming Church Holme campsite at Danby Wiske. I chat with Vicky, the owner, about her thoughtful approach to hospitality and the unique charm of her site. I also reflect on the challenges of the route, including a nerve-wracking road crossing and a rainy night on the moors. Through cand...

In this episode, I recount day seven and day eight on the Wainwright Coast to Coast trail. We wake beside a stream at Rukins campsite, dodge incoming rain, and share breakfast with fellow hikers. The unpredictable weather and challenging terrain test our gear and spirits, but camaraderie and scenic beauty keep us going. En route we chat with hikers from Canada, compare trails, and reflect on foot...

In this episode, I continue my journey with Rose on day six along the Wainwright Coast to Coast trail, walking from Kirkby Stephen to Keld. We share our experiences navigating unpredictable weather, challenging terrain, and limited resupply options. Highlights include climbing to the mysterious Nine Standards, camping in Keld, and meeting fellow hikers who offer tips on gear, apps, and accommodati...

In this episode of The Outdoors Station, I share the ups and downs of days four and five on our Wainwright Coast to Coast trek. The Lake District’s steep climbs, wild camping, and unpredictable weather left us physically and mentally drained. After a tough stretch to Shap and with the pressure of ensuring we arrived at future destinations on time we decided to skip a boggy 20-mile section by taxi,...

In this episode of The Outdoors Station, I share part two of our Wainwright Coast to Coast adventure with Rose. We recount two tough days crossing the Lake District, from scrambling around Ennerdale Water’s rocky southern shore to the steep climb up Loft Beck and over to our campsite at Seatoller. The following day, we climb once again before heading down to Grasmere before tackling the ascent to...

In this episode of The Outdoors Station, I share the start of my 12-day adventure on Wainwright’s Coast to Coast trail with my walking companion, Rose. We reflect on the challenges of carrying heavier packs after a long break, meet fellow hikers like Ingrid from Holland and Don from Pittsburgh, and discuss the joys and surprises of the journey.  We talk about the trail’s changing landscapes, the c...

“Across the Sahara, through the Congo rainforest, and into the hearts of strangers—Ken & Marie pedal into the unknown. This is a story of connection, kindness, and the wild beauty of Africa.” Welcome to “Cape to Cape,” a two-part podcast that follows Kenneth Jørgensen and Marie Stoubæk on a once-in-a-lifetime bikepacking adventure. Over 518 days and 30 641 km, they pedalled from the icy North Cape...

“A 30,000 km dream begins on the icy cliffs of Norway. Join Ken & Marie as they cross the continent, climb the Atlas Mountains, and discover the joy of slow travel on the road to Africa.” Welcome to “Cape to Cape,” a two-part podcast that follows Kenneth Jørgensen and Marie Stoubæk on a once-in-a-lifetime bikepacking adventure. In 2024 over 518 days and 30 641 km, they pedalled from the icy North...

"There’s no single way to experience Scafell Pike — and that’s what makes it so magical." In this episode of "The Outdoor Station," I share my recent Coast to Coast walk with my wife before diving into a conversation with author and mountain leader Graham Uney.  We discuss his new book on 15 routes up Scafell Pike , his experiences as a hilltop assessor, and the joys and challenges of guiding in t...

Episode 590 on "The Outdoor Station" is Part Two of my conversation with guest Ryan Archer, a YouTuber and long-distance hiker, shares his experiences on the Hexatrek in France.  If you haven't listened to Part One, do go back to last weeks episode for more information on how he found out about the trek and his rapid preparation of only 3 weeks before setting out. This 3,034-kilometre trail connec...

In this episode on "The Outdoors Station," we explore Ryan Archer's adventure on the Hexatrek, a relatively new 3,034-kilometre through-hike across France. Stretching 3,034 kilometres from the forested Vosges Mountains in the northeast to the rugged Pyrenees in the south, this trail weaves through 14 of France’s most beautiful national parks , following the high mountain backbone of a country affe...

In this release from "The Outdoor Station," Bob Cartwright celebrates the podcast's 20th anniversary and the new series starting with the introduction of adventurer and writer Elise Downing. Elise discusses her new book "Walk Britain," that has just been released by Vertebrate Publishing which features 90 walking routes across England, Scotland, and Wales, all accessible by public transport.  She...

In this episode of the Outdoor Station UK podcast, I am thrilled to preview the exciting content planned for the 2025 series! I chat about a variety of upcoming interviews with authors, outdoor enthusiasts, and notable figures in the outdoor community. We'll dive into topics like outdoor literature, a Danish couple's epic cycling journey, a new long-distance route called the Hexatrek, and the fasc...

In this episode of The Outdoors Station podcast, we explore Zara Lachlan's historic solo rowing journey across the Atlantic Ocean. As the first woman and youngest person to row solo, unsupported, and non-stop from mainland Europe to mainland South America, Zara shares her experiences, challenges, and reflections. She recounts close encounters with large vessels, the beauty and solitude of the ocea...

In this episode of the Outdoor Station podcast, we celebrate our 20th year and the first podcast of 2025.  Our main guest, Zara Lachlan, is on a solo rowing journey from mainland Europe to South America. Through her audio diary entries, Zara shares her daily struggles, emotions, and observations as she rows across the Atlantic Ocean.  Despite facing challenging weather and mental hurdles, she rema...

In this podcast episode, Rose and I recount our journey from Siem Reap, Cambodia, to Ho Chi Min City, Vietnam. We share our experiences on a night bus, our early morning arrival in Phnom Penh, and our exploration of a red-light district. Despite health challenges, we navigated the chaotic traffic and assertive locals in Ho Chi Minh City.    Our initial hotel was disappointing, but we found solace...

In my latest podcast episode, we continue our exploration of Siem Reap, Cambodia, delving deeper into the captivating temples that define this historic region. I kick off the episode by recapping our previous discussions and sharing our insights, focusing on the advantages of hiring a local guide and providing additional practical tips for exploring the temple complex efficiently.  We then hear mo...

In this podcast episode, we explore the wonders of Angkor Wat through the perspectives of multiple speakers. Our guide Samart introduces the episode, setting the context for the listeners. Bob provides an in-depth analysis of Angkor Wat's architecture and historical significance, while Rose shares personal experiences and observations from their visit. Samart adds context about the temple gates an...

In this podcast episode, we recount our journey through Siem Reap, Cambodia. We began with a luxurious stay at the Sabara Angkor Hotel and Spa, followed by a lively exploration of Pub Street. Despite some travel frustrations, we found joy in visiting Apopo, where African giant pouch rats are trained to detect landmines.  Our day continued with a visit to the Made in Cambodia Market, where we admir...