Walking in the UK is more than a way of getting around. The rules about what is private property, and what must be kept with access, and 'The Commons'. They have historic use patterns that go back to before Europeans invaded the ‘New World.’
Words like ‘foot path’ ‘access’ and ‘right of way’ have a slightly different meaning in the UK. No Trespass signs, ubiquitous in the US, are almost non existent there. You are expected to know where you are not allowed, and respect it. You are also responsible for your own safety, unlike where everything is expected to be kept safe.
Wikipedia has a good discussion of types of public trails. One of the groups working to keep access to paths is the Open Spaces Society.
Distance: Do
not over extend yourself, especially when traveling. Know your own
capacity, and head
back when you are half used up. Your companions
may encourage you further, or may constantly check that you are OK,
or ask if you need to go back. Find ways of letting them know you
will head back when you need to, or when the going is too rough. When
walking with people that are more energetic than you, encourage them
to forge ahead, they can catch up to you on the way back.
What the Books Describe: The UK version of a foot path may be anything from a paved trail to an arrow pointing across a field full of sheep. If you are using a book, or a local person, you will need to learn to interpret their definitions of “easy foot path.”
Gates: Anywhere
from a new, free swinging gate, to a piece of fence tied to the next
section of fence
They might be rickety and you will need to be
careful that it does not disintegrate as you open it. The most
important thing is to leave the gate as you found it. If it is open,
leave it open. Closed may mean there are sheep that will get out if
you do not leave it exactly as you found it.
Styles: these are things rarely seen in the US. It is a sort of step that goes over a fence. Nice because you do not have to find a gate to go thru. But it can mean anything to stone steps built into a wall, to rickety wood benches to carefully go over barbed wire. These often are moss covered, rickety, or have a steep access. Going around styles can mean major detours. Styles can also be a useful place to sit and wait while the rest of your party does their hike.
There will be poo: No mater if in town, a country road, or cross country you will find it under foot. Plan your shoes or boots accordingly. Remember that you are responsible to clean all footwear thoroughly. If we have learned nothing else in 2020, we must take measures that we are not the one to carry contaminants from one place to another.
There will also be rain: Invest in a lightweight windbreaker/rain shell. One that will smush into a small bag that can live in your pocket or pack. One that opens in the front makes it possible to have more ventilation when you are warm. I like long ones that drip on your feet, rather than drenching your feet. Not only will it keep you dry, but you will double your warmth in wind.
Cars: Beyond the obvious that they will be on the other side of the road, they also have different traditions. They expect the pedestrian to get out of the way, where in the US we are more likely to expect the driver to take the responsibility. Also when you look at the driver, your brain may have failed to register that the UK cars have the steering wheel on the other side of the car. That person you just made friendly eye contact with may have been the passenger.
Walk on the Right Side to face oncoming traffic. Although often the point is moot because you will need to navigate all sorts of hazards. It will do you well to watch the edge of the road with a mind to where you will jump if surprised by a small car, huge truck, or farm equipment. They appear without warning.
Canals: One great joy is walking along the canal paths. Like train paths in the US, canals are natural places for paths to be developed. And they are almost always flat. Rarely there will be a few steps to climb or ramps to go over roadways, but the nature of canals is to be as level as possible. They also have the occasional pub to enjoy.
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