South West Tourism has launched a free pocket guide highlighting some of the best short walks available in the region. The new guide, entitled �Scenic Short Walks�, has been produced in association with ITV�s �Britain on the Move� campaign and aims to encourage healthier lifestyles and a greater enjoyment of the region among visitors and residents alike.

With two national parks, 14 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and a 630 mile-long coast path � which is also Britain�s longest National Trail � visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to the great outdoors in the South West.

The guide features 25 walks in total and an equal mix of coastal and inland walks of varying length and difficulty, each carefully chosen for its spectacular views, historical significance or for the numerous species of wildlife that can be spotted from the path. The South West region encompasses Bath, Bristol, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds, Somerset, and Wiltshire and regardless of age or agility this guide offers something for everyone.

All walks featured in the guide are easy to follow and each one comes complete with an ordnance survey map as well as details on the length, terrain, start / finish points and local transport links.

Furthermore, all walks have been recommended by a local expert, giving visitors the added benefit of acquiring local knowledge on walks in the region. For instance the 5-mile route from County Gate in Exmoor is a firm favourite of Tim Parish, Exmoor National Park�s Area Ranger, offering some of the finest views from the Exmoor section of the South West Coast Path. It also includes a number of interesting sights along the way, such as Exmoor�s famous ponies and Old Burrow Hill, a Roman lookout point.

Those looking for a slightly easier trail should try the �Old & New Wardour Castles� walk. This gentle 3.5-mile route takes walkers past the 14th century Old Wardour Castle where Robin Hood, Prince of Thieves was filmed - and the 18th century New Wardour Castle built in the Palladian manner with a fine Italianate Chapel. Those looking for a walk rich in archaeology and wildlife should take a stroll on the ancient Corfe Common, Dorset�s largest common at 140 hectares. Records show that Corfe Common�s boundaries have remained unaltered since 1775 and this easy 1.5-mile walk takes in medieval trackways, Celtic field systems and the striking ruins of Corfe Castle. Walkers should also keep an eye out for a wide variety of wildlife.

Simon Fry from the Forestry Commission recommends the Sculpture Trail, in the Forest of Dean as an ideal choice for a family day out. Starting from Beechenhurst Lodge in Gloucestershire, this moderate 4-mile forest trail features sculptures by famous artists in a beautiful woodland setting. Another great family walk is the easy 3-mile walk from Meldon Reservoir on Dartmoor which has been designed so that children can lead their parents.

Several South West celebrities also give their tips for the best walks - and pubs - in the region. Singer and musician Jamie Cullum finds inspiration while strolling along Bath�s canal paths, while actress Jenny Agutter recommends taking the coast path along Cornwall�s breathtakingly beautiful Lizard Peninsula followed by a drink at the Top House pub.

What�s more, the British Heart Foundation is marking National Walking Day on 18 September 2005 by organising sponsored walks along two of the routes featured in the guide � the White Horse-Westbury on Salisbury Plain, Wiltshire and Looe-Polperro, Cornwall. For more details visit www.bhf.org.uk

To request a copy of �Scenic Short Walks�, or for more information on walking in South West England, visit www.outdoorsouthwest.co.uk

For general information on visiting South West England visit www.visitsouthwest.co.uk or call 0870 442 0880

For media information please contact Liz Dale at South West Tourism on 01392 353 218 or email: pressoffice@swtourism.co.uk

--ENDS-- Notes to Editors:

South West Tourism is a partnership of private enterprise and both local and central government. We work to encourage the promotion and development of tourism in Bath, Bristol, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds and Wiltshire.