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Capital climbs

Hillwalking might not be the first activity you associate with London, but the city has plenty of high ground to explore – from the seven hills of Croydon to the Sewardstone Hills and Hampstead Heath. See the capital in a new way, taking in its summits and panoramic views, with Hillwalking London: Ten High-Level Walks to the Heights of the Capital by Caroline Buckland (£14.99, Safe Haven). Available from Waterstones, Amazon and independent bookshops – or Ramblers members can get 10% off with the code RAM10 at safehavenbooks.co.uk

 

 

Leading the way

For more than 50 years, Cicerone has been publishing the best guidebooks for walking, hiking, climbing and cycling in the UK, Europe and beyond. Each pocket-sized guidebook comes with detailed route descriptions and comprehensive mapping, and is packed with information and advice – so you’ll have everything you need for a great time on the trail. From £9.95. Plus, Ramblers members can get 20% off all guidebooks and e-books with the code RAMBLERS20 at cicerone.co.uk

 

 

Scottish adventures

With more than 790 islands, the seas around Scotland offer a wealth of unique coastal havens to discover. Exploring Scotland’s Islands: A Guide to their Landscape, History, Culture and Nature by Terry Marsh (£20, Conway) is a glorious celebration of some of the most superb scenery in Scotland, featuring maps, illustrations and photographs. Whether you’re interested in sandy beaches; spotting otters, puffins and seals; the finest whisky and cheese; or a lesson in Scottish history, this fascinating guide is sure to help you find what you’re looking for. bloomsbury.com

 

 

Horticultural history

How did plants from all over the world make their way to Britain and Ireland? The Tree Hunters: How the Cult of the Arboretum Transformed Our Landscape by Thomas Pakenham (£30, Weidenfeld & Nicolson) traces the history of Britain’s tree collectors, from the 17th-century pioneers whose collections included apricots from North Africa, firs from Arctic Russia and the seeds of many American trees. It’s an exuberant book that reveals the tales of adventure, discovery, rivalry and passion that created the modern British landscape. Published 24 October, weidenfeldandnicolson.co.uk