Orange Way facts for kids

West of Newbury, Berkshire, the Orange Way follows the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath

The Orange Way is a very long walking path in England. It stretches for about 350 miles (563 kilometers)! It's called the Orange Way because it follows the route taken by Prince William of Orange and his army in 1688. They marched from a place called Brixham all the way to London. This unofficial trail goes through several English counties like Devon, Dorset, Wiltshire, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and finally, London.

What is the Orange Way?

The Orange Way is not an official national trail. Instead, it's a suggested route for a long-distance walk. It connects many existing footpaths and quiet roads. Imagine walking across a big part of England! This path lets you explore different landscapes. You can see beautiful countryside, small villages, and historic towns.

Why is it called the Orange Way?

The name "Orange Way" comes from a historical event. In 1688, Prince William of Orange arrived in England. He landed with his army in Brixham, Devon. Their goal was to march to London. This march was a very important part of English history. It led to a big change in how the country was ruled.

The Glorious Revolution: A Quick Look

The march of Prince William of Orange was part of an event called the Glorious Revolution. This was a time when the people of England wanted a new king. They invited Prince William to come and take the throne. He was married to Mary, the daughter of the current King James II. William's march was mostly peaceful. It led to King James II leaving the country. William and Mary then became the new rulers of England. This event changed the power of the king. It gave more power to the Parliament.

Walking the Orange Way

Walking the entire Orange Way is a huge adventure. It's a very long journey. Most people would take many days to complete it. The suggested route is divided into 25 stages. Each stage covers a different distance. This allows walkers to break the journey into smaller parts. You can choose to walk just a section. Or you can try to complete the whole path. It's a great way to see England on foot. You can experience its history and natural beauty.