Kington has always been a stop for walkers on Offa's Dyke Path — but now we’re seeing more people passing through on even bigger end-to-end journeys across the UK. Carrying their lives on their backs and travelling light, many are also switching to lightweight footwear like the Altra Lone Peak

Why do feet hurt? Do you need orthotics? And what’s the deal with barefoot shoes? We unpack some of the most common questions — in a way that actually makes sense

During the launch weekend of The Barefoot Shoe Box in Kington, we welcomed The Foot Collective for an open Town Hall-style conversation with the local community. Featuring podiatrist Andy Bryant, physiotherapist Jim Dooner and CEO Mac, the session explored feet, footwear, movement and what it means to build a genuine community around foot health.

When Charlie first walked into The Barefoot Shoe Box with The Foot Collective, I knew instantly he wasn’t just passing through. A former footballer whose career was cut short by chronic foot pain, Charlie rebuilt himself through natural movement — and found a whole new purpose along the way. Now he’s joining us in Kington to help grow the health and movement side of what we’re building here. His story is powerful, hopeful, and exactly the direction The Walking Hub has been evolving toward.

Looking for the perfect barefoot winter boot? In this episode of Liz & Ali Talk Barefoot, we review the Vivobarefoot Gobi Women’s Warm-Lined Boot — soft, flexible, and perfect for chilly days.

Nestled on the Welsh border, our little town has become something extraordinary — the world’s first barefoot shoe town. Following the UK’s first Barefoot Expo, we officially launched The Barefoot Shoe Box, and The Foot Collective travelled here to experience it for themselves. They stayed at The Walking Hub B&B, shared their wisdom on foot health, movement and community, and led an inspiring town hall talk. At sunrise, we walked Hergest Ridge together, barefoot on the land that shaped this journey. Their visit, their curiosity and the film they made captured the heart of what we are building — a place where shoes are minimal, feet are free, and community is real.

After eight years and hundreds of walkers, my B&B guest book is finally full.
It’s more than pages of names — it’s a collection of laughter, kindness, unexpected friendships, and muddy-booted stories from the Offa’s Dyke path and beyond.

From sending my very first guest the wrong way out of Hay-on-Wye (and sprinting to fix it), to hosting walkers in their 80s still chasing horizons — this book holds it all.

Here’s a little reflection on what it means to open your door to strangers… and find yourself richer for it.

The Walking Hub has been named a finalist (again!) in the Visit Herefordshire Tourism Awards 2025. We’re proud to be part of Herefordshire’s vibrant tourism community.