In this episode of the Inspiring Adventure Podcast by Vertebrate Publishing we are joined by Anna Paxton, author of Peak Bagging: Peak District. Anna discusses her guidebook and shares personal insights on some of the Peak District's most rewarding routes. From her favorite trails to the influence of local landscapes on her writing, Anna provides both practical advice and heartfelt stories. Perfect for aspiring authors and enthusiastic peak baggers.
Anna Paxton is a hillwalker and ultrarunner who has completed ultramarathons in the Alps and the USA as well as closer to home. She works as a freelance writer and film producer on a variety of outdoor-related projects. Born in Sheffield and now living just a short walk or run from the gritstone edges of Froggatt and Stanage, she is especially knowledgeable about the Peak District. Her first guidebook, Day Walks in East Anglia, was published in 2021; this was followed by Day Walks in Lincolnshire and Peak Bagging: Peak District in 2025.
00:00 Introduction to Anna Paxton and Peak Bagging
00:32 Exploring the Peak District: Must-Visit Spots
01:01 Personal Connection to the Peak District
01:58 Writing and Adventure: A Natural Blend
03:17 Journey into Writing and Outdoor Industry
09:31 Creating the Peak Bagging Guidebook
12:47 Comparing Landscapes: Dark Peak vs. White Peak
14:29 Adventures in the Howden Area
16:16 Anna’s other guidebooks
20:49 Appreciation for home in the Peak District
22:00 Challenges of Writing a Guidebook for Lincolnshire
23:52 Connecting with the Peak District Through Writing
26:57 The Joy of Peak Bagging
29:42 The Ethels
31:49 Encouraging Responsible Outdoor Exploration
35:00 Practical Tips for Using the Guidebook
41:31 Where to Find More from Anna Paxton
Links
Peak Bagging: Peak District book by Anna Paxton
Day Walks in Lincolnshire book by Anna Paxton
Day Walks in East Anglia book by Anna Paxton
Ethel biography by Helen Mort
Anna’s newsletter: Outdoorista
Follow Anna on Instagram
Vertebate Publishing website
References
Host & Recording
This episode was hosted by Sarah Lister, author of Mountain Walks Kinder Scout. It was recorded outside at Cressbrook Dale (Route 22 from Anna’s book) on 28th September 2025.
Social media
Follow Vertebrate Publishing on Instagram, Facebook and Bluesky.
Music
Music by Mikhail Smusev from Pixabay
https://pixabay.com/music/future-bass-no-copyright-music-394971/
