TPT Awakening – March on the Trans Pennine Trail 

As winter loosens its grip and the promise of brighter days begins to shine through, March feels like the moment the world lets out a long, contented sigh. Here on the Trans Pennine Trail, this is the month where everything and everyone seems to stretch, breathe, and gently awaken. 

The mornings start to glow a little earlier, and the evenings finally gift us those precious extra minutes of daylight that make all the difference. Whether you’re commuting, strolling with a friend, or heading out for your first big adventure of the year, the Trail suddenly feels more inviting… almost like it’s been waiting for you. 

Thankfully by March, daylight is noticeably on the rise. That shift is something Trail users feel with brighter mornings setting a positive tone, lighter evenings for an afterwork explore and a renewed sense of energy.  It’s amazing how quickly those extra slivers of sunlight can boost confidence, motivation, and mood. The Trail begins to hum with possibility again. 

One of the real wonders of March is the sound of nature – stand still for a moment on any part of the Trail and you’ll hear the gentle layering of birdsong returning — a relaxing, uplifting soundtrack that has an incredible ability to bring calm to a busy day.  It’s nature’s way of saying, “you’ve made it through the dark months – here’s something beautiful to carry you forward.” 

You may also notice some of our wonderful animals in March as hedgehogs gradually begin to wake up from their long winter rest.  You may see bats now venturing out on warmer evenings and the beautiful dormouse is still sleepy, but beginning to rouse towards the end of the month, making March, quite literally, a month of awakening. 

It’s also a month to reset.  As the weather softens, people return — with walking boots, running shoes, bikes, prams, mobility scooters, dogs, horses, friends, or just their own thoughts. March is when plans begin: first charity rides, first long walks, first meetups after months spent mostly indoors. 

From volunteers preparing for the busy season to families taking their first gentle stroll of the year, the Trail becomes a place of renewed connection and purpose. 

For many, March is a time for fresh goals, new adventures, rediscovering favourite sections of the Trail or simply enjoying the lighter, brighter days ahead. 

This spring, the Trans Pennine Trail is ready to welcome every version of you — the energetic, the curious, the reflective, the determined, and the “just taking it one step at a time” version too. 

Awakening (by Copilot) 

The quiet months have had their say,
But now the light returns to play.
A gentle glow from sky to ground,
With softer air and brighter sound.
A season stirs, begins to sing —
Hello to March, hello to spring. 

Mandy | TPT Lead Officer
Date: 6th March, 2026

               
Mandy Loach   Hannah Beaumont   Robert Drummond