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Barefoot Britain: A Running Adventure Like No Other
Step into an adventure that set the country alight.
Anna McNuff had never run a mile without shoes on before. And yet, one British summer, she set off to run a (very) wiggly route from the Shetland Islands to London–on a mission to cover the distance of 100 marathons…in bare feet.
Fuelled by a desire to push mind and body to the limit (and to drink tea and eat biscuits), she zigzagged over rugged coastlines, through small villages, across windswept moors, along golden sandy beaches, and even down the odd picturesque A-road. As the journey gathered pace, she was joined by thousands of other runners and soon learned that, even though she was (usually) the only one in bare feet, this was far from a solo journey.
Barefoot Britain is warm-hearted, funny and painfully honest–featuring remote islands, big cities, kind strangers and setbacks-a-plenty. It’s a story which reveals the messy reality of taking on a crazy idea, and above all, shows how one person’s will to dig deep and carry on can encourage others to do the same.
Anna McNuff had never run a mile without shoes on before. And yet, one British summer, she set off to run a (very) wiggly route from the Shetland Islands to London–on a mission to cover the distance of 100 marathons…in bare feet.
Fuelled by a desire to push mind and body to the limit (and to drink tea and eat biscuits), she zigzagged over rugged coastlines, through small villages, across windswept moors, along golden sandy beaches, and even down the odd picturesque A-road. As the journey gathered pace, she was joined by thousands of other runners and soon learned that, even though she was (usually) the only one in bare feet, this was far from a solo journey.
Barefoot Britain is warm-hearted, funny and painfully honest–featuring remote islands, big cities, kind strangers and setbacks-a-plenty. It’s a story which reveals the messy reality of taking on a crazy idea, and above all, shows how one person’s will to dig deep and carry on can encourage others to do the same.
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Published February 15, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
March 28, 2023
This is my fourth book to read from Anna McNuff about her crazy adventures. I still love 50 Shades of USA (has a new name now that I don't care to remember) the best, but this was a close second. I learned more about the UK, and added several places to my list that I want to visit, including the Shetlands. It was a longer book, but it read quickly, and you felt like you were with her barefoot running. I always love that she includes the people in her stories, the people she stays with, the people she makes friends with, and anyone else she meets along the way. For the first time, she included the awful comments she received from trolls about her adventure run. But this run was not just for her, it was for a great cause to raise awareness for Girl Guiding and inspiring young ladies to be strong, adventurous, and not to give in to peer pressure. Anna still has an issue of doing too much, which gets her in trouble. She never counts for injuries and she pushes herself too much. I was frustrated with her on Llama Drama, because she didn't seem to enjoy her surroundings; it was more about getting to the next destination. She did start to do this a couple of times, but then finally learned her lessons, and pulled herself back to either rest or just check in with herself (sometimes a little too late). Maybe for her next adventure, she will actually include emergency weeks.
This book will inspire you, maybe not running barefoot through the whole of UK, but definitely to create your own adventure or at the very least, add some unknown places to your list.
This book will inspire you, maybe not running barefoot through the whole of UK, but definitely to create your own adventure or at the very least, add some unknown places to your list.
December 10, 2022
I received an ARC copy of the book to review and absolutely loved it. As a fan of McNuff’s previous adventure books, reading this one felt like a big old adventure hug from the pink-haired goddess herself.
This is a book about a barefoot adventure, but it’s also a book about the kindness of others and the bonds of the running/adventure community. Told with Anna’s trademark warmth and humour (I say “Anna” because she feels like a friend now!) this book is also an honest account of the highs and lows of taking on a physical and mental challenge.
If you love running/adventure then this is the book for you. If you love having your faith in humanity restored by reading about how people come together then this is the book for you. And if you simply love a cracking tale told by someone who pours their heart and soul into everything they do, then this is also the book for you. Best read with a slice of cake and a cuppa (shoes optional).
This is a book about a barefoot adventure, but it’s also a book about the kindness of others and the bonds of the running/adventure community. Told with Anna’s trademark warmth and humour (I say “Anna” because she feels like a friend now!) this book is also an honest account of the highs and lows of taking on a physical and mental challenge.
If you love running/adventure then this is the book for you. If you love having your faith in humanity restored by reading about how people come together then this is the book for you. And if you simply love a cracking tale told by someone who pours their heart and soul into everything they do, then this is also the book for you. Best read with a slice of cake and a cuppa (shoes optional).
January 15, 2023
Anna had a unique and beautiful way of writing that is very honest and funny. Anna's positivity and inspiration is so tangible as you read and half way though reading the book I was so inspired, I went for my first run in about 3 years (with trainers!).
May 1, 2024
A great book about adventuring in Britain. Anna has a lovely writing style that makes you feel as if she’s chatting to you personally about her trip. This was helped by the fact I was listening to it as audio read by her. An easy fun listen or read!
January 3, 2024
The world would be a much more interesting and chaotic place with more Anna in it. Still, a very pleasant read - bit of travelling info, plenty of wonderful people met along the way, a portion of experiencing new sensations and an insight into the soles upgrading process.
March 5, 2023
I’ve loved all of Anna McNuff’s books and this one took me on a whirlwind barefoot tour of the UK with her. Really identified with all her joyous and dark moments of running. A real warm hug of a book.
August 4, 2024
anna is incredible- and not only is this an amazing adventure, but i was wowed at the attitude she brought to every single day (even and especially the hard ones) this was written so well, i was engaged throughout!!
October 2, 2023
Wow what an amazing woman
January 14, 2024
This was the second book I've read by Anna, and just like the before, I felt invested in the journey and inspired to find my own challenge and adventure!
April 15, 2023
Completely and totally inspiring!! What an amazing journey Anna went on - and took me with her on the adventure! I feel that I ran every step and helped her eat every sausage roll!! A great book about running, but more about the power of the person to change the way people think about life.
We could do with an Anna in every town and every household. Brilliant.
We could do with an Anna in every town and every household. Brilliant.
February 23, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
January 4, 2023
Mainly writing a review because Anna asked me to at the end of the book and that’s the kind of polite request I can get on board with. I love Anna and love her even more after reading this book. Her ability to fight through things, to be braver than she believes so can be, and also her ability to be the best ambassador GirlguidingUK could ask for. I’m now planning my own adventures (on a smaller scale)! Thanks McNuff!
September 13, 2023
Ah, I enjoyed reading this. I’m on holiday so got to read it in a few chunks rather than spread out over a longer period which made me enjoy it all the more. It made me so grateful for the running my body can now do (I’m thinking 10K rather than an Anna day) and determined to keep on running. I loved the stories about the people that ran with her, the hugs, the cakes… always the cakes.
December 23, 2025
What an incredible and inspiring person! Really enjoyable read
March 11, 2023
Another compelling tale of adventure from the intrepid McNuff
Easy to read, well written and no holds barred. I love the fact that Anna is so honest about the highs as well as the lows of adventuring. And so enthusiastic about the people and the places she comes across.
Easy to read, well written and no holds barred. I love the fact that Anna is so honest about the highs as well as the lows of adventuring. And so enthusiastic about the people and the places she comes across.
February 15, 2023
I have enjoyed all of Anna's books but this one holds a special place for me as I was one of those 2500 runners who joined her for a stage on her journey running barefoot Britain.
I had followed the journey online at the time but there is so much more in the book. Brilliant descriptions of landscapes and the fabulous people along the way, all with a splattering of Anna's zany humour.
However what I really took from the book is how Anna isn't afraid of showing her vulnerability in it which I think really helps other women and girls know that just because you are struggling doesn't mean you aren't a kick arse hero too.
When running with Anna, she was so welcoming and positive that I would never have realised how low she had felt. That makes me think about how often we all cover those emotions to the outside world and that we often have no idea what is going on in someone else's orbit.
I have to admit I got a bit emotional in the book when she reached the final day of running as it touched me so much.
If you need some inspiration, then read this or any of McNuff books as they always make me want to find my own adventure. At adventure pace, of course, and with lots of cake.
Anna keep being awesome and quirky forever.
I had followed the journey online at the time but there is so much more in the book. Brilliant descriptions of landscapes and the fabulous people along the way, all with a splattering of Anna's zany humour.
However what I really took from the book is how Anna isn't afraid of showing her vulnerability in it which I think really helps other women and girls know that just because you are struggling doesn't mean you aren't a kick arse hero too.
When running with Anna, she was so welcoming and positive that I would never have realised how low she had felt. That makes me think about how often we all cover those emotions to the outside world and that we often have no idea what is going on in someone else's orbit.
I have to admit I got a bit emotional in the book when she reached the final day of running as it touched me so much.
If you need some inspiration, then read this or any of McNuff books as they always make me want to find my own adventure. At adventure pace, of course, and with lots of cake.
Anna keep being awesome and quirky forever.
December 5, 2022
Another amazing read from Girlguiding UK's inspiring ambassador Anna McNuff! I thoroughly enjoyed the journey Anna took us on through Britain from start to finish. Anna's way of writing is really engaging- with hilarious anecdotes, fun facts, and great story-telling, whilst also being brutally and bravely honest about the mental and physical hardships she endured and overcame along the way. At the end of reading Barefoot Britain I feel inspired, energised, and like I've had an incredible confidence boost- despite having done nothing more myself than sit on my sofa and immerse myself in Anna's barefoot adventure across Britain! I can't wait to read more of her books in future!
June 12, 2025
Motivational and honest, the highs and lows of running long distances resonated and reading about Anna’s journey made me want to get out there challenging myself. Barefoot though - I am not so sure!
Entertaining reading for runners and non runners, I took the message that it’s a book about the power of saying yes and keeping going even in tricky times.
Entertaining reading for runners and non runners, I took the message that it’s a book about the power of saying yes and keeping going even in tricky times.
September 28, 2025
I’m still not sure whether I liked reading this or not. It was easy to chew but hard to swallow. She decides to run sort-of the length of Great Britain (including Scotland and Wales). She’s doing it to collect money (? Not sure about that) or at least, publicize Girlguiding, a group that encourages adventurous activities in girls and young women. It’s a little like Girl Scouts but British. But I never really got the impression she was all that into Girlguiding other than as a reason to do something fun and exciting that she wanted to do for herself. Not meaning that in a super negative way—it’s what a lot of us do. Find an activity we want to do, and so long as we’re at it, why not benefit a good cause that we believe in?
Her observations of the world around her and her descriptions of them were top notch—very enjoyable to read. But her own personality got in the way a little too much. She didn’t seem to understand how to take care of herself in the way she needed to, to accomplish such a huge endeavor. I kept wanting to give her a hard shake of the shoulder and say, hold up! Give yourself time to enjoy the journey.
And the whole idea of doing it barefoot…well, I’m all for barefoot running myself. But she wasn’t. She didn’t run barefoot before the run, and after she finished, she went back to running with shoes. (Although she says that she’s planning to do a few barefoots from time to time.) It was more of a gimmick she undertook, to get attention. Or am I seeing her all wrong? Maybe so—but I just didn’t understand why. I can guess lots of good reasons why, but those are my guesses and nothing to do with hers. So, why?
Her observations of the world around her and her descriptions of them were top notch—very enjoyable to read. But her own personality got in the way a little too much. She didn’t seem to understand how to take care of herself in the way she needed to, to accomplish such a huge endeavor. I kept wanting to give her a hard shake of the shoulder and say, hold up! Give yourself time to enjoy the journey.
And the whole idea of doing it barefoot…well, I’m all for barefoot running myself. But she wasn’t. She didn’t run barefoot before the run, and after she finished, she went back to running with shoes. (Although she says that she’s planning to do a few barefoots from time to time.) It was more of a gimmick she undertook, to get attention. Or am I seeing her all wrong? Maybe so—but I just didn’t understand why. I can guess lots of good reasons why, but those are my guesses and nothing to do with hers. So, why?
April 7, 2023
another McNuff Adventure devoured
I’ve read all of Anna’s book but I have a tile and it’s that I have to be travelling. It’s a self imposed rule but it feels McNuffy so I go with it. Because of said rule this has been patiently waiting for me to get on a train and March 2023 I finally went on many trains, a plane and quite a few tube/metros and went in headfirst.
I love these books because they get the heart of the adventure, they tell you the things you want to know, what adventurers eat, the days when you can’t be arsed but plough on regardless but most of all they remind you there are more people out there like us, people who want you to achieve and will cheer you on and welcome you in. We need more of that.
I wish I had joined in the run that October, I booked a day off work but ended up using that day to recover with my only ever running injury (wasn’t even a run but a jog the day before) but thanks to this book I feel as though I was there. all the way. McNuff is contagious, a real force of nature , be more McNuff.
I’ve read all of Anna’s book but I have a tile and it’s that I have to be travelling. It’s a self imposed rule but it feels McNuffy so I go with it. Because of said rule this has been patiently waiting for me to get on a train and March 2023 I finally went on many trains, a plane and quite a few tube/metros and went in headfirst.
I love these books because they get the heart of the adventure, they tell you the things you want to know, what adventurers eat, the days when you can’t be arsed but plough on regardless but most of all they remind you there are more people out there like us, people who want you to achieve and will cheer you on and welcome you in. We need more of that.
I wish I had joined in the run that October, I booked a day off work but ended up using that day to recover with my only ever running injury (wasn’t even a run but a jog the day before) but thanks to this book I feel as though I was there. all the way. McNuff is contagious, a real force of nature , be more McNuff.
November 26, 2024
This author has done it again. I have read all her previous adventure books and finally managed to listen to this one, enjoyable narrated by the author. I don't like stepping onto my deck barefoot so the thought of running 100 marathons around Britain barefoot is absolutely 'bonkers' as one little girl told the author during her run. With beautiful descriptions of the scenery, mouth-watering details about food consumed and horrendous tales about foot injuries this was fun armchair adventure. But it was much more than that. The author met and talked with people along the way, gaining wisdom and finding ways to motivate herself and inspire us all. In the end this wasn't so much as barefoot as baring her soul and we all the better for it. I know the author is on more of a motherhood adventure now and looking forward to reading whatever she has in store for us next.
March 31, 2023
This is the second book I've read by this author and it didn't disappoint. She is definitely a unique and adventurous soul. Her other book was about cycling the length of South America and this barefoot run was 2600 miles through the UK. I googled so many of the places she talked about and it felt like I was with her. She has a very open and honest way when talking about the best of times and her struggles. She shared her experience with Girlguides (Girl Scouts in the U.S) along the way giving inspirational talks. I will definitely read her book about running through the United States. This is another author I would enjoy having as a friend. She's a hoot and I admire her spunk and courage.
July 14, 2024
Whenever I am feeling in need of motivation, I pick up a book by Anna McNuff. The joy in her voice, the honesty in her words, and just the sheer amazement at what incredible feat she’s done lift my spirits.
I can only imagine what my life would’ve been if I’d had a friend like Ann growing up. Her energy, her Incredibles sense of humor and just the wonder of who she is makes me happy to live on the same planet. I wish I lived on the same continent, but her audiobooks are the next best thing.
Although I’m not able to run 90 marathons (probably one a year would be more than enough), knowing that there is someone like Anna out there just makes me happy. Anna, please keep adventuring and writing. You motivate us all!
I can only imagine what my life would’ve been if I’d had a friend like Ann growing up. Her energy, her Incredibles sense of humor and just the wonder of who she is makes me happy to live on the same planet. I wish I lived on the same continent, but her audiobooks are the next best thing.
Although I’m not able to run 90 marathons (probably one a year would be more than enough), knowing that there is someone like Anna out there just makes me happy. Anna, please keep adventuring and writing. You motivate us all!
April 11, 2025
I did this as an audiobook and it was so good! McNuff is the narrator and she is fantastic. Honestly, she sounds like a professional audiobook narrator. She is also a very good writer and held my attention the entire time.
McNuff decides to run the distance of 100 marathons across Britain, starting in the Shetland Islands and finishing up in London. She narrates her adventures, the encounters with the people along the way, and the scenery and cities she passes through. It's not all smooth sailing and she encounters some challenges along the way. I liked her honesty about dealing with the thoughts in her head. I struggle with this as well...sometimes they are difficult to tune out. Overall, this was a very inspiring, uplifting, and positive book. I can't recommend it enough, and I encourage you to grab the audiobook.
She also has some short videos on YouTube of the adventure, which were fun to watch along with the audiobook.
McNuff decides to run the distance of 100 marathons across Britain, starting in the Shetland Islands and finishing up in London. She narrates her adventures, the encounters with the people along the way, and the scenery and cities she passes through. It's not all smooth sailing and she encounters some challenges along the way. I liked her honesty about dealing with the thoughts in her head. I struggle with this as well...sometimes they are difficult to tune out. Overall, this was a very inspiring, uplifting, and positive book. I can't recommend it enough, and I encourage you to grab the audiobook.
She also has some short videos on YouTube of the adventure, which were fun to watch along with the audiobook.
February 3, 2023
Head over heels with this book!
I loved every bit of this book. I laughed, I cried I even had goosebumps mind you! Anna’s writing style feels like you are right there with her living that very adventure. Thanks a million Anna for another masterpiece! I got the copy for my ebook and I loved it so much that I’ve also felt compelled to buy the physical copy with the idea of rereading it while I stop and check every place she mentions so I can get to know more about beautiful Britain. Also I want to share it with some friends so as to introduce them to the unique and awesome adventurer Mrs. Mcnuff! Totally recommend it
I loved every bit of this book. I laughed, I cried I even had goosebumps mind you! Anna’s writing style feels like you are right there with her living that very adventure. Thanks a million Anna for another masterpiece! I got the copy for my ebook and I loved it so much that I’ve also felt compelled to buy the physical copy with the idea of rereading it while I stop and check every place she mentions so I can get to know more about beautiful Britain. Also I want to share it with some friends so as to introduce them to the unique and awesome adventurer Mrs. Mcnuff! Totally recommend it
February 22, 2023
Anna Runs a Righteous Route
Anna again writes an inimitable book about an adventure that only she could have imagined, produced, participated in w many others and grown from. Her style is easily readable and intensely detailed. Her eye for landscapes and landforms translates into a fascinating tale.
I’ve read several of McNuff’s books and each is a gem. She lives a life many dream of and reading about her adventures allows me to be there in spirit.
I’d love to meet Anna, Jamie & Storm for a weekend excursion anywhere on Gaia.
Highly recommend this even if you’ve never put on a pair of sneakers.
Anna again writes an inimitable book about an adventure that only she could have imagined, produced, participated in w many others and grown from. Her style is easily readable and intensely detailed. Her eye for landscapes and landforms translates into a fascinating tale.
I’ve read several of McNuff’s books and each is a gem. She lives a life many dream of and reading about her adventures allows me to be there in spirit.
I’d love to meet Anna, Jamie & Storm for a weekend excursion anywhere on Gaia.
Highly recommend this even if you’ve never put on a pair of sneakers.
June 20, 2023
This was an absolutely delightful book. I've been reading a lot of non-fiction lately but hadn't had something to read before bed that made me feel cheerful. This really was that. A fun adventure story about a very impressive woman who just seemed like the most fun person you could be around. Her voice was wonderful, and it really felt like reading updates from a friend (who happened to be running from the top of Scotland to London barefoot.) I wish I could have been one of those many people who joined her for a day on her adventure.
July 19, 2023
I absolutely love reading Anna’s books… anytime I’m thinking an adventure I want to to is too crazy, I run accords one of her adventure books and realize I’m just barely scratching the surface of what I could do! I’m honestly ok with that, but it’s good to know how much farther we can push the envelope. I also loved learning about Britain as she traversed the countryside and met new people along the way. I listened to this while hiking 150 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, so it was interesting to hear her talk about foot issues - I was very grateful for my shoes 🤣 but go Anna!!
January 29, 2024
I've listened to all of Anna's books on Audible, and I love her humor and way of telling stories. I'm so thankful that she goes on these adventures so I can read about them, but not have to do it myself! Of Anna's books so far, this one was my least favorite I think because it was more about the people she ran with/stayed with along the way instead of the landscapes/places/cultural bits that I've appreciated in her NZ, USA, and South America books. I hope that someday she'll run/bike/scooter (who knows?) near Austin, TX so I can meet her. :) Looking forward to Anna's next book!
May 2, 2025
Inspirational
Anna McNuff has courage in spades. She gets a mad idea and (in this case) runs with it. Reading about her adventures inspired me to have my own bite sized adventures. I am off canoe camping with my husband, 3 boys and our dog in tow this weekend and it was because I was reading this book that I remembered how wonderful getting out on adventures can be. Maybe one day we will do a bigger adventure but for now this is enough. Thank you Anna for the inspiration, the laughs as the tears. I highly recommend this story.
Anna McNuff has courage in spades. She gets a mad idea and (in this case) runs with it. Reading about her adventures inspired me to have my own bite sized adventures. I am off canoe camping with my husband, 3 boys and our dog in tow this weekend and it was because I was reading this book that I remembered how wonderful getting out on adventures can be. Maybe one day we will do a bigger adventure but for now this is enough. Thank you Anna for the inspiration, the laughs as the tears. I highly recommend this story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews