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A Walk from the Wild Edge
The remarkable true story of one man's inspiring journey through his 3,000 mile walk across the country
'A great and inspirational read' MATT HAIG, bestselling author of Reasons to Stay Alive
'Inspiring' INDEPENDENT
'An uplifting and inspirational journey through raw emotion' RAYNOR WINN, bestselling author of The Salt Path
AS SEEN ON BBC BREAKFAST
______
Jake Tyler had forgotten how to feel alive.
With only a pair of boots and a backpack, he set off on a 3000-mile walk around Britain - along coastal paths, over mountains, through every national park.
His journey became his road to recovery. On it he rediscovered the British landscape, the extraordinary kindness of strangers and most importantly, his place in the world.
This is his inspiring story, away from the wild edge.
______
'Jake you have changed people's lives . . . we are all fans!' Chris Evans, Virgin Radio
'An incredible journey, an inspirational memoir . . . beautiful' Zoe Ball, BBC Radio 2
'Inspiring . . . It's something that will help many through these dark times' Bryony Gordon
'This book is a tonic. Until we can all get out and explore Britain's beauty for ourselves again, this is the ideal substitute' Mirror
'So compelling in his honesty . . . very poignant' Express
'A tale told with courageous honesty. There's much to learn here about how reconnecting with nature and trusting others can rekindle the joy of being alive' BBC Countryfile
'A testament to the power of human connection, this is a physical and mental journey to inspire hope even in the darkest of times' National Geographic
'A great and inspirational read' MATT HAIG, bestselling author of Reasons to Stay Alive
'Inspiring' INDEPENDENT
'An uplifting and inspirational journey through raw emotion' RAYNOR WINN, bestselling author of The Salt Path
AS SEEN ON BBC BREAKFAST
______
Jake Tyler had forgotten how to feel alive.
With only a pair of boots and a backpack, he set off on a 3000-mile walk around Britain - along coastal paths, over mountains, through every national park.
His journey became his road to recovery. On it he rediscovered the British landscape, the extraordinary kindness of strangers and most importantly, his place in the world.
This is his inspiring story, away from the wild edge.
______
'Jake you have changed people's lives . . . we are all fans!' Chris Evans, Virgin Radio
'An incredible journey, an inspirational memoir . . . beautiful' Zoe Ball, BBC Radio 2
'Inspiring . . . It's something that will help many through these dark times' Bryony Gordon
'This book is a tonic. Until we can all get out and explore Britain's beauty for ourselves again, this is the ideal substitute' Mirror
'So compelling in his honesty . . . very poignant' Express
'A tale told with courageous honesty. There's much to learn here about how reconnecting with nature and trusting others can rekindle the joy of being alive' BBC Countryfile
'A testament to the power of human connection, this is a physical and mental journey to inspire hope even in the darkest of times' National Geographic
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 18, 2021
63 people are currently reading
716 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
May 17, 2021
Essentially this book is about a seemingly really nice guy, who went through a really tough time so decided to go on a really long walk and in so doing was reminded that being close to nature, connecting with others, and feeling a sense of achievement whatever that may look like (maybe its walking the furthest you ever have in a day, maybe its managing to get out of bed) is really important to our emotional well being.
Jake walks and runs 3000 miles around Britain, and while I cannot get behind all that running (being as I am one of those people that doesn't seem to get the post run endorphin rush...), I wholeheartedly align with the notion of taking time to connect with yourself, do what you enjoy, and mindfully soak up some of the wonderful healing power of nature. It was purely by chance I read this book during mental health awareness week in the uk, a week which this year had a focus on nature and its benefits on our well-being. What a fantastic coincidence that was.
I particularly enjoyed the fact Jake included the scrapes, mishaps and lessons he learnt along the way, without any pretensions of being a super hero and the humour he injects throughout the book. I also appreciate that Jake shares some of the things that help him, without acting as if these are the answers for everyone, just things you might try and he hopes will help.
I really enjoyed picturing the walk, it sure is something to instill a sense of being along for the adventure in a reader who is just sat on their sofa at the end of a day. Now, I'm off to soak up a little of that nature goodness myself... 🌳 📖
4.5 stars- I really recommend this book to anyone whether you've experienced mental illness or not, whether you like walking or not, its just a right nice read.
Jake walks and runs 3000 miles around Britain, and while I cannot get behind all that running (being as I am one of those people that doesn't seem to get the post run endorphin rush...), I wholeheartedly align with the notion of taking time to connect with yourself, do what you enjoy, and mindfully soak up some of the wonderful healing power of nature. It was purely by chance I read this book during mental health awareness week in the uk, a week which this year had a focus on nature and its benefits on our well-being. What a fantastic coincidence that was.
I particularly enjoyed the fact Jake included the scrapes, mishaps and lessons he learnt along the way, without any pretensions of being a super hero and the humour he injects throughout the book. I also appreciate that Jake shares some of the things that help him, without acting as if these are the answers for everyone, just things you might try and he hopes will help.
I really enjoyed picturing the walk, it sure is something to instill a sense of being along for the adventure in a reader who is just sat on their sofa at the end of a day. Now, I'm off to soak up a little of that nature goodness myself... 🌳 📖
4.5 stars- I really recommend this book to anyone whether you've experienced mental illness or not, whether you like walking or not, its just a right nice read.
October 27, 2022
If you are looking for a book about walking and the paths of Britain this is not it!
Whilst I like the authors honesty about mental health and how he tried to help himself and raise awareness I found him too chaotic and irritating. He jumps about all over the country and skips any description about the walks he is on. Instead talking more about getting drunk with people and sabotaging a walk funded by others!
Maybe I’m just jealous I can’t up sticks and walk all of the AONB of Britain but I found him really annoying!
Whilst I like the authors honesty about mental health and how he tried to help himself and raise awareness I found him too chaotic and irritating. He jumps about all over the country and skips any description about the walks he is on. Instead talking more about getting drunk with people and sabotaging a walk funded by others!
Maybe I’m just jealous I can’t up sticks and walk all of the AONB of Britain but I found him really annoying!
November 15, 2021
Honestly struggled to listen to this.
Whilst I fully appreciate the topic was excellent. Walking to defeat mental illness is a bold ambition and commedanble.
I just really didn't like the guy. Found him annoying.
Whilst I fully appreciate the topic was excellent. Walking to defeat mental illness is a bold ambition and commedanble.
I just really didn't like the guy. Found him annoying.
October 8, 2022
didn’t like it
Too much self absorption and too little real love of outdoor places for me Also didn’t like the drinking and the drugs
Too much self absorption and too little real love of outdoor places for me Also didn’t like the drinking and the drugs
July 2, 2024
Loved this book, so heartfelt and emotional. Found the first part about depression incredibly moving. The power of nature and walking should not be underestimated, it helps us in so many ways. It was good to read a mans perspective and to hear him realising self kindness is really important, far too often we are very harsh on ourselves.
Friends are family and human connection are vital in this tough and complicated world. I would recommend this book to anyone, particularly men who are struggling. It is full of hope, despite the struggles he continues to face and great British weather Jake deals with.
Friends are family and human connection are vital in this tough and complicated world. I would recommend this book to anyone, particularly men who are struggling. It is full of hope, despite the struggles he continues to face and great British weather Jake deals with.
October 12, 2022
WOW WOW WOW
November 29, 2022
1.5 stars
This was a very candid account of Jake Tyler's journey to "wellness". I put wellness in inverted commas as Jake's relapses appear to equal his progress.
I have to say the book dragged on a bit. There's only so many times you can read about someone walking, aching, staying on someone's couch, relapsing to getting pissed and coked up with mates then attempting to walk with a hangover, walking some more, being roped in to running a marathon, walking, hitchhiking with a random, aching some more.
Whilst accounts like these are valuable in opening up conversations about mental health, I think this could have been an extended article or essay as opposed to an entire book.
This was a very candid account of Jake Tyler's journey to "wellness". I put wellness in inverted commas as Jake's relapses appear to equal his progress.
I have to say the book dragged on a bit. There's only so many times you can read about someone walking, aching, staying on someone's couch, relapsing to getting pissed and coked up with mates then attempting to walk with a hangover, walking some more, being roped in to running a marathon, walking, hitchhiking with a random, aching some more.
Whilst accounts like these are valuable in opening up conversations about mental health, I think this could have been an extended article or essay as opposed to an entire book.
April 9, 2021
I'm still struggling to find proper words to describe how I felt as I was listening to the book. Saying it's just brilliant, or one the best books of its genre is not enough. Throughout the book, story-wise and also author's point of view, I was reminded of David Goggins, Colin O'Brady, Matt Haig and so many other authors I love. It might sound weird, but it's one of the rare titles that I love to thank the author for sharing his story.
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May 13, 2021
I really loved this book. Not only is it a thoughtful exploration into mental health and mental illness, but it's also an interesting look at the UK landscape and British people. Jake made me want to run again, and get excited to be able to get out and travel soon.
Kind of had a Wild vibe, in a good way. If you liked that book, you'll probably like this one.
Kind of had a Wild vibe, in a good way. If you liked that book, you'll probably like this one.
January 3, 2022
Really enjoyed this and read it in a couple of days. As the subtitle says, it’s ‘a journey of self-discovery and human connection’. What’s more, it’s an appreciation of the beauty of Britain and the basic niceness of most people you meet. Heartwarming. Some weird factual errors though. You cannot possibly see the white cliffs of Dover from Studland! Snowdon is definitely not Britain’s second highest peak. How did the Penguin editors let those (and more) get past them, I wonder?
March 21, 2021
I was really looking forward to this book and it didn't disappoint. The first few chapters set the initial backdrop for the lap focusing upon the mental health issues which led to Jake deciding to complete a lap of the UK. The rest of the book follows Jake on the lap (and a few other challenges) and his physical and mental journey.
It's a book that promotes the use of nature in healing ourselves and increasing self confidence and you'll find yourself wanting to get outdoors. The kindness and generosity of strangers that Jake encountered gave me a warm, fuzzy feeling.
It isn't a self-help book but it's scattered with interesting insights and tips particularly on the importance of connecting with people, feeling like you belong and the importance of being who you are and accepting it. It's isn't preachy though, Jake just puts across his thoughts as they occur along his journey. One insight which stuck with me is that whilst everyone's external factors/situations may differ often at the core we are all feeling similar feelings such as loneliness, being overwhelmed etc.
You'll like this book if you like walking, the outdoors or challenges but I'd recommend it to anyone as ultimately I found it a comforting read about the importance of stripping things back to basics.
It's a book that promotes the use of nature in healing ourselves and increasing self confidence and you'll find yourself wanting to get outdoors. The kindness and generosity of strangers that Jake encountered gave me a warm, fuzzy feeling.
It isn't a self-help book but it's scattered with interesting insights and tips particularly on the importance of connecting with people, feeling like you belong and the importance of being who you are and accepting it. It's isn't preachy though, Jake just puts across his thoughts as they occur along his journey. One insight which stuck with me is that whilst everyone's external factors/situations may differ often at the core we are all feeling similar feelings such as loneliness, being overwhelmed etc.
You'll like this book if you like walking, the outdoors or challenges but I'd recommend it to anyone as ultimately I found it a comforting read about the importance of stripping things back to basics.
April 13, 2022
A really honest and interesting book about mental health, especially depression. The inspiring story about the reaction to an almost end-game situation results in a hike around the UK with running too. Thoroughly enjoyed this book and it was nice to see someone be so honest about their experience.
November 5, 2021
A decent story. Slow starter but kept me interested in his journey.
July 12, 2021
Matt Haig meets Raynor Winn.
December 18, 2022
Outstanding, what a remarkable guy, I love those who triumph over adversity books. Mental Health and walking two of my favourite topics.
June 26, 2022
Quite interesting and a good focus on mental health, but I just couldn't warm to the guy. Lost a star for his “stupid Buddhist chant” comment
March 9, 2024
Interesting enough account of a depressed young man's walk "around" Great Britain after a mental breakdown where he came close to suicide.
He rambles along various footpaths, sleeps in strange places, meets strange people, sleeps with strange people, and becomes a runner.
It was OK enough. He seemed... erratic. The book was unorganized, he frequently pontificates about mental health (certainly some advice is good), and also casually does hard drugs.
My favourite part was the epilogue. In it, he describes life after the walk, and "walking" away from being a mental health advocate. It was touching to hear about his thoughts on defining oneself as an advocate, of returning to a "normal" life, of how he's doing post-trip...
He rambles along various footpaths, sleeps in strange places, meets strange people, sleeps with strange people, and becomes a runner.
It was OK enough. He seemed... erratic. The book was unorganized, he frequently pontificates about mental health (certainly some advice is good), and also casually does hard drugs.
My favourite part was the epilogue. In it, he describes life after the walk, and "walking" away from being a mental health advocate. It was touching to hear about his thoughts on defining oneself as an advocate, of returning to a "normal" life, of how he's doing post-trip...
May 31, 2025
This book completely stole my heart. Jack writes with such raw honesty, opening up about his struggles with mental health, alcohol, and the darker chapters of his life. But woven through that is something truly uplifting: a deep love for walking, a special bond with his mum, and a reminder that there are far more good people in the world than bad.
If you’ve ever walked the West Highland Way or tackled the South West Coast Path, Jack’s vivid descriptions will take you right back there (they did for me!). It’s heart-warming, real, and full of the kinds of challenges that make you want to pack your bag and head outdoors.
Highly recommended for those who love a good walk — and an even better story. 🥾❤️🌿
If you’ve ever walked the West Highland Way or tackled the South West Coast Path, Jack’s vivid descriptions will take you right back there (they did for me!). It’s heart-warming, real, and full of the kinds of challenges that make you want to pack your bag and head outdoors.
Highly recommended for those who love a good walk — and an even better story. 🥾❤️🌿
June 9, 2021
Wonderful, moving, inspiring, emotional, honest. I can’t praise the author enough for their brutally honest account of depression and the journey it took him on. I read this book after hearing the author be interviewed on Radio 2. I wanted to read it to get a better understanding of depression because my partner is suffering with it. A real eye opener and has given me a better idea of how I can help even though I know it’s something I can’t fix. I enjoyed every moment of Jakes journey and got lost in the scenery and adventures he experienced and I absolutely loved hearing about all the people he met who helped him on his journey. Humans really are beautiful.
April 25, 2021
This is without a doubt my top book of 2021 so far. To be honest, I'd place it firmly in my top 10 books of all time. It's got everything I look in a book - nature, walking, endurance events, the British countryside, mental health wisdom, inspiration, tales of human connections, running, twists, turns, ups and downs, many anecdotes , a cameo appearance from my favourite Royals, and a whole lot of brutal honesty. I read it cover to cover in three days - couldn't put it down. Do yourself a favour and read this book - you won't regret it.
December 5, 2022
Loved this book so much!! Having had a pretty awful year my mental health has suffered and there have been (and still are), many times when I want to pack up and disappear to live in nature somewhere. I have walked many miles this year and have always found that being surrounded by countryside calms my very soul.
Reading Jake's story, I felt a huge relief that so many of his thoughts and feelings were almost mirror images of my own. I felt as though I was in good company reading his awesome journey and it was amazing to picture the wealth of stunning scenery Great Britain has to offer.
Reading Jake's story, I felt a huge relief that so many of his thoughts and feelings were almost mirror images of my own. I felt as though I was in good company reading his awesome journey and it was amazing to picture the wealth of stunning scenery Great Britain has to offer.
April 4, 2023
A refreshingly open, honest and engrossing tale of recovery from the depths of despair - and the trials and tribulations along the way as the author finds targets and challenges on which to focus his attention, as (quite literally) step by step he circumnavigates the UK by foot.
Instantly engaging, his open writing style not only brings his struggles with mental health to the fore, but he also captures the raw emotions of travelling alone and achieving a goal.
An uplifting, inspirational, and enjoyable read.
Instantly engaging, his open writing style not only brings his struggles with mental health to the fore, but he also captures the raw emotions of travelling alone and achieving a goal.
An uplifting, inspirational, and enjoyable read.
June 28, 2025
Very honest and inspiring read.
I love Jakes letter to the reader at the end confirming there is no ultimate cure for mental illness but just taking the time to learn about yourself and what you need is a cure in itself, also allowing yourself to be open and honest with others breaks down barriers and makes us all more aware of the struggles we all face rather than all of us trying to pretend life is always easy!!! well done Jake, cant have been easy to write Never mind walk/run in the first place.
I love Jakes letter to the reader at the end confirming there is no ultimate cure for mental illness but just taking the time to learn about yourself and what you need is a cure in itself, also allowing yourself to be open and honest with others breaks down barriers and makes us all more aware of the struggles we all face rather than all of us trying to pretend life is always easy!!! well done Jake, cant have been easy to write Never mind walk/run in the first place.
August 8, 2021
I remember first watching Jake on the Mind over Marathon BBC programme and being introduced to his long walk back then, so I was excited to read his full story which I didn’t know much about. This book is less about Britain’s wild places as it is about Jake taming his wild side and finding his calm through walking and running. I particularly admired Jake opening up about some of his mistakes so publicly. A really enjoyable, and well written, read.
October 10, 2021
Having followed Jake's journey through Mind Over Marathon and realising he was actually from my home town, I followed his journey on social media and was so humbled by his achievements. Now having finally read his book that contains so many places I know (including many of the areas his journey took him) I am even more inspired. A great read for any aspiring adventurer learning to live with "the black dog" on your shoulder.
October 14, 2021
This is one of the best books I’ve read in a while, purely because I relate to it massively. Jake could be any one of my close friends, similar age, similar personality traits, similar hobbies, similar music taste. Listening to the audiobook was like chatting with someone I’d known for years. Was excited to listen to this every day on my way to work and that doesn’t happen very often - 100% would recommend. Couldn’t be more excited to set off walking and get back to climbing mountains!
July 24, 2022
Highly recommended whether you have experienced depression or not. For me, the most uplifting, yet down to earth description of a journey, through Britain, through the ups and downs of depression, and wonderful encounters with people. All entirely relatable to experiences both mental and ohysical The journey touched on so many of my favourite walks and memories.
A book I didn't want to end and I feel like starting again at the beginning immediately.
A book I didn't want to end and I feel like starting again at the beginning immediately.
August 12, 2022
An incredibly honest account of the misery of depression and how it is possible to get back out.
I will be buying a copy of this book for my son who has suffered from depression for years. Reaching the very depths and, with help from those who love him, pulling himself up.
This book is an absolute inspiration and I hope that Jake is able to enjoy a full and happy life.
The importance of spending time in natural surroundings cannot be overemphasised.
I will be buying a copy of this book for my son who has suffered from depression for years. Reaching the very depths and, with help from those who love him, pulling himself up.
This book is an absolute inspiration and I hope that Jake is able to enjoy a full and happy life.
The importance of spending time in natural surroundings cannot be overemphasised.
December 19, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. It had a cracking first half and really great anecdotes throughout about managing mental health. I have only given it four stars because it didn't fully keep my attention during the second half, and took me longer than I thought it would to finish (given I'd read the first half in only a couple of days). I'd still recommend it to anyone who loves an adventure/challenge read though, a really unique memoir.
February 28, 2025
A very good book about walking, self-help, emotional control, running and exploring nature. The author lived unhealthy life and had mental health issues and then he embarks on a self settled target, to walk around Britain.
At start, when the walk started, I thought about what is more in this book now. It's just a walk. But as i go further deep in the book, new things arrived which were very good.
This book is a must read for any nature loving person.
At start, when the walk started, I thought about what is more in this book now. It's just a walk. But as i go further deep in the book, new things arrived which were very good.
This book is a must read for any nature loving person.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews