by Walking, a seemingly mundane activity that many of us engage in daily, was not always a popular pastime. In fact, it wasn’t until the late 18th century that walking for leisure became a common practice. Historically, walking had been associated with poverty, vagrancy, and even criminal intent. However, thanks to the influence of renowned figures like Charles Dickens and the Lake poets, the perception of walking began to change, paving the way for its popularity as a recreational activity among the Victorians.
Professional pedestrianism, or race-walking, gained prominence in the 1800s. Tournaments in America lasted for six days, with participants covering distances equivalent to 450 miles. A strict rule required walkers to maintain a heel-to-toe technique, ensuring that the advancing leg remained straight upon contact with the ground. Despite its sporting origins, pedestrianism as a leisure activity emerged around the 1780s.
Before the Victorian era, city streets were vastly different from what we see today. London, for instance, was home to an estimated 300,000 horses, leading to the accumulation of over 1,000 tons of horse manure daily. Compounding the issue, hazardous waste was commonly dumped into gutters, creating an unsanitary and malodorous environment. Street cleaners, such as pure finders, collected dog feces and sold them to tanneries. Crossing sweepers, night soil men, and mudlarks were among the individuals who carved out a living by sifting through street waste for any salvageable items.
The dire state of urban streets prompted much-needed social reform and urban planning. As a result, walking in cities today is a far more pleasant experience. However, many of the codes of conduct that governed Victorian pedestrian etiquette remain relevant. For instance, an article published in the London Magazine in 1780 outlined rules of behavior, emphasizing the importance of not staring at passersby as it could be perceived as bullying or intrusive.
Famous literary figures like Charles Dickens greatly contributed to the growing popularity of walking. Dickens, known for his energetic walks, covered an average distance of 12 miles daily at a remarkable pace of over four miles per hour. Walking was an integral part of his creative process, enabling him to absorb the nuances of the streets and populate his novels with vivid characters. Dickens’ dedication to walking and the deep immersion it provided in everyday life helped shape the Victorian cultural landscape.
The influence of the Lake poets, including William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge, also played a significant role in promoting walking as a leisure activity. Their appreciation for nature, particularly the tranquility of the Lake District, led to a resurgence of interest in walking as a means of communing with the natural world. As the romantic ideals of the Lake poets permeated Victorian society, walking became increasingly associated with personal reflection and connection to the environment.
In conclusion, the Victorians played a crucial role in popularizing walking as a recreational pastime. Prior to this era, walking was mainly seen as a necessity rather than a pleasurable activity. However, through the efforts of individuals like Charles Dickens and the Lake poets, the perception of walking shifted, and it became an integral part of Victorian leisure culture. Today, as we enjoy our post-lunch walks through the streets of Britain, we can appreciate the enduring influence of the Victorians on our walking traditions.
Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemicals and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc.
