When Paul set out to walk the Wolds Way, he thought it would be a nice, leisurely stroll through his own backyard. Spoiler alert: it was anything but. Starting at the Humber Estuary in the middle of winter, Paul soon discovered that the Wolds were home to a treasure trove of bizarre history, eccentric people, and enough oddities to make you question everything.

Joined by his trusty sidekicks, Rob and Chris, they set off through the dales and valleys, uncovering an ancient land with more secrets than an old man’s attic. From an unsolved archaeological mystery (because of course) to abandoned tunnels, stately homes, and deserted medieval villages, this wasn’t just a walk—it was an unexpected historical adventure.

But wait, there’s more! Along the way, Paul stumbles upon connections to airships—or more accurately, airship disasters (because why not add some explosive history?). There are also submarine links, because why should airships get all the fun?

And as if that wasn’t enough, prepare for some seriously wild stuff. Zombies (yep), ancient barrows, and a tale of Victorian archaeologists plundering them. Add to that the world’s oldest horse race, a disastrous Arctic explorer, and probably the most reckless man in British naval history.

The whole thing is wrapped up in one of England’s most accessible and stunningly beautiful landscapes, just begging to be explored—and Paul has made sure you get all the juicy details.

This is Paul’s fifth book in his History Walks series, following the success of 54 Degrees North, Rambling On, Coast to Coast, and Hadrian’s Wall. Each book can be enjoyed in any order, but why not start here and see where his shenanigans lead next?

Paul Amess was born and bred in Yorkshire and spent years traveling the world, only to realize that the best place to be was literally right on his doorstep. These days, he spends his time walking England, learning quirky history, and meeting the kind of strange people that make you question humanity. Oh, and he spends a lot of time lost, too.