Mary-Ann Ochota

Ten things you should have in your rucksack

Mary-Ann Ochota looks at the equipment mountain marathon runners use to compete in the challenging Dragon’s Back Race. It’s a good starting point to think about what to take when you're hillwalking – whether you’re planning 100km or 10km!

11 Ways to Spruce Up the New Years Day Walk

It’s easy to feel like the family festive walk is an ordeal that has to be suffered, rather than a pleasurable way to spend time outside. But if you make it out you’ll reap the benefits – fresh air, a bit of time away from screens, and some gentle (or vigorous!) exercise can ease the strains of the holiday season. Instead of arguing or getting stressed, get outside instead! Here are my favourite ideas to beat the winter blues and transform a boring winter walk into a fun-filled mini-adventure:

Why I've fallen in love with a running race that I'll never enter

Mary-Ann Ochota looks at the amazing Dragon’s Back Race, challenging runners to cover 315km of some of the countries toughest routes.

How to spot history in your OS map

Mary-Ann Ochota, OS GetOutside Champion & author of Hidden Histories: A Spotter’s Guide to the British Landscape reveals some of the most common archaeological clues you’ll spot on an OS map.

​How do I spot an Ancient Woodland?

Wandering through a wood can be magical and feel totally wild. But most woodlands in Britain are shaped by human hands – and there are clues that reveal their hidden histories.

The history of pub names

History-lover and GetOutside Champion Mary-Ann Ochota explores some of the history behind Britain's much loved pub names – and ways that you can tell what's occurred in the years before.

How to be a Landscape Detective: Six Things to Look For On Your Next Walk

Become a landscape detective and discover the hidden secrets of Britain's past with #GetOutside champion, and anthropology and archaeology specialist, Mary-Ann Ochota.

Night-time adventure racing

#GetOutside champion Mary-Ann Ochota tries grueling night time adventure racing (cycling, orienteering, and running) in the Surrey countryside!

Mending Britain's mountains with the BMC

More people are enjoying the Great British countryside, but this is having a knock on effect on the environment. The BMC need your help to mend Britain's mountains - and there's some great rewards on offer!

A run with a twist - hunting posts in Hampstead Heath

I really like going for muddy trail runs with the dog (much better than pounding the pavement), and like discovering new outdoor areas. Add a treasure-hunt style challenge and voilà, you’re orienteering. You don’t need any technical kit, it’s very affordable and there are events held most weekends in rural and urban areas, as well as dozens of fixed courses in forests and parks across Britain that are FREE. It’s one of the most fun ways to get outside for a few hours.