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North Wales Live
18-05-2025
- Health
- North Wales Live
Millions of people at risk of being 'triggered' by pretty Eryri village
It is the self-proclaimed 'loveliest village in Eryri (Snowdonia), a picturesque snug of a place surrounded by dense woodlands, river valleys and meadow-rich landscapes. Yet despite its obvious allure, Beddgelert's natural attractions are also its Achilles' Heel, according to a new study. Each year thousands of visitors are drawn to this small corner of North Wales, nestled amongst the rugged peaks of Yr Wyddfa, Moel Hebog and the Nantlle Ridge. Some are drawn by its mythology, most come just to revel in the tranquillity of a village where time appears to pass more slowly. There are some wonderful walks in the area, not least along the Aberglaslyn gorge: not surprisingly, the area featured in ITV's top 100 walks. But according to a report commissioned by skincare specialists Wild & Wood, Beddgelert's foopaths should come with a health warning. By assessing five environmental factors, such as altitude, vegetation and animal activity, the study concluded Beddgelert is the UK's second worst place for hayfever sufferers. Only Brockenhurst, a New Forest village in Hampshire, ranked worse. To reach this conclusion, all of ITV's top 100 walks were subjected to the same formula. Factors included as tree cover, which can harbour allergens, and wildlife and livestock, which can supposedly stir up pollen. Wild and Wood explained: 'Sheltered environments such as forests and wooded riverbanks trap allergens, while humid air near waterfalls helps pollen cling and persist in the air.' Using similar reasoning, Llangollen Canal's towpaths and footpaths were adjudged 10th worst in Britain for hayfever sufferers. 'Even flat waterside routes offer no guarantee of relief, as adjacent vegetation and lower wind exposure allow pollen to settle along the paths,' said the company. Potentially, the study's conclusions have significant implications. According to research cited by Allergy UK, hayfever affects 26% of adults in the UK – just under 15 million. More recent data suggests the figure could be as high as 49%. By its own admission, the study is not the most scientific – the company stressed actual pollen counts will vary depending on the season and weather conditions. Co-founder Lorna Hirst said it was intended as a guide only, explaining the intention was to 'empower' people to enjoy the outdoors. 'Nature should be healing, not triggering,' she added. Besides, many walking routes around Beddgelert go beyond the treeline and up into the mountains where there's less pollen floating around.. At higher altitudes, vegetation is thinner and stronger winds help disperse any pollen in the air. It makes mountains it a better bet for anyone who struggles with hayfever. Using similar reasoning, the study's 10 best UK walks for hayfever sufferers were all mountains. Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) and Tryfan ranked 9th and 10th respectively, with the Scottish peaks of Ben Macdui and Ben Nevis heading the list. For the study, Wild and Wood used figures from Forna & DEFRA vegetation maps and OS Explorer elevation data. The company also used Met Office pollen forecasts. The forecaster said that, for hayfever sufferers, the weather plays a significant role, and so does individual sensitivity. The Met Office said: 'On humid and windy days, pollen spreads more easily, exacerbating allergies. Conversely, rainy days can help clear pollen from the air, providing some relief. 'Sunny days often have the highest pollen counts in the early evening, which can be particularly challenging for hay fever sufferers. 'It's important to note that individual sensitivity to pollen can vary, so some people may experience symptoms at lower counts while others may tolerate higher levels without issue.' There are around 30 types of pollen known to cause hayfever. However they generally fall into three main categories, explained the Met Office. Tree pollen: This is the first to appear in the pollen season, typically from late March to mid-May. It affects about 25% of people with hayfever. Common culprits include birch, oak, and ash trees. Grass pollen: The most common allergen, affecting the majority of hayfever sufferers. Its season spans from mid-May to July and features two distinct peaks. The first peak is usually in early June, followed by a smaller one in early July. Weed pollen: This can be released at any time from early spring to late autumn. However the main season typically runs from late June through September. Weeds like nettle, mugwort, and plantain are common sources. Climatic factors also have a role in pollen production, said the Met Office. A spokesperson said: 'A warm and wet spring can lead to higher pollen production, while dry and breezy conditions help disperse it into the air. 'Conversely, a cold winter can delay the start of the pollen season by keeping plants dormant longer. Spring rainfall also plays a role in pollen levels as less rain means less pollen.' Those free of hayfever who might be contemplating a walk, should also be aware that dogs can also suffer from pollen allergies. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox High pollen counts can cause irritation and discomfort, causing pets to scratch, rub their ears or bite their paws. 'If you notice these signs, particularly in summer, it's a good idea to consult your vet to check for allergies,' said the Met Office. The forecaster runs a five-day pollen forecast. The good news is that, for the next few days, the outlook is for low levels of pollen at Beddgelert and the rest of Wales.
Daily Record
06-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Record
Hike to iconic Scottish mountain ranked best UK walk for allergy sufferers
Check out the top Scottish walks for hay fever sufferers this summer ranked best to worst New research has ranked the top UK walking routes for hay fever sufferers, revealing which scenic spots are most likely to leave you sneezing, and which could provide welcome relief. The study, conducted by natural skincare specialists Wild & Wood, assessed popular walking routes across the country using environmental factors known to impact hay fever, Scottish Daily Express reported. The research is based on ITV's top 100 UK walks, a list compiled in 2018 by the Ordnance Survey and The Ramblers from a survey of thousands of walkers, and featured in a special programme hosted by Julia Bradbury. Twelve Scottish trails made the list, with each one scored against five key factors: Altitude: Higher ground typically has fewer airborne allergens Coastal wind exposure: Sea breezes help disperse pollen Vegetation levels: Denser plant life means more pollen Woodland density: Trees can trap allergens Animal and insect activity: Livestock and wildlife can stir up pollen Each trail received a score from 1 to 5 for each category, with 5 being the most hay fever-friendly and 1 indicating a high-risk route. An average score was then used to rank the walks overall. At the top of the hay fever-friendly list are two of Scotland's most iconic peaks, Ben Macdui and Ben Nevis. Both scored an impressive 4.8 out of 5, thanks to their exposed, high-altitude locations with minimal vegetation and low allergen levels. Close behind is Stac Pollaidh, known for its rugged ridgeline and strong winds, which earned a 4.6. Also ranking highly is the Silver Sands of Morar (4.2), a picturesque beach trail where coastal winds help keep pollen levels low. Other Scottish walks that scored well include the Fife Coastal Path (4.0), offering refreshing sea breezes, and The Fairy Pools on the Isle of Skye (3.2), which is more open but still has some vegetation. Urban-adjacent routes like Arthur's Seat (3.0) and the Falkirk Wheel and The Kelpies (3.2) also made the list, with moderate hay fever exposure due to landscaped and grassy areas. Meanwhile, long-distance routes like the West Highland Way and Great Glen Way scored slightly lower at 3.0 and 2.6 respectively, as they pass through moorlands and wooded stretches with potential for moderate pollen exposure. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. At the bottom of the list sits the Falls of Clyde walk, which received a hay fever score of 2.0 out of 5, making it the least allergy-friendly trail in Scotland. The route is densely wooded and rich in plant life, contributing to its high pollen potential. Here's a breakdown of the full scores for Scotland's 12 featured walks: Ben Macdui – 4.8 Ben Nevis – 4.8 Stac Pollaidh – 4.6 Silver Sands of Morar – 4.2 Fife Coastal Path – 4.0 Falkirk Wheel & The Kelpies – 3.2 The Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye – 3.2 Arthur's Seat – 3.0 West Highland Way – 3.0 Pitlochry to Blair Atholl – 2.8 Great Glen Way – 2.6 Falls of Clyde – 2.0
