That's a really good point, though walking the same route several times also gives a different "view" each time.
One thing I often wonder about the South Downs Way is if I'd recognise any of it if I walked East to West. I've only ever walked Eastwards!
Agreed.
I did my Mountain leader training at Glenmore Lodge (Aviemore - Cairngorms) many years ago and the instructor wore sandals all week. I actually do a lot of walking in (Keen) sandals nowadays.
I think 21 miles is more than I'd do on a whim, to be honest, but it's not beyond the realm of...