It is named in memory of Mary, Lady Towneley, who drew attention to the poor state of England's bridleways and the need for a long-distance route for horse-riders by riding with two friends in September 1986 from Hexham in Northumberland to Ashbourne in Derbyshire.
The path is named after Mary, Lady Towneley, who brought to light the poor state of England's bridleways and the need for a lengthy route for horseback riders by going on a ride with two companions in September 1986 from Hexham in Northumberland to Ashbourne in Derbyshire.