Dickens was famous for his long walks through London and the countryside, often exceeding 20 miles in a single day. He believed walking cleared his mind and inspired scenes, characters, and dialogue. Some of his most vivid descriptions of streets, markets, and people came from these wandering marathons. His pace was so fast that locals struggled to keep up with him. Walking also helped him manage the stress of deadlines and dense urban life. He combined exercise with observation, turning ordinary strolls into intense creative sessions. His habit reflected Victorian values of discipline, exploration, and personal health.
Long walks influenced Dickens’ storytelling style, giving him a detailed eye for human behavior and city life. The kinetic energy of walking translated into dynamic prose that kept readers hooked.
It reminds us that physical activity can fuel creativity and that Victorian authors often used daily habits to inspire artistry.
Percy walked more than most office workers today, proving Dickens’ work ethic was legendary—and exhausting.
[Biography.com, biography.com]