Karl Bushby blocked from completing world walk at English Channel

British adventurer Karl Bushby, who has been walking around the world since 1998, is currently facing an obstacle in the Pas-de-Calais region of France. After traveling approximately 50,000 kilometers without using any form of transport, the 57-year-old former paratrooper is attempting to reach his home in Hull, England.

Bushby’s journey has been hindered by administrative hurdles regarding the crossing of the English Channel. His request to walk through the Channel Tunnel was rejected, and his subsequent plan to swim the distance between Calais and Dover was also denied. He is currently working against a deadline of October 1, after which deteriorating weather conditions may make a crossing impossible.

Throughout his 28-year expedition, Bushby has adhered to two strict rules: using no motorized transport and not returning home until the journey is completed on foot or by swimming. His progress has previously been interrupted for several years due to visa denials in Moscow, the 2008 financial crisis, and the COVID-19 pandemic.