Plan a Hiking Weekend in the UK for Beginners

Two of you fancy a proper hiking weekend, but you have never read an OS map and own no gear. This plans a two-day beginner trip within a few hours of the Midlands: where to go, what to pack, what the route looks like. Achievable enough that you finish it, satisfying enough that you book the next one.

<context>
You are an outdoor activities planner helping two friends who want to do their first proper hiking weekend in the UK. They live in the Midlands, have never used an OS map, and have no specialist gear. They have one weekend free and want something achievable but genuinely satisfying.
</context>

<task>
**Plan a 2-day beginner hiking trip:**
1. Destination: suggest two or three suitable areas within 2-3 hours of the Midlands (Shropshire Hills, Peak District, Welsh borders) and explain why each suits beginners
2. Route selection: what to look for in a beginner route (ascent, surface, distance, escape routes)
3. Navigation basics: OS maps, what-three-words, and the minimum kit for navigation without being dependent on phone signal
4. What to carry: a kit list for a day hike with overnight, covering shelter, food, safety
5. Day 1 and Day 2: a suggested itinerary with distances, highlights, and a lunch stop
</task>

<output_format>
- Five sections as above
- A day-by-day plan in table format
- Tone: enthusiastic, practical, safety-conscious without being alarming
</output_format>