In The Proclaimers’ famous 1988 single “I’m Gonna Be (500 miles)”, the Scottish duo committed themselves to walking 500 miles, and indeed 500 more, out of devotion to their love.
But where could that have taken them?
Based on the radial distance from Leith where the two were born, we can estimate what countries the pair could’ve passed by, even which one had the door at which they fell down.
However, best to point out now this estimation does not consider real world factors like road curves or seas blocking The Proclaimers’ route (indeed they cannot walk on water.)
With that said, here are thirteen countries The Proclaimers could have landed in if they walked 500 miles, and then 500 more.
9. Iceland
Fun fact: did you know that Iceland was the last place on Earth to be inhabited by humans? No doubt some budding ancestors also embarked on a journey of thousands of miles in order to eventually arrive there. Photo: Rolf_52 (via Canva) / Yui Mok (PA)
10. Czech Republic
Known as the 'castle capital of the world' (since it hosts over 2000 castles or castle ruins) the Czech Republic boasts great beauty. This includes being surrounded by mountains. What better way to prove your devotion to your love by not just walking but scaling those miles? Photo: martin-dm (via Canva) / Ian West (PA)
11. Poland
After 1000 miles from Scotland you would be treated by world-class history, culture and traditions in Poland. Impressively, the country has 16 World Heritage sites. This makes it a solid choice for the door to fall down at. Photo: ImmortalShots - Everyday (via Canva) / Ian West (PA)
12. Sweden
Back to Scandinavia, the 1,000-mile radius could take The Proclaimers to the gorgeous Sweden. When you consider its vast array of stunning landscapes and friendly people, it's not too different to Scotland, so the pair would feel right at home. Photo: tmuehlbacher (via Canva) / Andrew Milligan (PA)