It’s National Waking Month, a time to raise awareness of the health and happiness benefits of this beloved British pastime. Walking is widely regarded as one of the best forms of exercise for people of all ages. A gentle form of cardio that is completely free, it encourages people to spend time outdoors socialising, while providing a wealth of health benefits. This includes helping to prevent the risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and certain cancers, as well as positively impacting your mental wellbeing by reducing stress, anxiety and also depression.
To celebrate #WalkThisMay we’ve found some fascinating (and free) trails for you to explore this summer. Where will you wander?
Sandringham's 600 acre Royal Parkland is full of hidden paths to explore, including two way-marked Nature Trails (blue & yellow) and a route around the Arboretum (green). For the more adventurous there's even an orienteering course to attempt! Of course, finishing the day with a stroll by the sea in Hunstanton will top it off perfectly. Visit both on Fri 2 June from £27.50.
Uncover over 900 years of history during a guided walking tour of Southwell Minster – featuring the recently restored (and rather stunning) Chapter House. Then, take a wander along the tranquil pathways at the nearby Swan Sanctuary that’s also home to a well-stocked garden centre. Visit both on our great value two-stopper on Tue 1 Aug @ just £39.50.
Reconnect with nature at one of the most biodiverse places on Earth! This summer, Kew has invited a mix of inspiring leaders to contribute to five new trails through the Gardens. Each trail is made up of invitations from artists, musicians, and environmentalists to feel, hear, move, and think differently in nature. The Wander Project is here until 5 September and included within your entry ticket. Don’t miss our summer visit on Mon 7 Aug from £49.
Love art? Love nature? You’ll love Yorkshire Sculpture Park! Download their map to follow trails through this 500 acre art gallery! This summer the Park is hosting the extraordinary works of Erwin Wurm alongside 100's more famous pieces, including the entire works of Barbara Hepworth’s The Family Man, the only place to see it in Europe! Don’t miss our first ever visit to this destination on Tue 25 Jul from £41.
Visit the medieval market town of Louth and follow a 2 mile Heritage Trail through over 250 listed buildings! Louth is a renowned ‘foodie hotspot’ so expect to find some tasty treats along the way, especially as the lively market will be in full swing today! Visit on Wed 7 Jun from £27.50.
Follow Countryfile's 2.7 mile route around the historical city of Lincoln, taking in the sights of its Gothic cathedral, Norman castle and restored arboretum. In summer 2022, the cathedral emerged from an astonishing 40 year restoration project to the outer brickwork – am impressive site, not to be missed. Look out for tasty food and drink vendors in the Cornhill Quarter too! Visit on Fri 20 October from £27.
A lovely walk runs from the English Heritage Grade II Listed Valley Gardens in Harrogate, up through the Pine Woods to RHS Garden Harlow Carr, taking approximately an hour at a leisurely pace. Enjoy this beautiful route during our two-stop Yorkshire tour to Harrogate with entry to RHS Harlow Carr included. Visit on Mon 31 Jul from £45 with a discount available for RHS Members.
No less than four medieval town walks are free for you to explore around Beverley, one of Yorkshire’s best kept secrets! Uncover Medieval Guilds and Crafts from armourers to hatters and locksmiths to brewers when you download their map. Visit on Wed 2 Aug from £35 and find out for yourself why this beautiful town was voted one of the best places to live in the UK!
Spend a summer’s day exploring the birthplace of Shakespeare, on the banks of the River Avon, and experience some of ‘hidden’ Stratford that might otherwise be missed. The River Walk uncovers the key role that the Avon played in the town’s commercial history whilst the Historic Walk will lead you past endless fascinating ancient buildings. Visit on Thur 17 Aug from £32.50.
Get involved in National Walking Month by booking your next walking adventure with Shaws of Maxey.
