Festival of Winter Walking

Embrace the season

Don’t let the colder weather stop you! Embrace the season, wrap up warm and step outside for an unforgettable winter walk.

During our Festival of Winter Walking, we’re sharing tips, routes and stories to inspire you to make the most of the season.

Find your perfect winter walk

Group of deer standing on snowy hill at sunset in Lyme Park, Derbyshire

9 of the most beautiful winter walks

Wrap up warm and wander among the prettiest landscapes sparkling with frost and bustling with birds and other wildlife.

A boardwalk leading down a tree-lined marsh

Ten Places - Get on board

A well-placed boardwalk can take you safely over boggy terrain, let you explore fragile habitats without causing damage, and many are wheel-friendly too. Discover our pick of Britain’s best boardwalks for exploring marshlands, woodlands and coastlines this autumn.

8 delightful Christmas market walks

Twinkling lights, heartening hot drinks and the tantalising possibility of knocking off your Christmas shopping in one fell swoop – there’s plenty of things to love about a Christmas market.

Why walk in winter?

OK, we know it’s tempting to stay indoors when the temperature plummets, but there are so many great reasons to get outdoors:

1. Seasonal treats are even better after a stomp outdoors

You know a mug of hot chocolate or mulled wine will taste oh so good when you come in from the cold.

2. It will give your mental health and wellbeing a boost

A walk in the fresh air can be the perfect answer to reducing stress levels at a busy time of year.

3. It’s an opportunity to start a new tradition with friends and family

Whatever you’re celebrating, adding a winter walk into the festivities makes the perfect annual tradition.

4. It will help keep you fit during the season of overindulgence

As long as you’re wrapped up warm, getting out in colder weather can help to amplify all the benefits of a good walk.

5. You can discover your local Christmas lights

From the subtle and magical to the weird and wonderful, get out on a walk to see what you can discover.

6. It’s a chance to meet new friends

If you want some company, we’re here for you! Why not join one of our short, free Ramblers Wellbeing Walk.

7. Frost and snow can turn the countryside into a winter wonderland

Don’t miss the opportunity to walk in nature at it’s frosty best.

Get the most out of your winter walks

Two walkers smiling in the rain wearing raincoats and carrying backpacks

How to enjoy your winter walks safely

Read our five tips on how you can stay safe on your winter walks.

A beginner's guide to navigation

Embrace the spirit of adventure with our easy-to-follow video series teaching you everything you need to know about finding your way in the outdoors.

A rural cottage being lit up by the Northern Lights.

6 top tips for planning a stargazing walk

It’s the perfect time of year to go stargazing, spot the Milky Way or be amazed by the Aurora Borealis – also known as the Northern Lights.

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