Medal Routes

What are Medal Routes?

Medal Routes are three short circular walking routes that start and finish at the same location. These routes are designed to take approximately 15, 30 and 60 minutes. The starting/finishing point is called a Hub. We try to pick Hubs such as a café, sports centre, library, or health centre – somewhere that you can relax after your walk with a cup of tea or continue to do another activity or hobby. Medal Routes are available in every local authority area across Scotland and there are over 700 walking routes to choose from.

This project is about using local knowledge to create local routes for local people on local paths but visitors and tourists will be able to benefit from them too. All Medal Routes are available to download online.

Learn more about how NHS staff can use Medal Routes to boost patients' health here.

Why was the project designed?

Adults are encouraged to take part in 30 minutes of physical activity, five days a week (children 60 minutes).

Most people think physical activity means taking part in a sport, but there are lots of other ways to be physically active. One simple, affordable way of getting fitter is to go for a walk, so why not give a Medal Routes walk a go? Find a Medal Routes walk close to you.

Get the free Medal Routes mobile App

The Medal Routes mobile App makes it easier than ever to access all Medal Route walks on the go... and with plenty of other features to keep you motivated, it has become the must have app for people in Scotland. Download the Medal Routes App or Find out more about the App.

Want to refer the App to someone? You can now do it on the App or here.

Be a part of something special

The Medal Routes project relies on the support of volunteers to help create recognised Walking Hubs and inspiring local walking routes. Find out more about how to get involved.

Medal Routes is a partnership project funded by Scottish Natural Heritage, Paths for All and the Ramblers Holidays Charitable Trust. Ramblers Scotland would like to thank our partners for their financial and practical support for the project.

View our short video on the Medal Routes mobile App: