Blogs

As the government publishes its first national strategy on loneliness, at the Ramblers we’re spreading the word about how walking can help people overcome social isolation and improve their emotional, mental and physical wellbeing.

The woods are probably my favourite place to go walking. And autumn is definitely my favourite time of year to head out amongst the trees; crisp leaves rustle, twigs crack and the waning sun paints amazing patterns on the woodland floor.

We are blessed in England and Wales with a fantastic network of paths – nearly 140,000 miles of rights of way (enough to stretch round the earth five times or half way to the moon!). However, there are thousands of historical rights of way which have not been recorded and if they are not claimed by 2026 they will be lost – forever!

I'm a firm believer in not overlooking the things that are, quite possibly, right under your nose. So I was pleased when, in a highly publicised rebranding, the Canals and Rivers Trust (CRT) decided to reaffirm that the waterways are relevant to everyone.

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy evocative coastal walks – from the romance and excitement of hidden coves and secret beaches to the nostalgic sights of the traditional British seaside

From weekend walker to North Pole adventurer. For Misba Khan from Manchester, joining a Ramblers group was the start of an incredible journey that led her all the way to the Arctic.

For those of us who enjoy the countryside, it will come as no surprise that increasing numbers of people have acknowledged a direct link between access to nature and good mental health.

Whether you go with friends, family or a walking group, heading off to the hills for a weekend away can create great memories. But the secret to success is all in the planning…

Kate Ashbrook reflects on Jerry Pearlman - an honorary solicitor for the Ramblers for more than 30 years, taking on countless path battles and campaigneing for freedom to roam on open country.

Parks in towns and cities are the way that most of us engage with and benefit from contact with the natural environment. It is therefore vital that the Government’s 25 year plan to improve the environment must include ambitions for urban settings.