The Ramblers' 7 Reasons to Walk This Christmas

When the festivities are in full swing and daylight feels fleeting, a winter walk might be the last thing on your mind. But there's a unique magic to stepping out during the holiday season. Just ask our long-standing partners, the Ramblers.

Here, the Ramblers give seven reasons why pulling on your boots and heading outdoors could be the best gift you can give yourself this Christmas.

Walking can be a great way to spend quality time with your loved ones. You’re less likely to be interrupted by Christmas specials on TV, distracted by cooking or looking at all those Christmas messages on your phone. While you're out walking you can even give the gift of a Ramblers membership to your loved one so they can enjoy walking throughout the year.

People walking are often extra friendly around the festive season, wishing each other a Merry Christmas as they pass. Many of the Ramblers walking groups organise guided walks during Christmas. You can find a group walk near you on the Ramblers website.

Birds (including red robins) and other wildlife are easier to see with no leaves on the trees, migratory birds like bramblings and redwings are visiting the UK, and you might see a murmuration of starlings. If you’re by the sea you can sometimes spot seals and their newborn pups.

Christmas is a season of joy and celebration, and with all the festive treats, a refreshing walk can help you feel more balanced and energised. Regular walking isn't only a great way to unwind, but it also supports your long-term health by reducing the risk of illnesses like heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. Discover more about the benefits of walking on the Ramblers website.

Christmas is a joyful time, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. A brisk walk is a wonderful way to lift your spirits, as it encourages your brain to release endorphins - the feel-good chemicals that boost your mood. Plus, even a little natural light can trigger serotonin production, supporting a healthy sleep cycle and helping you recharge after festive late nights. Explore how walking can benefit your mental health on the Ramblers website.

Walking is the perfect way to shop locally for Christmas gifts or to visit your local cafe or pub to warm up and refresh. Read about some of the Ramblers’ favourite pub walks here.

Walks don’t have to be in the countryside, or the daytime - you can walk around your local town and city to see the Christmas lights as night falls!

A Christmas walk is a wonderful way to embrace the festive spirit, even amid busy celebrations and colder, shorter days. From spending uninterrupted quality time with loved ones to spotting winter wildlife, a stroll offers countless rewards. Whether exploring Christmas lights in town or enjoying a guided group walk with the Ramblers, stepping outside this holiday season is a gift for both body and soul.

Find more inspiration for your Christmas walks.

And see the Ramblers’ tips on winter walk safety.