Looking for a way to get outside and explore the beauty of the UK? There's no time like the present, as May marks National Walking Month. Take your pick of the walking festivals and events taking place across the country this month.

Walk this way! May is National Walking Month in the UK. This annual celebration of walking encourages people to walk more throughout May. The campaign was launched by the charity organisation, Living Streets, in 2011 to promote walking as a simple and effective way to improve health and well-being. Since then, National Walking Month has grown in popularity, with more and more people participating each year.

Walking is a great way to stay active and healthy. It can help reduce the risk of chronic illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Regular walking can also help improve mental health by reducing stress and anxiety and boosting mood and self-esteem.

During National Walking Month, various walking events and festivals take place across the UK. These events provide opportunities for people to discover new walking routes, meet other walkers, and take part in activities such as guided walks, nature walks, and heritage walks.  

Bathscape Walking Festival features a range of guided walks through the beautiful landscapes surrounding the city of Bath. These walks offer the chance to explore historic sites, wildlife habitats, and local food and drink producers.  

Chilterns Walking Festival offers a wide range of walks for all abilities, from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes. The festival takes place in the Chiltern Hills, officially known as an ‘Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty’, renowned for its rolling hills, chalk streams, and ancient woodlands.  

Isle of Wight Walking Festival is an annual event that attracts walkers from all over the UK. The festival features a range of guided walks, including coastal walks, countryside rambles, and pub walks, as well as themed walks that explore the island's history and culture.

Norfolk Walking and Cycling Festival is another popular event that takes place in May. The festival offers a range of guided walks and cycling routes throughout the Norfolk countryside, including the Norfolk Broads National Park and the North Norfolk coast.

Northumberland Walking Festival offers a variety of walks through the stunning landscapes of Northumberland National Park. The festival features guided walks led by local experts and rangers, as well as self-guided walks that allow walkers to explore at their own pace.

Glasgow Walking Festival is an annual event that offers a range of walks throughout the city and surrounding countryside. The festival features walks of varying lengths and difficulty levels, including urban walks, park walks, and hikes in the nearby hills and mountains.  

Keswick Mountain Festival takes place in the Lake District each May and features a range of outdoor activities, including guided walks and hikes. The walks explore the stunning landscapes of the Lake District, including hikes up some of the area's most famous peaks. The festival also includes live music, sports events, and a food and drink village.

Moray Walking and Outdoor Festival is held in Moray, Scotland, and offers a range of guided walks, cycling tours, and outdoor activities for all ages and abilities. The walks explore the stunning coastline, forests, and hills of Moray, and include themes such as wildlife spotting, history and heritage, and whisky tasting. The festival also includes workshops and talks on a range of outdoor topics, from photography to navigation skills.

Whether you're a seasoned walker or just starting out, National Walking Month is a great time to get out and explore the UK on foot, all while improving your health. So lace up your walking shoes and join in on the many events and festivals taking place across the country this month.