- Categories:
- Special Interest
- Tags:
- Lifestyle
- Where:
- United Kingdom
- Date change rule:
- Third Saturday of December to the First Sunday of January
- Holiday emoji:
- 🚶♀️
The Festival of Winter Walks encourages people across the U.K. to embrace the outdoors and explore nature from December 19, 2026, to January 3, 2027. Organized by the Ramblers, this annual event promotes health and well-being during the festive season. Lace up your boots, find a local route, and discover the joy of winter rambling.
Want to sponsor Festival of Winter Walks? Learn how
Expected Festival of Winter Walks Deals
While specific 2027 promotions are yet to be announced, the Festival of Winter Walks typically inspires deals on outdoor essentials. Look for discounts from retailers like Go Outdoors, Cotswold Outdoor, and Mountain Warehouse on hiking boots, waterproof jackets, and thermal wear. Brands such as Osprey and Deuter may offer promotions on backpacks, while health food stores like Holland & Barrett could feature energy bars and hydration solutions. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as December 19 approaches.
Platform Guide for Festival of Winter Walks
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #WinterWalks. Share stunning photos of frosty landscapes and your favorite walking trails.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #WinterWalks. Create short videos showcasing beautiful winter scenery or tips for staying warm on a walk.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #WinterWalks. Share local walking event details or invite friends to join your next outdoor adventure.
Festival of Winter Walks Hero
Alfred Wainwright
History of Festival of Winter Walks
The Ramblers is a charitable organization that aims to protect the ability of people to enjoy “a sense of freedom and the benefits that come from being outdoors on foot.” It brings individuals and groups together to enjoy walking and ensures the protection and expansion of the infrastructure of these areas. The organization’s initial objective was to ensure access to the countryside for the general public.
By law, the Ramblers organization in England and Wales needs to be consulted before there are any changes to walking paths. The organization has hundreds of volunteers looking after thousands of miles of walking paths. The organization also works to protect the places their walking paths cross, mainly in the countryside and in urban green spaces. They do this through active collaboration with other organizations with similar goals, as well as local communities.
Take this holiday season to enjoy the wonders of nature and get together with friends and family members. What better way to celebrate the holidays than enjoying yourself outdoors? Not only is it a great cause, but it’s a great way to be active!
Festival of Winter Walks timeline
The Ramblers Association is established.
The first Ramblers office is set up in Liverpool.
The Countryside and Rights of Way Act secures public access to mountains, moors, heaths, and downland.
The Ramblers launch Breach Out to contest the Forestry Commission’s plans to sell off publicly-accessible woodlands.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Festival of Winter Walks
Local businesses can embrace the Festival of Winter Walks by offering special promotions to walkers. Cafes and pubs along popular routes could provide ‘walker’s warm-up’ deals on hot drinks and hearty meals. Outdoor gear shops might host workshops on winter hiking safety or offer discounts on essential equipment. Even B&Bs can attract participants with ‘walking holiday’ packages, highlighting nearby scenic trails and cozy accommodations.
Festival of Winter Walks FAQs
When is Festival of Winter Walks?
The Festival of Winter Walks 2026 runs from Saturday, December 19, 2026, through Sunday, January 3, 2027, offering two weeks of guided and self-guided outdoor adventures.
How many people participate in the Festival of Winter Walks?
Annually, thousands of people across the U.K. participate in the Festival of Winter Walks, with numbers varying depending on weather and local event offerings. The Ramblers organize hundreds of walks, drawing a significant turnout.
What is The Ramblers organization?
The Ramblers is a British charity that champions walking for health and enjoyment, working to protect footpaths and promote access to green spaces. They organize thousands of walks each year, including this festive event.
What are the benefits of winter walking?
Winter walking offers numerous benefits, including improved physical fitness, enhanced mood, and a unique opportunity to experience nature’s serene beauty. The crisp air and quiet landscapes provide a refreshing escape.
Festival of Winter Walks Activities
Join a walk
Join a Ramblers walk this holiday season. Enjoy the outdoors and celebrate with friends!
Volunteer
Volunteer with the Ramblers to help the organization with its mission. Any time spent will be appreciated.
Talk about it on social media
Help spread awareness by talking about the festival on social media. Start an online conversation.
5 Interesting Facts About Walking
Popularity
Walking is the most popular exercise in the United States.
Average speed
The average walking speed is 3.1 miles per hour.
Average distance
On average, a person walks about 65,000 miles during their lifetime.
Mood elevation
Walking helps boost your mood by increasing blood flow to the brain.
Curbing emissions
Walking for about 10 miles per week, instead of traveling by vehicle, would save 500 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions each year.
Why We Love Festival of Winter Walks
It’s a great opportunity to walk
Walking is great for you. The Festival of Winter Walks is a good opportunity to get some more walking in.
It can be a good break
The holidays can be a bit overwhelming. The Festival of Winter Walks offers a break from the hustle and bustle.
It contributes to the Ramblers' mission
The Ramblers have a very noble mission. Participating in the Festival of Winter Walks ultimately helps it.
Festival of Winter Walks dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | December 20 | Saturday |
| 2026 | December 19 | Saturday |
| 2027 | December 18 | Saturday |
| 2028 | December 16 | Saturday |
| 2029 | December 15 | Saturday |
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