Festival of Winter Walks

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

January 1, 1935

The Ramblers Association

The Ramblers Association is established.

1938

The Ramblers in Liverpool

The first Ramblers office is set up in Liverpool.

2000

CROW

The Countryside and Rights of Way Act secures public access to mountains, moors, heaths, and downland.

2011

Breach Out Campaign

The Ramblers launch Breach Out to contest the Forestry Commission’s plans to sell off publicly-accessible woodlands.

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.