Put your best foot forward with ‘Simply Walk’.

Simply Walk, Buckinghamshire Council’s free health walking scheme, has made a welcome return following the latest Coronavirus relaxations that came into force as part of the national roadmap to recovery.

And so far, more than 100 walkers have been out and about every day enjoying various walks across Buckinghamshire and the council say more are welcome to join in. As well as exercise and fresh air, walks are also very social, allowing people to make new friends and enjoy being outdoors.

As in previous lockdowns, many walkers have been isolated for months from their walking friends, but this time, made so much worse by the long, dark winter months. Now, with the better weather and easing of coronavirus restrictions, the chance to get out, stretch your legs and enjoy socially distanced walking with others could be just the tonic!

Buckinghamshire Council’s Fiona Broadbent, coordinator of the Simply Walk scheme, gave full credit to the ongoing enthusiasm, support and fortitude of the army of 274 volunteers who help lead and support all the walks. “Its been a difficult and testing time for them all, but they are no less passionate about what they do to help everyone enjoy walking,” she said.

“As we emerge from the latest lockdown, there’s no better way to get active and get fitter by joining one of our organised walks. After all, they are free to attend, designed to suit all walking abilities and offer the chance to see parts of Buckinghamshire that you’ve possibly never seen before,” she added.

Ian Thompson, the Council’s Corporate Director for Planning, Growth and Sustainability added: “As our organised group walks are categorised as outdoor physical activity, they are allowed under the latest guidance. However, although we’re outdoors, walk leaders have put extra measures in place to reduce the risks of COVID-19.

“You don’t need any special equipment to join in, just a pair of comfortable shoes. And with walking programmes operating all year, including weekends and a variety of walk lengths and locations, there’s never been a better time to start your ‘simply walk’ adventure.”

More information can be found on our Simply Walk webpage. The Council is also on the lookout for more volunteers to lead walking groups, so if you want to make a difference and enjoy yourself at the same time, please get in touch by calling 01494 475367 or email simplywalks@buckinghamshire.gov.uk.