As we mark Mental Health Awareness Week during National Walking Month, it’s an ideal time to highlight how a simple activity such as a walk can have a powerful impact on how we feel.
Across Lincolnshire, a growing number of walking communities are helping people feel more connected and improve their mental wellbeing. These groups not only use walks as a form of physical activity, but to reduce isolation and encourage open conversations.
Lincolnshire Girls Who Walk
Arianne Davey launched Lincolnshire Girls Who Walk (orginally Walk & Brekkie Club) in September 2023 to help women get outdoors, stay active and build new friendships.
The club meets for regular social walks around Lincoln, followed by a chat and food in a local coffee shop. Plus, walks have recently started talking place in Stamford. It has quickly become a supportive community focused on wellbeing, encouraging women to exercise, enjoy the outdoors and connect with others in a relaxed, pressure-free setting.
Arianne says walking makes socialising feel more natural, especially for people who find meeting new people uncomfortable at first. By the end of each walk, members often feel more relaxed chatting over coffee together. Alongside regular walks, the group also organises activities including longer hikes and Pilates sessions.
Find out more by following them on instagram @lincolnshiregirlswhowalk
She Moves Community
The She Moves Community is a women’s only community that promotes wellbeing through walks and wellbeing events. What began as a personal way to cope with everyday pressures for founder Ella, has since grown into a community.
Formerly known as Girls that Hike, the group rebranded after recognising the importance of different forms of movement for mental wellbeing. Ella, explains how walking became her form of therapy, helping her clear her mind, build structure and reconnect with the outdoors. This personal coping strategy soon turned into a shared experience, with others joining for the same reasons.
Men Walking and Talking Lincoln
Men Walking and Talking Lincoln is a male-only community that recognises how difficult it can be for men to talk openly about their mental health. Launched in January this year, the group offers a free, non-judgemental and peer-supported space.
The group meets every Wednesday at 6.30pm in Lincoln’s Cornhill Quarter, providing a chance to walk while conversations unfold naturally. The focus is not on fixing problems, but on listening, supporting and showing up.
Walking and Talking in Nature
Walking and Talking in Nature is a supportive group, run by NW Counselling that brings people together through leisurely walks and conversation. Led by a qualified counsellor, the sessions create a safe and welcoming space to build meaningful connections while incorporating mindfulness techniques and therapeutic support.
Held every Tuesday from 10:30am to 12:30pm at Hartsholme Park, the group offers an opportunity to meet others and take time to focus on your wellbeing in an outdoor setting.
The sessions are free and open to everyone, but attendees are asked to book in advance via Eventbrite.
Lincolnshire Co-op Wellbeing walks
These are volunteer-led coordinated walks across Lincolnshire that work under the national Ramblers Wellbeing Walks Scheme. The walks are run by specially trained volunteer leaders, who are on hand to provide encouragement and support. All walks are free of charge and open to everyone, but are particularly suited to beginners or those in need of gentler works.
Walk & Talk Wellbeing Walks, Gainsborough
New ‘Walk & Talk’ Wellbeing Walks are now taking place on the first Friday of the month from Gainsborough Leisure Centre. Organised by Chris the Mindset Coach, The walks are supported by Mindset Mentors and walk leaders.
The walks are moderately paced and with reasonable gradients but still challenging your level of fitness. The walks last around 40 mins and finish with a chat and a hot drink and biscuits.
Walking communities that welcomes everyone
One of the most powerful aspects of these communities is their inclusivity. There are often no expectations around fitness levels or prior experience. Many people attend alone for the first time but quickly find a friendly and supportive environment waiting for them.
While the physical benefits of walking are well known, the mental impacts can stretch further.
Being part of communities like these can offer:
- A sense of belonging
- Opportunities to build friendships
- A chance to reconnect with nature
For many, these walks become an adventure to look forward to each week and a positive routine that supports both mental and physical wellbeing.
Why walking matters this month
During National Walking Month and Mental Health Awareness Week, these communities remind us that moving more doesn’t have to mean intense exercise or major commitments. Sometimes it’s simply about stepping outside, taking a breath of fresh air and spending time with others who understand.
Find out more about getting started Walking in Lincolnshire on our Walking pages