Festival of Winter Walks
| From 20th December 2025 to 5th January 2026, the countryside, parks, and footpaths of the UK will come alive with the Festival of Winter Walks. This cherished seasonal tradition encourages people of all ages to explore the outdoors during the colder months. |
A Celebration of Walking in Winter
| The Festival of Winter Walks was created to inspire people to make the most of the crisp air and quieter trails that winter offers. While many people associate hiking and rambles with spring and summer, the festival showcases the unique beauty and charm of winter walking. From glittering frost covered fields to quiet woodland paths, winter reveals a serene and magical landscape. It invites a slower pace, deeper reflection, and a fresh appreciation for nature in its most peaceful form. Throughout this time, you will see events/features such as: Guided group walks for varying abilities. From gentle strolls to longer countryside hikes. Family friendly routes with shorter distances and engaging scenery. Themed walks focusing on history, wildlife, or festive sights. Social walks that end with a warm drink by a fire or a festive gathering. Walks will take place in urban parks, rural countryside, and along coastal paths, with many routes chosen to highlight seasonal beauty. Think holly berries in the hedgerows, misty riverbanks, and perhaps even a dusting of snow. Health, Connection, and Discovery Beyond the obvious physical benefits of walking, the festival promotes mental wellbeing and social connection. Walking in a group, chatting as you go or pausing to admire a view can be uplifting during winter’s darker days. It also offers an opportunity to discover new places close to home or further afield. Often with knowledgeable walk leaders sharing stories and insights along the way. Tips for Taking Part If you’re planning to join a walk: Dress in layers so you can adjust to changing weather. Wear waterproof footwear suitable for mud or frost. Bring a hot drink in a flask for a morale boosting stop. Check walk details in advance such as distances, terrain, and meeting points. A Seasonal Tradition Worth Keeping The Festival of Winter Walks is more than just a calendar of events. It’s an invitation to step outside, slow down, and savour the magic of winter landscapes. Whether you’re seeking solitude or lively company on a festive group walk, this time offers the perfect excuse to wrap up and head outdoors. Embrace the season one step at a time. |
| We’ve got a range of fully accredited training courses in 2026 where you can earn a qualification upon completion. Book now, or get in touch for more info. |
A Spotlight On… Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
Excessive sweating is common and can affect the whole body or just certain areas. Sometimes it gets better with age but there are things you can try to help.
What is excessive sweating?
It’s normal to sweat if you get hot or do exercise. However, you may be sweating excessively if you’re sweating when your body does not need to cool down.
Excessive sweating can happen for no obvious reason, because of another condition you may have, or as a side effect of a medicine you’re taking.
Ways to help with excessive sweating
Do:
- wear loose-fitting clothes to minimise signs of sweating
- wear socks that absorb moisture and change your socks at least twice a day if possible
- wear leather shoes and try to wear different shoes day to day
Don’t:
- do not wear tight clothes or synthetic fabrics – for example, nylon
- do not wear enclosed boots or sports shoes that may cause your feet to sweat more
- do not do things that might make your sweating worse – for example, drinking alcohol or eating spicy food
A pharmacist may help with excessive sweating
Speak to the pharmacist about what you may purchase without a prescription, such as:
soap substitutes that are gentler on your skin
stronger antiperspirants instead of deodorant
armpit or sweat shields to protect your clothing
foot powders for sweaty feet
See a GP if you’re sweating excessively and:
- things you can do yourself are not helping
- it’s lasted for at least 6 months
- it stops you from getting on with your daily activities
- it happens at night (you’re having night sweats)
- you’re taking medicine for another condition
More information
