Why walking is so good for us
Walking regularly can do wonders for our mental and physical health. It can really help with living a happier, healthier life.
People that are active regularly have up to a 30% reduced risk of becoming depressed. In older people, staying active can:
- Improve cognitive function
- Improve memory
- Improve attention and processing speeds
- Reduce the risk of mental decline and dementia
Doctors recommend a minimum of 150 minutes of activity a week (or 30 minutes a day 5 x per week) but despite all the great benefits, many people do much less than this. Moving more and getting more active can be difficult for some people but we can help.
How we can help you with waking more, more often
By joining in with our Walking for Health Programme you can take part in short local walks to help get you active and stay active at a pace that works for you.
Our health walks are a great way to stretch your legs, explore your local area and make new friends. From reducing stress and losing weight, to sharing laughs, our Walking for Health guided walks offer something for everyone.
Bury Walking and Cycling Community Group
The Bury Walking & Cycling Community Group has been created to provide a platform for effective communication and collaboration between the public and Bury Council to work in partnership to support and develop walking and cycling opportunities across the Bury borough.
Learn more about the group via their Facebook page:
Want to get started with walking for your health?
Walks led by volunteer walk leaders take place every week throughout the year. Find walking opportunities suitable for you:
- Ramblers Wellbeing Walks Bury website
- Greenmount Village Walking Group
- Reconnect to Radcliffe Walks
- Greater Manchester Walking
- Bury Walking Group
- Bury HF Walking Group
- Radcliffe Ladies Walk and Talk Group
- Bury u3a
Lines Walk and Talk
Enjoy a gentle walk along The Lines and a brew and a chat in a local café. Please wear appropriate, comfortable footwear and clothing, including a waterproof coat.
- When: Every second and fourth Tuesday of the month, starting at 10.45am
- Where: (Meet outside) Tower Family Healthcare - Tottington Site, 16 Market Street, Tottington, Bury, BL8 4AD
- Contact: For more information, please email gmicb-bu.socialprescribing@nhs.net or contact Demi on 07713 750459
Walks for All Prestwich
A social stroll to the Lakeside Café in Heaton Park. Returning to Whittaker Lane Medical Centre afterwards.
- When: Every second and fourth Thursday of every month at 2pm
- Where: Meet outside Whittaker Lane Medical Centre, Prestwich, M25 1EX
- Contact: Julie Marshall, Social Prescriber - julie.marshall63@nhs.net or call 07713 750 458 or Allan Shalks - amshalks@yahoo.co.uk
Church Lane Walks
Enjoy an hours walk in and around Prestwich Clough before returning to Church Lane Community Centre where if you like you can join our social prescribing drop in for lunch, a brew, chat and find out more about local activities.
- When: Every Tuesday at 12pm
- Where: Church Lane Community Centre, Church Lane, Prestwich
- Contact: Ask for Robin (social prescribing volunteer) on arrival
Walking resources
Explore local greenspaces by using the below resources and maps: