Silver Adventurers - Best UK Walking Routes for Older Adults

With the Department of Health & Social Care recommending that older adults aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week (1), getting outdoors and going on a gentle walk can be a simple and enjoyable way to stay active.

With this in mind, we have highlighted some of the top walking routes across the UK for older adults to try, including accessible trails and routes suitable for a range of abilities.

Photo by Jonny Gios on Unsplash

Best routes for older adults in the UK

There’s no age limit on getting outdoors, and there are walks up and down the country for people of all abilities to enjoy. From the Tarn Hows Circular Walk in Cumbria, with its beautiful views and relatively gentle route, to the peaceful and scenic Dunmore Trail of Faskally Forest, there’s something for everyone.

For Sheffield-based OS Champion Yvonne Witter, becoming more active outdoors later in life has had a positive impact on both her physical and mental wellbeing.

GO Outdoors spoke to Yvonne about her experiences and how spending more time outdoors has benefited her health and wellbeing.

What caused you to join your local walking group? Was it for health, wellness or to meet new people?

Yvonne responds: “I wanted to be more physically active in the outdoors to manage a health condition and to encourage more people from diverse communities to access the outdoors. I was introduced to OS Maps in 2008 on my first navigation training course.  Ever since, they've accompanied me on countless hikes and have remained an essential item in my rucksack. They are the ultimate guide to exploring the outdoors, and I would highly recommend them.”

How do you feel your life has been impacted by getting outdoors more in later life, and what would you say to people who are a similar age to you?

She adds: “The experience of being out in nature in later life, through running, cycling and walking, has had a very positive impact.  Overcoming obstacles and changing my nervous "I can't" attitude to "I will do it" has developed my confidence in taking on different challenges. For example, running a marathon at the age of 50,  completing the Hathersage Hilly Triathlon in the Peak District National Park, and climbing Snowdon at 61 years old.

“I would say to people who are of a similar age to me: believe in yourself. Join a group if you feel that you are not confident enough to get outdoors on your own, and you will gradually develop the confidence and learn the necessary skills. Age is not a barrier; it is about celebrating the ability to sustain endurance.”

Do you have any tips for people wanting to get outdoors?

Yvonne says: “Be familiar with the outdoor environment for your safety before venturing out, such as planning your route beforehand with the OS Maps app. Start with short walks in your local area or even join a group. And of course, wear affordable clothing and footwear that are comfortable and suitable for outdoor activities.”

Tips on staying safe

For anyone looking to start getting outdoors, preparation is essential. Comfortable, supportive footwear is particularly important for older walkers, especially on uneven or muddy ground. Lightweight and breathable layers will help you stay comfortable throughout the walk. It’s also worth carrying essentials such as water, a fully charged phone and a map or navigation app, so you can enjoy your walk safely and with confidence.

Most importantly, make sure to start at your own pace and choose a route that suits your ability. Getting outdoors is a great way to stay active, enjoy nature and spend time with others, and even a short walk can make a real difference to your physical and mental wellbeing, particularly for older adults.

Methodology

A seed list of recommended accessible and low-impact walking routes was created. Routes were selected based on their suitability for older walkers, taking into account how manageable, accessible and enjoyable each walk is likely to be.

References 

1. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/physical-activity-guidelines-uk-chief-medical-officers-report/uk-chief-medical-officers-physical-activity-guidelines