Ranger-led mindful walks help boost health and well-being

Discover how walking in nature in the Peak District National Park can benefit your health and well-being on guided walks with the National Park rangers.

This Spring, the focus is on being more aware of what’s around you, connecting with nature, and experiencing what’s special in the National Park countryside.

National Park rangers are offering walks that encourage people to step away from the stresses and strains of modern life, to slow down and experience being in the moment.

Ranger Mike Pupius said: “Our mindfulness guided walks introduce you to ways to enhance your enjoyment of the Peak District’s natural beauty and, in turn, gain the health and wellbeing benefits of connecting more deeply with nature in the National Park.”

Sunday 7 May

Connecting with Nature

5 miles. Join National Park rangers at Trentabank to explore parts of Macclesfield Forest and moorland nearby and find ways to be more attentive and aware of its wildlife and history.

Experience forest bathing and practical mindfulness techniques to slow down, refocus and be in the moment, and get even more enjoyment from your visits to the countryside.

£10 per person aged 18 and above. Children aged 17 and below go free with paying adults.

Tuesday 16 May

Mindfulness and Nature Connection Walk

7 miles. Discover the benefits of mindfulness and walking in nature to your health and well-being. Mindfulness trainer and National Park ranger Mike Pupius, and sound expert Charlotte Swain, offer an opportunity to truly appreciate the peace and tranquillity of the upper reaches of the Dove Valley, Sheen Hill, Pilsbury Castle and Carder Low.

No prior knowledge of mindfulness is required as you will be introduced to the techniques which can enhance your health and wellbeing. The walk will start in Hartington village.

£10 per person aged 18 and above. Children aged 17 and below go free with paying adults.

The Spring guided walks programme also includes a walk back in time to Minninglow and Roystone Grange, a history walk around Derwent reservoirs, a wildflower walk, and more.

These events help people gain confidence in exploring the Peak District countryside and safely enjoy the National Park’s wildlife and history.

Most of the walks are suitable for families with children who enjoy a challenge. Kids aged 17 years and below go free with paying adults, and their places must be booked.

Bookings for the walks are online, at www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/events

Friday 19 May

Minninglow and Roystone Grange History and Flowers

4 miles. Step far back in time on a walk starting near Pike Hall along the flower-lined High Peak Trail to ancient, atmospheric Minninglow, where you will visit the Neolithic chambered tomb and Bronze Age barrows. The walk takes in a historic brick kiln and the Roystone Grange settlement.

£10 per person aged 18 and above. Children aged 17 and below go free.

Saturday 20 May

Win Hill - Summit, Woods and Water!

7 miles. Remember to bring binoculars on this challenging walk with wildlife watching opportunities. The Upper Derwent dams create an iconic landscape and this walk looks at how building the dams changed the landscape.

Starting from Heatherdene car park, you will visit old wells, hear the story of Bamford Mill and tales of myth and legend. A gentle start leads to a steep climb of Win Hill giving fantastic views of the Hope Valley and Upper Derwent. On the return you will cross Ladybower Dam with views of the plugholes. Suitable for older children (7+) used to walking similar distances over varied terrain.

£10 per person aged 18 and above. Children aged 17 and below go free with paying adults.

Sunday 14 May 2023   

Spring into the Dales

6.5 miles. Wander through some of the White Peak's beautiful limestone dales to enjoy the wealth of wild flowers, with splendid views and a potted history along the way. The walk starts at Tideswell Dale car park. There is a steep path en route, some paths may be slippery and muddy.

£10 per person aged 18 and above. Children aged 17 and below go free with paying adults.

Bookings for all National Park ranger guided walks are online, at www.peakdistrict.gov.uk/events