Five walks to try in October
Walking is a great way to get more regular exercise and boost your wellbeing – plus it’s free! Our annual Walktober challenge is all about getting your steps up and discovering the many benefits of walking and being outdoors.
Together with walking app Go Jauntly, we’ve created a collection of local walking routes and challenges to help you walk to wellbeing in October and beyond. Each of the challenges is themed around the NHS’ 5 steps to mental wellbeing, which demonstrate simple actions we can all take to feel healthier and happier. Simply download Go Jauntly from the App Store or Google Play and try out one of the below walks or discover the many other inspiring routes in the app. You can also share your favourite walks with others by creating your own routes on the app for everyone else to enjoy – click here find out more about this function, which is now available for both iPhone and Android users.
Walking is a great sociable activity and all of these walks would be ideal to enjoy with family and friends. However please remember to keep to the ‘rule of six’ and follow social distancing guidance while mixing with people not in your household or bubble. These restrictions apply to Hampshire and may vary in other parts of the country. To check your local COVID alert level and the restrictions that apply in your area, use the Government's postcode checker.
Don’t forget to let us know if you try any of the below walks out and share your pictures with us tagging @MyJourneyHants and @Gojauntly using #Walktober.
Challenge: Connect
This year especially has taught us that building strong connections with the people around us can help us to feel happier and more secure. Take our Get Connected challenge and encourage your family and friends to join you on this route. You get to reconnect and spend time with your favourite people whilst out on a rather beautiful walk.
Time/distance: 1hr 15 mins/3.4km
This circular route in Totton will take you past a pub, through Tide Mill and across to Goatee Beach for epic views over Southampton’s water. Why not also visit Eling church en route?
Challenge: Be active
Being active is shown to improve your mental wellbeing and walking is a fun, free and easy way to do this. If you work in Southampton city centre and you’re keen to get more exercise into your day, take our Be active challenge and try out this short, central route on your lunch break.
Time/distance: 30 mins/1.0km
Trace Southampton’s history with a walk along the old city walls from Mayflower Park to Bargate.
Challenge: Keep learning
Learning new skills can give you a sense of achievement and help you build your confidence. Take our Keep learning challenge and delve into the city’s maritime past on this historical walk through the city.
Time/distance: 45 mins/2.4km
Titanic left Southampton in 1912. Take this tour around some of the historical landmarks across the city.
Challenge: Give to others
Even the smallest act of kindness can make you feel good and improve your mental wellbeing. Take our Give to others challenge and invite a friend to join you on this walk.
Time/distance: 1hr/2.9km
Enjoy culture, sip coffee, admire architecture, notice nature and learn about Southampton’s history on this stroll through the city’s parks.
Challenge: Be mindful
Being more aware of the present moment can help you stay grounded. Walking, getting outdoors and being in nature are great ways to help you be more mindful and notice the world around you. Take our Be mindful challenge and escape everyday stresses on this calming walk.
Time/distance: 20 mins/0.7km
Bring a friend or let the kids enjoy stomping in the mud on this nature filled, mini stroll around Swaythling.