May is National Walking Month, a time to celebrate the simple but powerful benefits of getting outside, moving more, and connecting with the world around us.
At Camphill Village Trust, walking is about far more than exercise. It’s about friendship, confidence, wellbeing, and feeling part of something bigger. Across our communities, walking groups have become an important part of everyday life, helping the people we support to live healthier, more active, and more independent lives.
As a social care provider and charity rooted in nature and community, we support adults with learning disabilities, autism and mental health support needs to thrive both at home and in the wider community. Walking plays a big part in that.
Every Wednesday, people we support across our Gloucestershire communities at Oaklands Park and Grange Village come together for the Wayside Wednesday Wanderers.
What began as short daily walks to support health and fitness quickly grew into something much bigger. Now, with up to 20 walkers joining each week, the group heads out to explore the beautiful Forest of Dean, enjoying fresh air, nature, and each other’s company.
For many, it’s the highlight of the week.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to socialise, share stories and enjoy the amazing area we live in. Watching friendships flourish and confidence grow is a privilege,” says Julie.
The group brings together people from different communities, creating space for new friendships and shared experiences.
For those taking part, the benefits are clear:
“I love the countryside and the animals we see.” – Adrian
“I like the laughing and joking.” – Alex
“The exercise is really good for me.” – John
“It gets me outside and I’ve made friends.” – Cona
It’s proof that something as simple as a weekly walk can have a lasting impact.
At Botton Village, weekly walks are part of a much-loved routine.
Each week, the group heads out together for a local adventure, getting their steps in, enjoying the fresh air, and taking time to have a good catch-up along the way. Whether they’re walking across the stunning moorlands or heading to the beach, the landscape around them offers endless opportunities to reconnect with nature.
Set in the heart of the North York Moors, Botton Village is surrounded by open countryside, peaceful woodland, and beautiful coastal routes. These walks aren’t just about where they go, but how they feel while they’re there.
Time outdoors supports better physical and mental wellbeing, helps build confidence, and strengthens a real sense of belonging and community.
It’s a simple routine, but one that brings so much joy.
In St Albans, the walking group began with an idea from Harry and Olivia, two people we support who wanted to create more opportunities to get active together.
Now, the walking club takes place every other Sunday and is run by Olivia, Imogen, and the wider team, with regular walkers including Alex and Steve, and sometimes Maisy joining too.
Routes change each time, keeping things fresh and exciting. This Sunday, the group is welcoming Maxine along for a walk around Bernard Heath from 10am to 12pm.
What makes this group especially meaningful is that it has been shaped by the people we support themselves. It reflects choice, independence, and ownership, showing how small ideas can grow into something that benefits the whole community.
Walking is often seen as one of the simplest ways to stay healthy, but its impact goes far beyond physical fitness.
It helps reduce stress, improves mood, builds confidence, and creates opportunities for social connection. Being in nature can bring calm, routine, and a sense of purpose. Sharing that experience with others helps friendships grow and strengthens community ties.
For many of the people we support, walking groups offer independence, routine, and something to look forward to each week.
That’s why walking matters to us. Because helping people live healthier, more active lives isn’t just about support, it’s about creating opportunities to belong, to grow, and to enjoy the world around us.
This National Walking Month, we’re celebrating every step.
