Mid and East Antrim steps out for National Walking Month with free community walks across the borough

A major cross-border initiative is encouraging people across Mid and East Antrim to get moving this May, with a growing programme of free, weekly community walks designed to boost physical health, mental wellbeing and social connection.

The Walking for All programme, led by Outscape and supported by PEACEPLUS, is inviting residents to mark National Walking Month by joining organised walks taking place across the borough, with no cost, no equipment required, and routes tailored to suit all abilities.

Free walks expanding across local communities

Already active in Mid and East Antrim, the initiative is delivering regular, locally led walking groups established within communities and guided by trained Walk Leaders. Walks range from short 10-minute outings to longer one-hour routes, ensuring accessibility for adults of all ages and fitness levels.

The programme is part of a wider effort operating across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland, delivered in partnership with eight local councils in Northern Ireland and six Local Sports Partnerships across the border region.

Over the next three years, Walking for All aims to engage more than 14,000 people in structured walking activities, with a focus on tackling social isolation, increasing physical activity levels and supporting mental health in rural communities.

National Walking Month brings focus to health and connection

National Walking Month runs throughout May each year, promoting walking as a simple but powerful way to improve overall wellbeing. The campaign highlights that people who walk regularly report feeling happier, less anxious and more connected to their communities.

In Mid and East Antrim, local Walking for All Officer Caitriona Murray Tait has been working directly with communities to build participation and establish welcoming groups close to where people live.

Commenting ahead of the month-long campaign, Caitriona said;

“National Walking Month is the perfect moment for anyone in Mid & East Antrim to take that first step with us. Our walks are completely free, they happen every week, right in your own community and they’re open to everyone, whatever your age or ability.”

“What I love most about our walks is seeing people grow in confidence week by week – whether it’s getting out for some fresh air, improving their fitness, or simply enjoying the connection with others. It’s such a simple mix of movement, fresh air and community but it really makes a difference. I’d love to see more people join us this May.”

Inclusive approach aims to reach all abilities

The programme places a strong emphasis on inclusivity, with walks open to people of all backgrounds and abilities, including those walking and wheeling. Organisers say the goal is to remove barriers and make participation as easy as possible.

Gareth Moore, Head of Participation for Outscape and Walking for All, added;

“We hope National Walking Month inspires people right across Mid & East Antrim to step out and discover what Walking for All is all about. Walking for All walks are completely free, they happen every week in the heart of your community, and they are genuinely open to everyone, whatever your background or ability – including those walking and wheeling. We’d love to see more people join us this May.”

Weekly walk schedule across the borough

Residents can already take part in several organised walks taking place each week across Mid and East Antrim:

Glenarm Marina Walk

Wednesdays, 10.30am at Cloney Car Park

Carnlough Harbour Walk

Wednesdays, 6pm at Spar Car Park, Carnlough Harbour

Martinstown Walking Group

Fridays, 1pm at Community Hub, Martinstown

All walks are free to attend, and no special equipment is required.

Opportunities to get involved as a Walk Leader

Alongside encouraging participation, the programme is also offering free Walk Leader training for those interested in supporting others to get active in their community. No previous experience is needed, with full training and ongoing support provided.

People can search for local walks, register for the programme or find out how to become a Walk Leader by visiting www.walkingforall.com.

Backed by major cross-border investment

Walking for All is supported through PEACEPLUS, a €1.14 billion cross-border funding programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body. The initiative is co-funded by the European Union, the Government of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, the Government of Ireland and the Northern Ireland Executive.

The programme aligns with wider government priorities on public health and wellbeing, including Northern Ireland’s Programme for Government objectives and the Healthy Futures Obesity Strategic Framework (2025), where it is recognised as a scalable, population-level intervention.

Organisers say structured walking is one of the most cost-effective and inclusive ways to increase physical activity, improve mental wellbeing, reduce isolation and strengthen community ties, while also encouraging people to engage more with their local natural environment.

Building healthier, more connected communities

Outscape, the not-for-profit organisation behind the programme, has been working across the island of Ireland since 1999 to promote outdoor activity as a way to improve health, connect communities and support economic development.

With National Walking Month now under way, organisers are urging more people across Mid and East Antrim to take advantage of the free walks on offer and experience the benefits of getting outdoors with others, as the programme continues to expand its reach across the borough.

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At a glance

• Free Walking for All programme active across Mid and East Antrim

• Weekly organised walks available for all ages and abilities

• National Walking Month runs throughout May

• Walks range from 10 minutes to one hour

• No cost and no equipment required

• Programme aims to engage over 14,000 people in three years

• Focus on improving health, wellbeing and reducing isolation

• Free Walk Leader training available for volunteers

• Local walks in Glenarm, Carnlough and Martinstown already running

• Registration and details at www.walkingforall.com