National Walking Month

David Evennett MP, Minsiter for Tourism

I am a passionate advocate of walking – it is free, keeps you fit and is good for the environment.

For years, my wife and I have enjoyed exploring the UK’s breathtaking scenery on foot and now as Minister responsible for sport and tourism it seems my hobby could not be more apt.

May is National Walking Month, which is a fantastic reminder to us all about the benefits of walking.

We, in government, have committed to creating a more active nation, and recreational walking is a simple way to lose weight and can be done by most people of any age or fitness level.

The UK’s stunning landscape – from coastal walks to country trails  – also attracts millions of tourists to these shores who come to explore on foot contributing to local economies across the country too.

In 2015, more than 12 million domestic trips in England alone involved a long walk, hike or ramble.

Our country is blessed by beautiful National Parks too. Recently I travelled to Northumberland National Park and visited Hadrian’s Wall. There you will see thousands of hikers travelling miles along the ancient wall in all weathers.

Then there are other striking well-worn, well-loved walking routes such as the South West Coast Path and the beautiful Lake District. But you do not have to plan such an adventurous trip to enjoy walking – that is the joy of it. I regularly take my grandchildren to our local parks where they can enjoy the fresh air and exercise for free. A firm family favourite is Sheringham Park in Norfolk with its wonderful parkland, woods and views of the North Sea, and we are regular visitors.

I encourage everyone to get out there and put their best foot forward this month.