Step into Spring: GM Walking Festival Returns with 300 free walks

Helen Clarke

Greater Manchester is on the move this May as the GM Walking Festival returns offering over 300 free guided walks to inspire residents to step outside, explore local areas, and connect with others.

Running in celebration of National Walking Month the festival is coordinated by Greater Manchester Moving and supported by dozens of passionate community groups, charities and volunteers across all ten boroughs.

Whether you’re walking for wellbeing, with a mobility aid, or simply enjoying time with friends, there’s something for everyone.

From mindful nature trails and social strolls to themed rambles and heritage routes, every walk is free, inclusive, and welcoming.

Highlights from this year’s festival include:

• Fit After 40 - Sat 10th May, 10am (Tameside)

  A supportive, menopause-friendly walk run by MenopauseYourWay—empowering, encouraging, and energising.

• Exploring Low Hall - Sun 11th May, 10am (Wigan)

  Discover Wigan’s hidden nature reserve with local wildlife enthusiasts from Friends of Low Hall.

• Steps Against Stigma - Weds 14th May, 6pm (Salford)

  Join Jaksworld Charity on a powerful walk through Salford Quays raising awareness for mental health.

• Sale Moor Wellbeing Walk - Thurs 15th May, 12:30pm (Trafford)

  Hosted by the Sale Sharks Foundation, this relaxed walk finishes with a cuppa and community chat.

• Mindfulness Walk - Mon 19th May, 10:30am (Oldham)

  A calming nature-led walk hosted by Oldham Libraries, focused on slowing down and reconnecting outdoors.

• Be Active, Be Vibrant or Just Be - Weds 21st May, 11am (Manchester)

  A warm, over-50s walking group led by Abbey Hey Walkers—perfect for fresh air and good company.

"This festival is about joy, community and connection through walking," said Louise Robbins, Strategic Lead at GM Moving. "With hundreds of walks happening, there’s something for every ability and every interest."

Find a walk near you and get involved: gmwalking.co.uk/festival