Enjoy the beauty of Peterborough’s surrounding villages and countryside: The Ramblers are back

The largest group meets on Thursday afternoons at 1.30pm for a five-mile walk and there are longer walks of around 7 or 8 miles on Sundays once a month.

There is also a bus walk on Sundays once a month .

So if you’ve found renewed pleasure in walking during the restrictions of the pandemic why not keep it up and join the group for one of the walks?

When you get away from the road, you’ll be surprised at the beauty of Peterborough’s surrounding villages and countryside.

“The walks usually take place within 20 miles of Peterborough and the views vary from the big skies and riverside walks of the fens to the rolling hills and woodlands of Rutland, not to mention Rutland Water and walks in the vicinity of local market towns such as Stamford, Oundle and St Ives,” says committee member Anne Osborne.

“Occasionally we have a daytrip further afield. Walking has many health benefits, both physical and mental. No special equipment required other than a stout pair of boots and outdoor clothing. There’s no better way to unwind and forget your problems for a while than getting out into the open air.”

Anne added: “Joining a walking group is a great way to meet new people, so if you’ve just moved to the area or if you’ve had major upheavals in your life such as a bereavement or illness why not join us. Even if you feel a bit shy, it’s very easy to walk and talk with other ramblers. The Peterborough group is very friendly and welcoming.

“You can come along to one of our walks without becoming a member of the Ramblers for free. Once you’ve experienced how enjoyable it is and decided to join the Ramblers Association, you’ll be able to join walks anywhere in the country.”

The Ramblers Association has worked hard to set up new protocols to keep walkers safe with regard to the pandemic, and so if you want to join a walk you’ll need to book a place.

The first bus walk takes place this Sunday (August 16). Meet bay 9 for bus X4 at 11.59. Ticket to Upper Benefield for a 5.5 mile walk to Oundle and bus back at 17.15. To book on bus

walks ring Christine on 01780 721409

On Thursday *August 20) Maria is leading the five-mile walk around Greatford. Telephone 01733 267492 to book a place.

Walks will be limited to 30 participants. Just go to www.Ramblers.org.uk and use the walk finder for future walks and ring the walk leader to book a place. The leaders telephone number will be available on the walk list , just give them a call.