Walking isn’t only good for our physical, social and mental health. It’s also good for our communities, the environment and the economy.
We support and inspire people in Scotland to walk and wheel more.
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The findings show that more people than ever are walking and wheeling in their daily lives. 57% of adults now walk or wheel every day (up from 52% in 2023) and 86% walk several times a week.
But the survey also finds a gap, 1 in 20 (5%) say they never walk, despite over half saying they would like to walk more for leisure (68%) and routine reasons (63%). Across Scotland, people report poor pavement quality, safety concerns, and poor access to local amenities as the top barriers preventing them from walking more.
“Scots want to walk more, and many are. But these figures show too many people still face barriers that stop them. It’s time to make walking the easy choice for everyone. This is a moment to listen to what communities are telling us. We know that almost 6 in 10 would walk more if path infrastructure was better,[i] so the ambition is there. People want to walk.” Kevin Lafferty, our Chief Executive
Kevin Lafferty, our Chief Executive
Scotland has led the way in promoting walking and wheeling up to now, but its only remaining path fund for communities, supported by the Scottish Government, comes to an end in early 2026. That’s why Walking Scotland is calling for a National Path Fund, so everyone has access to safe, well-maintained local paths.
“Demand for our support and advice is higher than ever. This research gives a clear direction of travel. A National Path Fund would ensure everyone in Scotland has access to safe, well-maintained routes.”
Everyday walking and wheeling are simple actions with long term benefits for Scotland, improving health, connecting communities, and supporting climate and nature ambitions. Evidence shows that for every £1 spent on walking infrastructure, the return is up to £6 in health, economic and environmental benefits.
The results of this survey will shape our upcoming work with Scottish Government, local authorities, Regional Transport Partnerships and communities, identifying areas most in need of investment and support.
The data clearly shows that where paths and local environments are safe, accessible, and well-maintained, people will choose to walk and wheel more often.
Walking Scotland wants to make this an option for everyone.
Additional information:
[i] 55% of respondents stated that they would be encouraged to walk or wheel more often if they felt safer walking after dark and/or during the day, if there were more safe places to cross roads in their local area and/or if better lighting was provided along pavements and paths in their local area.
Published: 13 November 2025
