Walking isn’t only good for our physical, social and mental health. It’s also good for our communities, the environment and the economy.
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We asked our Walking Scotland colleagues to share some of their favourite everyday walking routes, and why they choose them. We would love for you to share your walking stories, too.
Kathryn, our Stories and Media Officer, shares how she fits walking into her everyday routine.
“I try to walk whenever I can and find that there’s always a reason to step outside. One of the simplest ways I boost my daily steps is by walking to the gym at lunchtime instead of driving. Even on rainy days, when the car feels tempting, I never regret choosing fresh air as my midday reset. And the best part is I can count the walk as my warm‑up.
I also love getting out for a walk after work, especially on days when I’ve been working from home. When I’m in the office, I park further away to get a short walk in before and after the workday. Stepping outside once I’ve shut my laptop creates a clear boundary between work and the evening ahead. It gives me space to unwind, reflect on the day, and notice the small seasonal changes in my local area. It’s a gentle ritual that helps me move into the evening with a clearer mind and a lighter mood.”
Steven, our Digital Engagement Officer, shares the impact everyday walking has for him.
“Walking is my primary form of exercise and transport, so I make as many of my journeys on foot as I can. It’s so important for my physical health, my mental wellbeing and maintaining an active lifestyle.
I enjoy a walk in the morning before work, at lunchtime and at least once in the evening. I use that time to create space between work and personal life, to catch up with the latest podcast episode or simply to reflect and decompress. I live in a town which is compact, very walkable, and everything is within a 10-minute walking radius. The nearby active travel route underwent an extensive upgrade. It’s perfect for locals and visitors to walk, wheel and cycle along the esplanade, to the beach or even into the city.
When I can, I enjoy meeting family or friends for a walk to catch-up. You really can’t beat a blether on the move, especially when there’s great weather. The local path networks link several great greenspaces and woodland parks too. Walking to and around these spaces is where I find a connection to nature and draw my creative inspiration from.”
Rachael, our Corporate and Community Fundraiser, shares her local loop.
“Most workdays, I do a loop around my neighbourhood on my lunch break and again straight after work. It lets me stretch my legs and, because it’s so familiar to me, I can do it without thinking and really switch off. The route starts off pretty flat and passes by a couple of churches and some big old houses with lovely gardens full of spring flowers.
Just before the half-way point comes the best bit. I stop at the gate of one house where there’s always a dog sitting, waiting patiently for passersby. She’s incredibly friendly and her owners leave tennis balls in the gate for people to throw for her. A quick pet and play and I’m on my way again, turning up a hill past a house with an honesty box for homemade honey. The hill is very steep and sometimes I have to stop before the top to catch my breath. I walk along a few more streets, one lined with big trees where there’s often a tawny owl hooting in the evenings. And before I know it, I’m back home, feeling calm and energised! It’s the perfect pick-me-up walk.”
Now you know our favourite everyday walking routes, we want to hear yours!
Published: 27 April 2026
