Walking
Walking is one of the easiest ways to get active. There are so many ways that you can use walking in your everyday life. Whether you’re walking to pick the kids up, or off for your daily exercise, a good brisk walk has lots of health benefits.
Walking is great if you're new to being active. It’s free! You don’t need fancy equipment or a membership to take part. You can do it on your own, with a friend or one of the many friendly groups out there. Just make sure you’ve got a pair of comfy trainers or shoes and off you go.
Find more information on walking for health on the NHS website.
In Barnsley we have a range of fantastic places to walk, from countryside footpaths bordering the Peak District, to multi-user trails like the Trans Pennine Trail. There are paths through woodlands, parkland, reservoir trails and nature reserves. There's something to suit everyone so just pick a route or find a group.
Where to walk
Walking routes
If you're thinking about getting your walking boots on you can find some local walks on the following websites:
You can also look for local public rights of way and map your own walking route.
Places to walk
Parks in Barnsley
Parks in Barnsley are great spaces to start your walking journey. Find out where your nearest park or play area is.
Trans Pennine Trail
The Trans Pennine Trail offers a coast to coast route for recreation and transport for walkers, cyclists and in some parts horse riders.
Elsecar Heritage Centre
With a nearby park, canal-side walks and access to the Trans Pennine Trail, Elsecar Heritage Centre is a fascinating day out for all the family.
Wentworth Castle Gardens
Wentworth Castle Gardens offer beautiful gardens, woodlands and parkland.
Worsbrough Mill
Worsbrough Mill is a 17th-century working watermill set in 240 acres of tranquil Country Park, a great place to visit with your family.
Cannon Hall
Visit the parkland at Cannon Hall on any day and you'll see walkers soaking up the atmosphere, dogs exploring and families and friends spending time together.
Walking groups
There are groups across the borough running regular walks for fun and fitness. These are often organised by community groups or charities.
Barnsley Wellbeing Walks
Barnsley Wellbeing Walks offer a programme of led walks to suit all ages and abilities. All walks are free and people with long-term health conditions are particularly encouraged to join at their own pace.
Barnsley U3A
Barnsley U3A provides activities and opportunities for retired and semi-retired people to come together. Part of the national movement Barnsley U3A currently has over 130 groups including a wide range of walking groups.
The Ramblers
The Rambles walking groups help local people enjoy walking and protect the places we all love to walk. Most groups organise regular walks led by local experts – a great way to get outside, make new friends and discover how walking boosts your health and happiness.
Live Well Barnsley
Live Well can be used to find more local walking groups. Search for 'walking' on the Live Well Barnsley website.
