Make walking fun for children Print E-mail

Remember, though, that clothing and footwear need to be robust and practical. Wellies are fine for splashing through streams, but well-fitting trainers will be more comfortable for a longer walk. If they get the walking bug then by all means buy them junior walking boots, but don’t forget how quickly little feet grow! As with adult walkers, a spare jumper and waterproofs, sun hat and refreshments, should be staple rucksack items throughout most of the walking year in Britain; but it may be a good idea to pack a complete change of clothes for younger hikers. A walk in the countryside with children is, rather inevitably, a sure way to fill up the dirty laundry basket, so accept the fact that your pristine little charge will not come back in the same state that he or she set off in and let them have fun.

It will be a small price to pay for a healthy dose of fresh air and exercise.

10 great places to walk with children... 

  1. Cannock Chase, Staffordshire
  2. Grizedale Forest Sculpture Trails, Lake District
  3. Hadrian’s Wall National Trail
  4. Hampstead Heath, London
  5. New Forest National Park
  6. Peak District National Park
  7. Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire
  8. South Downs
  9. South West Coast Path National Trail
  10. The Gower Coast, South Wales

 

... and 10 ways to keep their interest

  • Identify a theme and make it fun
  • Take their friends or siblings
  • Don’t rush
  • Consider shortcuts
  • Discover things along the way
  • Have a picnic
  • Turn a blind eye to mud
  • Let them take their own photos
  • Share your achievements
  • Finish with a treat


Andrew McCloy was previously information officer with the Ramblers’ Association and is now a freelance author and access consultant based in the Peak District. His latest book is Exploring Roman Britain, published by New Holland at £19.99.