Walking for wellbeing in Peterborough

As part of our series speaking with residents across Peterborough about how they get moving and support their wellbeing, we’re sharing personal reflections on the small activities that can make a big difference. Walking is one of the simplest ways to improve both physical and mental health. And for many, it can provide a moment of calm, reflection or connection with others.

Inspired by the words of the internationally renowned poet John Clare, who celebrated the beauty of the natural world in his writing, this piece explores how walking can support wellbeing and highlights some great places locally where you can get out and about.

I love to wander at my idle will
In summer, luscious prime about the fields

John Clare (1793-1864)

David's story

At University you party and feel great! That’s how it is? Right? Early in my first year, many miles from home, my mood was saying otherwise. Back then, student mental health issues were on the radar, but there were scant protections and mitigations.

One afternoon, during a personal all -time low (at that point in my life), my cassette Sony Walkman tempted me out to the streets. I remember finding a rambling cemetery right up on the hillside. Below, enormous power station cooling towers belched out who knows what. But in my compact friend was the second TalkTalk album: It’s My Life. And, despite my grim surroundings, just being outside and the melodies (now recognised by some as timeless) coming through the headphones soothed my tattered spirit. My first recognition of “music and walking therapy” combined.

Five years later, I was working in St Albans. There, the area of the former Roman city is a park where artificial lakes, replete with wildfowl, offer a scenic circuit. Here, my lunchtime walks with colleagues began and continued through most of the six local authorities I’ve worked for. I find that, walking side-by-side, I rarely look at my companion: focusing on the words we exchange and our surroundings. So, communication feels free from body language. Eye contact, which I can sometimes find awkward, is not required.

Best places to walk in Peterborough and groups to go with

Peterborough offers a variety of walking routes, catering to all types of walkers, including scenic trails, organised walks, and dog-friendly paths.

Wellbeing Walks

Wellbeing Walks are free, supported group walks designed to encourage better health, improve fitness, and support overall wellbeing. The walks are suitable for a range of fitness levels, making them accessible for beginners as well as regular walkers. They also provide a friendly and social environment where participants can meet new people while enjoying local green spaces and scenery. 

Peterborough Ramblers

Peterborough Ramblers organise regular group walks that welcome both members and non-members. Routes typically range from 4.5 to 9 miles and focus on exploring local footpaths and countryside byways around the Peterborough area. New walkers are encouraged to join, making it a friendly way to discover local landscapes while becoming part of an active walking community.

River Nene and Thorpe Meadows

Many of these walks are suitable for families and often include scenic routes along the River Nene. A popular area is Thorpe Meadows, which offers riverside paths, open green spaces, and a rowing lake, creating a peaceful and accessible environment for walkers with amenities nearby.

Barnwell Country Park

Just outside of Peterborough, Barnwell Country Park offers a friendly environment for both walkers and dogs, with areas where dogs can roam off-lead. A picturesque location for a relaxing walk.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out some of our favourite Peterborough walks below (opens on Google Maps), where you’ll find a selection of scenic routes to explore around the area.