A MONTH-long programme of free walks exploring Leicester’s environment, heritage and hidden history gets underway next week.
The Walk Leicester Festival runs from May 1 to 31 and includes a series of guided walks taking in both some of the city’s historic sites and its lesser-known environmental and architectural gems.
It is taking place as part of National Walking Month – a campaign to encourage more people to get outdoors and take some gentle exercise.
Walks in Leicester range from exploring the trail of King Richard III to discovering the city’s waterside habitats. People can learn more about the city’s medieval history, its Victorian architectural or the railways from its industrial past. The walks are free to take part in.
A range of walking sports are also available to try out throughout May as part of the Walking Sports Festival. Leicester’s sporting clubs have come together to bring you a free programme of walking sports at Spinney Hill Park. The sessions are open to everyone and are a great way to meet new people and introduce more regular activity into everyday life. Walking sports sessions will take place every Tuesday until 23 May from 10am in Spinney Hill Park.
For details of all the events, and to sign up for the walks, visit the Choose How You Move website here.
This year's Walk Leicester Festival will see the return of extra points and prizes up for grabs on the free Betterpoints app, which helps people earn rewards for active travel in Leicester and Leicestershire. Users can track journeys using the free app, earn points and redeem them for high street vouchers or donate them to a favourite charity.
During May, Betterpoints are offering the chance to win a £50 shopping voucher and more. To take part, download the Betterpoints app, register and join the Choose How You Move challenge.