LEICESTER’S medieval roots, rich heritage and urban green spaces will all be celebrated as a popular walking festival returns to the city.
Walk Leicester runs from 1-31 May, offering lots of free, themed group walks that help people to explore the city on foot.
Among the walks on offer are a Green Walk, finishing at Gorse Hill City Farm, on Saturday 2 May, and a Mindful Nature Walk with the Canal & River Trust on Friday 15 May, taking in the sights and sounds of the river.
Several walks will explore the medieval history around De Montfort University’s campus, while other walks will celebrate the city’s libraries and literary figures, highlight history and nature, or provide craft activities for children.
And on Wednesday 27 May, during half-term, there’s the return of Funky Feet and Wacky Wheels – a free, family-friendly event in Abbey Park. Running from 11am-2pm, Funky Feet and Wacky Wheels will include a ‘bling station’ where children can decorate their shoes, scooters or bikes to join a ‘grand parade’ around the Oval.
May is also National Walking Month, aimed at helping people to discover how walking can improve your physical fitness and mental wellbeing.
Cllr Vi Dempster, assistant city mayor responsible for public health and parks, said: “The Walk Leicester festival offers people the chance to socialise, discover new routes and learn more about the fascinating history of our city. It’s also a great chance to explore some of our beautiful parks and green spaces.
“We know that walking boosts your mood and helps with mental wellbeing, and it’s really good exercise, so I hope that lots of people will join us to enjoy the Walk Leicester festival.”
Cllr Geoff Whittle, assistant city mayor for environment and transport, said: “The recently published Walking and Cycling Index for Leicester shows that 50% of residents walk or wheel at least five days a week, so we know that walking is already a big part of life for a lot of people in Leicester. The Walk Leicester festival allows even more people to discover just how easy and enjoyable it can be to get around the city on foot.”
Anyone who takes part in the Walk Leicester Festival can also earn BetterPoints to spend on high street vouchers, or donate them to your favourite charities. Download the free BetterPoints app at https://qrco.de/chymr with referral code walkleics.
Find out more about the Walk Leicester festival at https://www.choosehowyoumove.co.uk/walkleicester/
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