Do you know that May is National Walking Month? Maybe, like me, you try to fit a few miles of walking into your busy weekly schedule. Whether you’re a regular walker or it’s been a while since you walked any further than from the house to the car, why not take advantage of some of the many organised walks which will take place around the Ballymena area this May.
Mid and East Antrim Borough Council have recently published a very helpful list of walking events being organised by local walking clubs. Very close to Ballymena are walks in Portglenone on 2nd May and Cargan/Dongonnel Dam on 9th May. Another one in Portglenone Forest on 23rd May which should be a good time to see the fantastic display of bluebells there. Click here to see the full list and more details.
The MEA website says, “Walking is one of the easiest ways to get active, lose weight and become both physically and mentally healthier. Our May Walks will give you the opportunity to feel all these benefits for yourself, while meeting and interacting with people in the process. Some people enjoy walking on their own, but many enjoy the company while walking. May Walks aims to signpost local people to existing walking groups and providers in our area.” Source – Mid and East Antrim Borough Council website.
Lots of organised walks will take place throughout May to mark National Walking Month.
If you prefer to walk close to the sea or in the Glens you could take a look at what Nine Glens Walking Tours have to offer on their website here. These are fully guided walking tours led by experienced guides. Their walks include a ‘Ramble on Rathlin’, Murlough, Fairhead, Glenariffe and Cushendun.
Also, and these are especially for ladies, some of the local churches have organised walking events throughout May. For example, a ‘Fit for me, Fit for life’ programme will take place at the Parish churches of Ahoghill and Randalstown. More details here.
We hope we’ve whetted your appetite to get out and about more and enjoy some of the countryside around the Ballymena area and beyond. These are just a few of what is likely to be many organised walks taking place throughout National Walking Month in May.