RESIDENTS across Herefordshire are being encouraged to lace up their walking shoes and take on the ‘Walk This May Challenge’ 2026.

The challenge, led by Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire, Herefordshire Council and Worcestershire County Council, invites people of all ages and abilities to get active, enjoy the outdoors and spark new connections.

Last year, walkers across the two counties covered 4,723.18 miles during the challenge.

Organisers are now calling on communities to come together once again and see if they can go even further this year!

Stephen Brewster, chief executive of Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire, said: “Last year our communities walked over 4,700 miles, an incredible achievement. This year, we’re aiming even higher.

“Walking is one of the simplest ways to boost your health, and when we do it together, it becomes something truly powerful. Let’s see if we can beat last year’s total and make 2026 our most active year yet.”

The challenge runs from Wednesday, May 1 to Thursday, May 14 and features free, friendly and accessible walks ranging from 10 to 90 minutes.

All walks take place on easy ground at a relaxed pace, making them suitable for beginners. Routes are available across both counties and are easily reached on foot or by public transport.

Local walks include Leys Hill, Linton, John Kyrle Ross-on-Wye Walk, the Wye Valley Walk and the 26-mile around Ross-on-Wye walk.

If you want to join the challenge you can find your nearest health walk on the webpage herefordshire.gov.uk/walkthismay, no booking is required. Simply turn up at a walk of your choice and have fun.

Zoe Clifford, director of public health for Herefordshire Council, added: “This challenge is for everyone. It’s about enjoying the outdoors, connecting with others, and discovering how good movement can make you feel. Last year showed us what’s possible when our communities come together.”