The Active Way: Walking & Social Prescribing
In a world where hustle and bustle often dominate our lives, finding moments of movement, tranquility and connection with nature become increasingly vital.
Enter The Active Way, a visionary Active Travel Social Prescribing project spearheaded by Bath and North East Somerset Council in collaboration with Go Jauntly.
What is The Active Way?
At the heart of The Active Way lies a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. By creating 26 hyper-local walking routes across communities like Midsomer Norton, Paulton, Radstock and more, we're ensuring that everyone can participate in the joy of walking, regardless of ability or background. Almost half of our trails have been designed to be flat without steps or stiles, inviting individuals of all ages and fitness levels to put on their shoes and join us on a new journey of exploration. Many of the routes start and end at community GP surgeries and healthcare facilities.
Why is walking and social prescribing important?
One of the most exciting aspects of The Active Way is its integration with social prescribing, a practice that connects individuals with non-medical sources of support in the community. By partnering with social prescribers located in local GP surgeries, we're bridging the gap between physical activity and holistic wellbeing as an ‘on demand’ service for local people.
The importance of Nature Connectedness as a tool for wellbeing.
Nature access, as a tool for managing mental wellbeing, has never been more needed. A recent study shows that mental illness costs England £300bn a year. Obesity rates in adults have more than doubled in the last 30 years - for children, obesity rates increased almost twice as fast. And 80% of car journeys are less than 2km which could be walked in 25 minutes or less. On top of this, access to green space is not equitable. People from low socio-economic backgrounds, those with health conditions, women and people of colour are the least likely to benefit from access to nature but the most in-need.
The Active Way is more than just a collection of walking routes. It's a celebration of local heritage, natural landscapes, and community spirit. Each walk is meticulously curated to showcase the beauty and diversity of our surroundings, from scenic countryside views to tranquil riverside valleys. All of which can be started at public transport stops or hubs.
Top 10 Best Easy Walks in Bath & North East Somerset
Here are our favourtes Bath and North East Somerset walks curated just for you, offering a perfect blend of scenic beauty, historical charm, and outdoor adventure. Lace up your shoes, grab your water bottle, and let The Active Way guide you towards a healthier, happier lifestyle. Explore the full collection here. Happy walking and see our highlights below:
Paulton Nature Connection Loop Views aplenty on this walk through arable and pastoral fields from Elm Hayes Surgery.
Silver Street Nature Reserve Enjoy nature connection aplenty on this walk to a lovely nature reserve with great views.
St Mary's and Timsbury Loop A step-free circular on hard surfaces from St Mary's Surgery. Enjoy the peaceful church grounds and a small tour through the village.
Cameley Surgery to Temple Cloud A nature filled jaunt linking up Cameley and Temple Cloud through fields, woods and along pavements.
Staddlestones Bridleway Circular Head along the River Somer and a bridleway for a stroll with urban and rural elements.
Writhlington Woodland Wander A scenic countryside walk through arable land and woodland with fantastic views.
Greenway and River Somer Stretcher A long circular along the greenway and the River Somer with plenty of nature.
Waterside Valley Recharge A riverside valley circular walk filled with nature connection. There are steep slopes, river crossings, and a church and cemetery en route.
Wellow Brook Greenway Stretcher A nature connection walk to the river and greenway. The route is step-free
Midsomer Town Park Step-Free A step-free stroll on hard surfaces from St Chad's surgery. Walk along the River Somer and enjoy nature connection opportunities.
Don’t forget you can explore all of our Bath and North East Somerset walks here. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply seeking small moments of peace and rejuvenation, there's something for everyone to discover. Download the app now and explore the free walking routes at your leisure!
