27/04/2026
The GM Walking Festival is back for 2026 and there are so many walking and wheeling activities to choose from.
Coordinated by Greater Manchester Moving, the month-long celebration invites people across the region to experience the joy of walking and wheeling throughout May, in alignment with National Walking Month.
The festival brings together over 350 free, organised group walks hosted by local organisations and community groups in every borough of Greater Manchester. This year, the festival theme is ‘Celebrating Connected Communities’, bringing people together through movement and being outside.
Whether you’re walking with a pram, wheeling with a mobility aid, exploring with friends, or simply taking time to move mindfully, there is something for everyone. This festival offers an opportunity to move, connect and feel good.
“I’m delighted to see so many local groups from all parts of Greater Manchester coming together to make this year’s GM Walking Festival. With hundreds of walks happening in May, there are countless opportunities to get moving in a way that works for you. Walking and wheeling are the most accessible ways to build activity into our daily lives and this festival celebrates exactly that. We hope it helps people build healthy, joyful habits that last well beyond May.”
Louise Robbins, GM Moving’s Strategic Lead for Walking and Active Environments
Festival walk highlights from across Greater Manchester include:
BOLTON – Spring Time Guided Walk | Thursday 28 May – 10am | Hosted by TfGM
Guided tours of Queen’s Park suitable for all ages and abilities. Perfect for families or people wanting to discover this beautiful park.
BURY – Mummy Buddies Club | Tuesday 5 May – 1pm | Hosted by Empathy Holistic Buddies CIC
Gentle walk and talk around Clarence Park for familiar with children 0-5. Come along to enjoy getting outdoors and make new friends.
MANCHESTER – Stay Active and Connected | Saturday 16 May – 3pm | Hosted by Community Thriving Together CIC
Walk for women experiencing social isolation or lack of confidence to come together and experience the joys of movement.
OLDHAM – Hollinwood Walkers | Thursday 14 May – 12pm | Hosted by Oldham South PCN
Weekly walk around the local area for people of all abilities. Perfect for those who are wanting to move more regularly and meet new people in your area.
ROCHDALE – Hollingworth Lake Walk | Wednesday 13 May – 10:30am | Hosted by Creative Living Centre
Guided walk to Hollingworth Lake, particularly for people experiencing loneliness, anxiety or other mental health challenges.
SALFORD – Walk and Talk Media City | Wednesday 20 May – 11am | Hosted by Inspiring Communities Together
Gentle, flat walk for people over the age of 50. Explore Salford Quays and Media City and discover the history of Salford Docks.
STOCKPORT – Weekend Wellness Walk | Saturday 9 May – 9:45am | Hosted by Life Leisure and Age UK Stockport
Circular walk along the canal and into Haughtondale, for anyone wanting to connect with other locals and explore more of Stockport
TAMESIDE – Stamford Park Walk | Saturday 16 May – 10am | Hosted by Active Tameside
A short walk around Stamford Park for anyone wanting to explore their local area, suitable for people with various medical conditions.
TRAFFORD – Old Trafford Green Trail | Saturday 23 May – 1:30pm | Hosted by Love Old Trafford
A leisurely stroll around the Green Trail open to everyone. Showcasing the nature in our local green spaces.
WIGAN – Walk and Talk Three Sisters | Be Well Wigan – 10:30am | Hosted by Be Well Wigan
A relaxed and sociable stroll exploring the outdoors. A great chance to meet new people and get your steps in.
Find your local walk and get involved at gmwalking.co.uk/festival
For further information, images, and comment contact Niamh Moore: niamh@gmmoving.co.uk