Why walking is the best-ever family time

We all lead such busy lives these days, it can be very hard to carve out what is probably the most important time of all; quality and unrushed time spent with the people we love.

For big or small groups, family walking is a great way to reconnect, have fun and make memories.

So why is family walking the best-ever family time?

Because it can be simple and local

A family walk doesn’t have to be a huge venture; just keeping it easy and local can be fine. 

Where and how far you go will depend on the ages of those involved (and also if you need something that’s pushchair friendly). 

Also, you don’t really want to spend a lot of time driving in the car, so go for something simple, such as exploring a local park or perhaps choosing a local hill to get to the top of. It’s all about making it easy and fun.

Here at Peakeze HQ, we’re a small family. It’s me (I’m Rob), my wife Liz, and our two children aged six and eight. We’ve found that National Trust properties work very well. We’re National Trust members and although their main visitor attractions are usually based around houses or gardens, these often have easy walks built-in (perhaps around the gardens or within the grounds of the house). Even better, there’s usually a coffee-shop at the end!

Because it gives you a reason to turn off the tech

Consider turning your mobile phone off and leaving other tech behind.

You’ll then be ‘switching off’ in a variety of ways.

Of course, you may want to take your phone or digital camera along for pictures or for safety reasons, but the walk and the experience is the main thing.

Because it can be educational too 

How about making it a little interactive?

Perhaps take along a guide book on birds and insects, or flora and fauna. You could even build in a little quiz or competition to see who can spot and record the most items of interest.

Because a picnic can be included

A picnic does not have to be a big thing and can be something as simple as a flask of hot brown, juice for the little ones and biscuits or cake.

If you fancy something more substantial (but you still want to keep it simple) go for some really nice cheese and good bread, with something to drink.

With ruck-sacs, everyone can carry their own.

Because it does not need a lot of pricey kit

Don’t worry too much about walking equipment. 

For local and easy family walking, everyone’s ‘kit’ can simply be a pair of good-fit trainers and a light waterproof jacket. 

Family walks are fab

I hope that you enjoy your family walking and the many benefits of this quality time.

If you’d like any tips or advice about walking or walking kit, then I’m here to help. I’m Rob Saunders and my phone number is on the website. You can also email me at rob@peakeze.com