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Health Walks

Regular exercise is good for us but sometimes it can be hard to get started. An activity as simple as walking improves circulation, lowers blood pressure, and reduces our risk of heart disease and stroke. It's also beneficial for people experiencing depression, low mood and anxiety; it can improve self-esteem and of course help with weight management. And walking in a group is very sociable!

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We run regular Health Walks for all abilities, from the complete beginner to the more experienced walker, led by trained walk leaders. They’re a great way to meet new people, enjoy local natural spaces and improve your health and wellbeing. Everyone is welcome.

Two men walking on a tarmac path in a park

The 'Amble'

A weekly 30-minute stroll in Wincanton, ideal if you haven't done much walking before or perhaps don't get out of the house that often.

Short Walks

Our weekly one-hour Short Walks start and end at The Balsam Centre. They’re reasonably brisk and may include some hills and rough ground - we are in Wincanton after all! We finish with a cuppa in the Balsam Centre Café.

Walking across a field on a sunny day
A group of walkers head down a path with trees all around

Long Walks

Our longer walks are suitable for people who are reasonably fit, enjoy walking in the countryside and want to find a group to walk with. They’re about 3.5 to 5 miles, or two hours, in length.

Buggy Walks

We also run Buggy Walks in the gardens of the beautiful Stourhead Estate, on level paths suitable for buggies. You can also bring babies in slings!

Mums and babies walking amid autumn colour at Stourhead

What does it cost?

There is no charge for joining one of our Health Walks but you can make a donation if you like, which contributes towards the insurance, training and walk leaders’ kit.

A group of walkers following a path with cows in the background

Want to become a walk leader?

If you are interested in becoming a walk leader, we can offer you full training. All walks have two walk leaders and operate on a rota basis. The leaders for the long walks generally take responsibility for one walk every couple of months, which also involves walking and checking the route in advance to check for any problems - overgrown rights of way, fallen trees, overflowing rivers, or stroppy cattle! Call us on 01963 31842 or email info@balsamcentre.org.uk if you'd like to find out more.

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