Recreation and Sport

Perhaps because of the unrivaled network of public rights of way in England, walking is officially our national most popular outdoor recreation activity. Unlike most sports, casual recreation walking requires little special equipment and can be informally incorporated into many other hobbies in a variety of locations on a regular basis.

Power walking has increased in popularity in the UK in recent years and Nordic Walking (using walking poles) has been taken up by people who want a more intense activity than regular recreational walking but a low risk sport to keep them fit and healthy.

As a nation of animal lovers taking a dog out on a walk is a popular activity for many people.  So much so that in some parts of the country it is possible to hire a dog to walk with! Research suggests that people who own a dog (which presumably is a cheaper way than renting) also benefit from having better health and living longer – in part due to the exercise that a dog demands.

Countryside Recreation Network

The Countryside Recreation Network provides updates about research and policy development in outdoor recreation and countryside access across the UK and the Republic of Ireland. Please see the latest e-newsletter (click here) that is produced quarterly.