Stockport celebrates 30 years of Walkaday walking programme

A Stockport walking programme is celebrating 30 years of helping residents get active, connect with others and explore the outdoors.

Walkaday, which began in 1996, marked its 30th anniversary this summer with a special event bringing together generations of walkers from across the borough. Originally established by Stockport Council’s Public Rights of Way team, the programme has grown into a well-loved, volunteer-led initiative offering free, guided walks for people of all abilities.

To mark the milestone, a special anniversary walk took place on Wednesday 8 July, bringing together past and present walkers. The walk began at Marple Rail Station, with a series of shorter joining points along the route, before finishing in Stockport town centre with a celebration event at Stockroom later that afternoon.

Walkaday has built a strong community of walkers, supporting people to improve their health, confidence and wellbeing, while enjoying the borough’s green spaces. Over the last three decades, it has supported healthy lifestyles while promoting sustainable travel, with walks designed to be accessible by public transport.

Cllr Grace Baynham, Cabinet Member for Parks, Highways and Transport Services, said:

“Walkaday is a fantastic example of how a simple idea can make a lasting difference. For 30 years it has helped people across Stockport stay active, make connections and enjoy our brilliant local environment.

“We’re proud to celebrate this milestone and to support opportunities that help residents lead healthier, more active lives.”

Walkaday leader Kath Edwards said:

“Walkaday has always been about bringing people together through walking, whether you’re joining for the first time or have been coming for years. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how much it means to people, and we’re excited to celebrate 30 years with our walkers and welcome new faces to join us.”

Walkaday is open to all, including new participants, with a range of route options available to suit different abilities, with information about upcoming walks available from the Stockport Council website.