If you’re contemplating fresh starts and better habits in 2026, there’s no simpler, more uplifting resolution than pulling on your walking boots and joining your local Ramblers group.

Here in our part of South Yorkshire, we have some fantastic volunteer-run groups where people of all ages and fitness levels meet regularly to explore the great outdoors in a friendly and supportive environment.

As the years tick by, many of us feel the pull to move more but without the pressure of high-intensity workouts or gym memberships that gather dust. Rambling is kind on joints, strengthens the heart, supports mobility and is proven to boost mental wellbeing.

It also requires no special equipment beyond a decent pair of boots and a willingness to step outside.

One of the unexpected joys of joining a Ramblers group is realising how many beautiful places exist within a few miles of home. Walk leaders know the best footpaths, viewpoints, and hidden gems, from forgotten bridleways and ancient lanes to rural churches and village greens you never knew existed.

Making new friends in midlife can be tricky, but something magical happens on a walk. Conversations flow naturally without the awkwardness of forced social settings.

Ramblers groups attract friendly, down-to-earth people who appreciate fresh air, good company and the simple pleasure of putting one foot in front of the other. Whether you arrive with a partner, a friend, or entirely solo, you’ll quickly find a sense of belonging. Many walkers say it’s the social side that keeps them coming back week after week.

Most Ramblers groups publish upcoming walks online and welcome newcomers to try a few with no pressure to commit.

Dress in warm layers, bring a waterproof and a flask, and don’t worry about keeping up. What matters isn’t speed or endurance, but simply showing up and enjoying the journey.

Annual membership is £45 for the year for individuals or £61 for a joint membership for two adults. For this, you will be supporting the national walking charity in their plight to remove barriers and preserve well-loved paths and tracks so that walking can be enjoyed by all.

You’ll also get a welcome pack, a copy of the charity’s Walk magazine, and access to a library of thousands of tried and tested walking routes. Plus, you’ll be able to join one of your local Ramblers groups.

Ramblers groups in South Yorkshire:

Barnsley and Penistone

Meet Wednesdays and Saturdays

Upcoming walks:

• Sat 17^th Jan Silkstone & Dodworth (9 mile)
• Weds 21^st Jan Worsbrough Reservoir (2 mile)
• Sat 31^st Jan Worsbrough Reservoir (5 mile)
• Weds 4^th Feb Pot House Hamlet (2 mile)
• Sat 7^th Feb Skelmanthorpe (6 mile)

Call 01226 384 041 or visit barnsleypenistoneramblers.org.uk

Dearne Valley

Meet Sundays and one Wednesday a month

Upcoming walks:

• Weds 21^st Jan Silkstone to Hoylandswaine (6 mile)
• Sun 25^th Jan Bradway (7.3 mile)
• Sun 1^st Feb Askern by the Lake (8.5 mile)
• Sun 8^th Feb Bramham Park (7 mile)
• Weds 18^th Feb Wortley (6.3 mile)

Pre-booking essential – contact walk leader via website www.dearnevalleyramblers.org.uk

Doncaster

Meet Tuesdays and Thursdays

Upcoming walks:

• Tues 20^th Jan Kneesall to Wellow (10.5 mile)
• Thurs 22^nd Jan Hooton Roberts (6 mile)
• Thurs 29^th Jan Misterton and West Stockwith (6 mile)
• Tues 3^rd Feb Monckton Manor to Newmiller Dam (11 mile)
• Thurs 12^th Feb Sprotbrough, Cusworth Park and TPT (6 mile)

Call 07754 248 879 or visit doncasterramblers.org.uk

Rotherham Metro District

Meet Wednesdays and Saturdays

Upcoming walks:

• Weds 21^st Jan Rivelin Valley (8. Mile)
• Sat 24^th Jan Norton (8 mile)
• Weds 28^th Jan Loxley Valley (9 mile)
• Sat 31^st Jan Sturton le Steeple (7 mile)
• Weds 4^th Feb Scarcliffe (7.5 mile)
• Sat 7^th Feb Baslow and the Mines (8.5 mile)

Call 07775 766 263

Find out more about The Ramblers in South Yorkshire by visiting www.synedramblers.org.uk