Greater Manchester Walking Festival launches with 70-plus different walks in Bury

Bury is set to get moving this spring with the return of the GM Walking Festival, a month‑long celebration encouraging residents of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to enjoy the simple power of walking.

Taking place throughout May, the festival features 70+ volunteer‑led and community‑led walks across Bury.

Organised by GM Moving in partnership with local organisations, volunteer walk leaders, and community groups, the festival aims to inspire people to be more active, connect with their local area, and feel the mental and physical benefits of incorporating more movement into everyday life.

This year’s festival offers something for everyone — from leisurely wellbeing strolls, heritage trails and family‑friendly rambles to nature walks, accessible routes and longer-distance adventures for more experienced walkers. Many events are designed specifically to support people who are new to walking groups or looking to build confidence getting active outdoors.

Jon Hobday, Bury’s director of public health, said:

“The GM Walking Festival is about celebrating our brilliant region, bringing communities together, and showing that walking is for everyone. Whether you're taking your first steps toward getting more active or you’re already a keen walker, there’s a walk waiting for you this May.”

A Community‑Powered Festival

The festival is powered by local volunteers, community groups, charities, health teams, and walking organisations who help design and deliver the walks. Their contributions ensure that routes are inclusive, welcoming, and rooted in the unique character of each neighbourhood across Greater Manchester.

How to Get Involved

The full festival programme will be available online, allowing residents to browse walks by date, borough, distance, accessibility and theme.

• View the programme: [Festival Walks]
• Follow Bury Live Well Service: @burylivewellservice

ENDS

Press release issued: 10 April 2026.

Notes to Editors

• The GM Walking Festival is part of Greater Manchester’s ongoing ambition to become the first city‑region in the UK where walking is the natural choice for everyday short journeys.
• The festival aligns with the broader GM Moving in Action strategy, supporting healthier, happier, more active lives for everyone in the region.