Walking Into Connection: Our May Adventures for National Walking Month 💜

May is National Walking Month here in the UK — a celebration of the simple, joyful act of walking and all the ways it can benefit our health, happiness, and sense of community. It’s a reminder to slow down, step outside, and connect with the world — and each other — one footstep at a time. At IOW Adventure Girls UK, walking is what brought us together — and this May, we embraced the theme wholeheartedly with a month full of amazing walks, new faces, and unforgettable memories.

We kicked things off with a climb to Worsley Monument, looping back via the grand ruins of Appuldurcombe House. The climb was well worth it — the views from the top are simply breath-taking. Being able to see both Culver Down and Tennyson Down from one spot really puts into perspective just how beautifully small and wild our island is.

Next, we took things into the woods with a peaceful evening stroll around Parkhurst Forest. We strayed off the beaten path for a proper little adventure — though the squirrels were hiding from the hide that night, the forest gave us all the magic we needed.

Then came the big one — the one we’d all been building up to: Walk the Wight. What an absolutely fantastic (and challenging) day that was. Although we were separated at the start line, we were united in spirit. It was a hot one, and there were definitely a few blisters and tears, but we danced at the checkpoints, encouraged each other along, and every one of us crossed that finish line. A huge achievement for all involved!

After that, we headed south for a more mindful pace, walking from Ventnor to Steephill Cove to mark the start of Mental Health Awareness Week. This walk was all about gentle reflection. We left behind painted stones with quiet messages — small reminders for anyone who needed a moment of kindness and calm.

Once we’d all recovered from Walk the Wight, we tackled the climb to Headon Warren. The views were absolutely stunning, and it felt like a real adventure. We wrapped up the walk with food and drinks at The Waterfront, where we shared stories, laughs, and a well-earned rest.

The weather kept us on our toes next with a gentle evening stroll around St Helens Duver, trying to outwalk the rain. Even with the clouds overhead, the walk was a peaceful one — full of connection and fresh sea air.

And finally, to round off National Walking Month, we took a lovely wander to Quarr Abbey and the surrounding coastline. This shorter walk was just perfect — we welcomed more lovely new ladies to the group and ended the evening down on the beach, feeling completely free in the golden light.

To every woman who walked with us this month — thank you. Whether you joined for one walk or many, you are the heart of this growing community. Your energy, warmth, and courage to show up is what makes IOW Adventure Girls UK so special. Here's to many more miles together, shared stories, and soul-filling adventures.

💜 Keep walking wild, ladies.