Sunderland’s Big Walk is Back!

Starting in Herrington Country Park at 9am, the Active Sunderland BIG Walk sees hundreds of people of all ages set off on one of the three, eight or 12 mile route options.

Entry prices start from £5 per person for the three mile route, with discounts for groups on the bigger and more challenging eight and 12 mile routes. Everyone who takes part receives an event t-shirt, medal and finisher goodies. Entries are open now and can be completed online at:  Active Sunderland BIG Walk – MySunderland

The three mile walk includes a visit from special characters who will help lead the way, a nature trail and Active Sunderland family games. This route is perfect for families and smaller children.

The more challenging eight and 12 mile routes take walkers outside of the park onto footpaths through open countryside and ancient woodland, and along the banks of the River Wear.

The City Council’s Cabinet Member for Vibrant City, Councillor Linda Williams said: “Great news that our BIG Walk is back again in 2022. Previous walks have seen hundreds of people getting out and about, being active and getting their steps in.

“The walk is great for families and youngsters on the shorter routes, and for groups who fancy a bit more of a ramble and a challenge then the longer routes along the river banks and around Penshaw are perfect.

“The BIG Walk is also a great opportunity for groups to sign up and fundraise for their own chosen charities, and with the great new lower entry prices we hope to see lots of people taking part on the day.”

To get some practice in, walkers can join the Active Sunderland Wellness Walking Programme. This is a FREE and friendly programme of weekly volunteer led walks. See:  Wellness Walking – Sunderland City Council

Cllr Williams added: “Our walks happen throughout the year, taking advantage of our outstanding coast, parks and greenspaces. Lasting between 30 and 90 minutes, they offer the perfect opportunity to get outside, get active and meet new people, and you get some practice in for the Big Walk.

“We’ve been running these Active Sunderland events since 2010 and they’ve helped thousands of residents to get outdoors and get moving to improve their physical and mental wellbeing. Why not join us?”

For more information please contact active@sunderland.gov.uk

Further opportunities to get active can be found at Swim, Bike, Run Sunderland – MySunderland:  Active Sunderland – Sunderland City Council