Walking is a great way to get around and feel good. Feeling safe and confident makes it easier to enjoy it.

These simple tips are here to help you feel more comfortable when walking — whether it’s the school run, a short trip or a longer stroll.

Plan your route

Knowing where you’re going helps you feel more relaxed.

Before you head out:

• Check your route and plan your journey
• Choose well-lit routes, especially after dark
• Stick to well-used streets and paths where possible
• Avoid cut-throughs and poorly lit shortcuts at night
• Share your location with a trusted friend or family member on your phone

Our journey planner and walking maps can help you find routes that work for you.

Be visible

If you’re walking in low light or after dark, being seen is important.

You should:

• Wear bright or reflective clothing
• Add reflective keyrings or stickers to bags
• Avoid dark colours where possible
• Sticking to well-lit paths and busier routes can also help you feel more confident.

Stay alert

It’s easy to get distracted, but staying aware helps keep you safe.

Try to:

• Keep music at a level where you can still hear what’s around you
• Be aware of cyclists, runners and other road users
• Avoid using your phone while crossing roads
• Use pavements where you can

If there’s no pavement, such as on a country lane, walk on the right-hand side of the road, facing traffic.

Whenever possible, pavements and shared paths are the safest option.

Teach children how to walk safely

It's important to teach children and young people about safe walking. 

Organisations like RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) offer valuable resources to help with this, like the Active Travel Hub resources for practitioners: RoSPA Active Travel Hub.

The Green Cross Code is a great place to start, and there are helpful resources available for parents, carers and schools.

See the My Journey online and interactive resources for teaching children to walk safely for more information: Road Safety Resources.

Road safety resources

Walking solo

If you’re unsure about walking on your own, you’re not alone. Many people feel more comfortable walking with someone else.

Why not see if a friend, family member or neighbour can join you? Walking together is a great way to catch up, feel more confident and enjoy some time outdoors.

If walking on your own is unavoidable, a few simple steps can help you feel more prepared:

• Choose familiar routes you know well
• Walk at times that feel right for you
• Let someone know where you’re going and when you expect to be back
• Try walking the route with someone else first, before doing it solo

Everyone’s walk looks different. Go at your own pace and do what feels right for you.

Keep exploring, safely

Walking should feel positive, simple and welcoming.

For more local routes, walking ideas and support:

• Visit the My Journey Wokingham Walking page
• Explore walking resources for your area

Enjoy getting out and about - every step counts.