National Walking Month

Wednesday, 30 April 2025

As National Walking Month starts off on 1 May, Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) is inviting everyone to come and wander in the woodlands it manages.

With spring turning into summer there is no better time to enjoy the peace, calm and fresh air in a forest.

And as Scotland experiences another bout of hot weather – a woodland is also a great place to stay cool.

Stuart Chalmers, FLS’ National Visitor Services Manager, said;

“We look after forests all over Scotland that already get around 10 million visits every year.

“It sounds like a lot – and it is! - but there is plenty of room for everyone to come along and enjoy the calming, revitalising experience of a woodland visit.

“Whether you are looking for a challenging hike, a restful meander or anything in  between our forests offer something for people of all ages and all abilities. Our website is a good place to plan your day.

“Our forests are there for everyone to enjoy, so be courteous and mindful of other visitors and please behave responsibly to help ensure that everyone’s visit is a great day out.”

FLS is reminding all visitors to abide by the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, be sensible and to not take any risks.

Anyone enjoying a longer visits over a few days and planning to camp, should be mindful of the heightened wildfire risk. We ask there are no fires or barbecues to help protect the people, forests and wildlife.

All litter is also to be taken home or properly disposed of.

Anyone seeing signs of wildfire should call 999 immediately.

Notes to Editors

  1. Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
  2. Home Forestry and Land Scotland | twitter.com/ForestryLS
  3. Media enquiries to Paul Munro, Senior Media Manager, Forestry and Land Scotland Media Office 07785 527590 or paul.munro@forestryandland.gov.scot