Fresh air enthusiasts are invited to explore the hidden gems of Erewash borough this May, with over 35 organised rambles lined up for Erewash Walking Month. The free, volunteer-led programme of walks offers something for everyone, whether residents live in town or countryside. The strolls are ideal for those interested in local history, nature, or simply socialising with friends or meeting new people.
Walk Options for All Abilities
The walks range from short, accessible routes to medium and longer hikes. The packed programme aims to encourage people of all abilities, from those who rarely walk to those who can easily manage several miles. Volunteer walk leaders will cater to individual paces, helping participants on the path to a fitter, healthier life. Strolls start in mornings, afternoons, evenings, and weekends to maximise participation.
Routes and Highlights
Routes include gentle ambles in and around Ilkeston and Long Eaton, as well as trails showcasing picturesque villages. There is even a spookily named Coffin Walk. Twenty-one of the paths are being relaunched by the borough council to increase awareness. The first relaunch walk, The Packhorse Trail, starts on Saturday, May 2, at The Bridge Inn in Duffield at 10:30am and lasts until 1pm. The Coffin Walk near Shardlow takes place at the end of the month.
Personal Story: Paul Collins
A passionate supporter of Erewash Walking Month is Paul Collins, 59, who took up regular strolls after a hospital stay where medics warned him to be more active. Paul said: "That’s how I found the Monday Strollers – a morning walking group in Ilkeston that meets most weeks at Victoria Park Leisure Centre at 10:15am. Not knowing anybody locally – I’m a Londoner – I very quickly found myself being introduced to the area by a very sociable group I now call my friends." He is proud to have become one of the group’s leaders. "They were looking for someone to co-ordinate transport for the monthly bus they take further afield during the summer. I stepped up and gradually got more involved in the group's organisation, working with other walking groups and Erewash Borough Council."
Council Organiser
Rachel Scott, from the council’s Community Health and Wellbeing Development team, said of her work organising Erewash Walking Month: "It is ideal for increasing the diversity of walks in the area. One of our hosting organisations, Friends of Bennerley Viaduct, will kick things off on Friday, May 1, with the three-mile Marlpool Station to Bennerley Viaduct walk. It starts at The Field at Heanor at 10am."
Other Strolls
Other strolls during the month include a 10am Community Crafty Walk starting at Our Crafty Place in Ilkeston. Elvaston Night Walks will be held every Thursday evening. The full programme of walks can be found on the council’s website at Erewash Walking Month. People can simply turn up to join many walks, but some require advance booking.
Coffin Walk and Finale
The last day of the month – Sunday, May 31 – features The Coffin Walk and Shardlow Circular. The route includes a path from Breaston used to carry coffins to Church Wilne before the village got its own graveyard in 1824. The walk starts at 10:30am behind Draycott Fish Bar and ends at 3:45pm. Before the finale, a Family Treasure Hunt will be held on Friday, May 29, at West Park Leisure Centre in Long Eaton from 10am.
Council Encouragement
Cllr Josy Hare, Erewash’s lead member for Health and Wellbeing, urged residents: "Don’t miss out on all the great chances to make the most of what will hopefully be glorious spring weather. The fantastic walks that have been lined up throughout May are meant to be a gentle introduction to the benefits of a stroll in the fresh air – with some fascinating opportunities to learn more about our beautiful borough."
Additional Information
A fact-packed YouTube video about The Coffin Walk and Shardlow Circular route – including how it crosses a long-lost Roman road built to transport lead – can be viewed at: Breaston Circular - Church Wilne and the Rivers Walk, Derbyshire day hike.
