Staying Active: Local Walking Groups and Clubs for Over-65s in Salisbury & Andover
Published: 22/09/2025
Staying active in later life is one of the best ways to protect your health, boost mood, and stay socially connected. For older adults, regular walking can help maintain balance, improve heart health, and reduce the risk of falls.
Here in Salisbury, Andover and the surrounding Wiltshire villages, there's no shortage of beautiful routes and friendly walking groups designed specifically for seniors. Whether you enjoy a gentle riverside stroll or a sociable ramble through the countryside, there's a club to suit every pace.
Why Walking Matters for Over-65s
Research shows that even a brisk 30-minute walk most days can:
- Strengthen muscles and joints, improving mobility and balance
- Support heart health and circulation
- Lift mood and reduce anxiety or depression
- Encourage social connection, lowering feelings of loneliness
For older adults in Salisbury and Andover, joining a local walking group is an easy, low-cost way to enjoy these benefits while exploring our beautiful historic landscapes.
Popular Walking Groups and Clubs Near You
1. Salisbury U3A Walking Groups
The University of the Third Age (U3A) in Salisbury runs a variety of walks, from short city strolls to longer countryside rambles, often including a pub lunch. Perfect for those looking to combine light exercise with conversation.
2. Wiltshire Ramblers - Salisbury & District
With over three hundred members, the Wiltshire Ramblers offers four walks weekly in areas including Cranborne Chase, the Wiltshire Downs, iron-age hill forts and ancient woodlands.
Free walks led by a qualified volunteer lasting approximately 60 minutes with a chance to stay for a drink and a chat afterwards. They have walks based in Andover meeting at The Lights Theatre and at Stockbridge.
Aiming to ensure everyone has access to free weekly walks by qualified leaders with varied routes each week.
Perfect for those who love the sport but want to play in a more leisurely way. Available for £5 a session every Thursday 10 - 11 am.
6. Get Out, Get Active (GOGA) - Wiltshire
Bringing people together to be active, and aims to engage the least active communities in fun, inclusive ways. Activities include walking football, pickleball, equestrian stable experience, gardening.
7. Radiant Yoga - Chair Exercise Class
A mix of exercises combining fitness, yoga, pilates and relaxation using a chair every week on Thursdays at 11:45 am.
8. Age UK's Fitness & Friendship Club
Perfect for social and gentle, seated exercises in numerous locations across the Salisbury area including: United Reform Church, The Bowman Centre, Tidworth & Nadder Close.
9. Salisbury Ladies Walking Football at Five Rivers
Every Thursday evening 5 - 6 pm the women-only walking football is available with a focus on fun and engagement.
10. Salisbury Walkers - Walking Hockey
A fun walking hockey club based at the Salisbury & South Wilts Sports Club.
11. Stonehenge Strollers Walking Football
A welcoming walking football club based in Amesbury with sessions every Wednesday evening at the Amesbury Lesiure Centre.
12. Amesbury RFC Walking Rugby
A non-tackle, no running rugby team welcoming players of all ages and ability in Wiltshire.
Salisbury Circular Walk is for those looking to challenge theirselves with some more strenuous paths boasting 20 miles of terrain through Salisbury.
Tips for Enjoying Your Walks Safely
- Wear supportive shoes with good grip
- Carry a bottle of water and any required medications
- Dress in layers and check the weather before heading out
- Use a walking stick if you need extra stability
- Walk with a friend or group for both safety and companionship
How Right at Home Salisbury & Andover Can Help
At Right at Home Salisbury & Andover, we know that staying active is key to healthy ageing. Our professional Care Assistants can:
- Accompany Clients on local walks or to organised walking groups
- Provide transport to trailheads or meeting points
- Offer gentle encouragement and companionship
- Help with mobility aids and ensure safety along the route
Whether you'd like a short stroll in the Cathedral Close, a coffee and walk around Wilton Garden Centre, or a weekly visit to a local wlaking club, our tailored homecare plans make it possible to stay active and independent.
Get Started Today
Would you or a loved one like support to enjoy Salisbury & Andover's beautiful walking routes?
Call 01722435615 or visit Right at Home Salisbury & Andover to arrange a no-obligation chat.
Keeping fit and connected doesn't need to stop at 65. Join a local walking group, breathe in the Wiltshire air, and enjoy the countless benefits of active ageing today.
