Shepton Mallet is inviting residents to join "Shepton Walks: Beat The January Blues" — a month‑long series of free guided walks starting on New Year's Day, with routes of varying distances to suit all ages and abilities.

Organised in partnership with Shepton Mallet Town Council, the initiative begins on Thursday, 1 January 2026, with a 4‑mile walk from the Market Cross at 11:00 am.

Further walks are scheduled for 4, 10, 18 and 24 January, with longer "Beating the Bounds" six‑mile routes planned on 10 and 24 January. Other walks have walking times or routes still to be confirmed. Walkers are urged to wear weather‑resistant, sensible shoes and suitable clothing.

Participants of all ages are welcome, and for more information organisers ask people to email [email protected].

The "Beating the Bounds" walks follow a traditional custom of walking parish or locality boundaries — a long‑standing practice intended to familiarise communities with their local area.

This blend of heritage, exercise and community spirit aims to help locals beat the post‑holiday slump and meet neighbours in a relaxed, welcoming setting.

With cost‑of‑living pressures and winter gloom affecting many, the scheme offers a free, healthy way to socialise and get outdoors during the quieter winter months. Residents across Shepton Mallet and surrounding areas are encouraged to take part.

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