Looking for a great way to enjoy the outdoors in the winter?

Fortunately, the Ramblers’ annual Festival of Winter Walks is back on throughout December and January with a selection of free walks across the South Hams.

On Thursday, December 28, the Ramblers’ will be exploring the Franklin Totnes Trail followed by mulled wine and mince pies at the Seven Stars Hotel. All partakers should meet at Totnes Plain at 10am.

For Dartmouth residents, there is another Christmas walk at 10.30am on the South West Coast Path from Little Dartmouth round to Dartmouth Castle on a 5.5 miles trek.

To bring in the new year, on Tuesday, January 2, the Ramblers invite walkers to join them on a three mile coastal stroll, from the Weary Ploughman Inn, Chusrton from 10.30am.

Additionally, the Ramblers will be exploring the countryside around Malborough on this same day. The eight mile circular route will start at Malborough Village hall car park at 10.30am, before continuing around Collaton, Bolberry and Inner Hope.

The Festival of Winter Walks, supported this year by players of People’s Postcode Lottery has been running for 25 years. From short, festive themed strolls with sociable drinks after, to more strenuous challenges, there’s a walk to suit everyone.

All group walks during the festival are free to attend, but the option of joining the Ramblers for the next year is always open. Membership gives you access to hundreds of group walks every year, an online library of over 2,500 Ramblers Routes and many other benefits.

Chief Executive of the Ramblers, Vanessa Griffiths said: “A foray out into the cold, fresh air is the perfect winter mood enhancer. And with such a diverse range of walks on offer, what starts out as a one-off Christmas or new year walk could lead to life-long friendships and a serious walking habit.”

Visit www.ramblers.org.uk/winter for details of hundreds of free group walks taking place across the country.