Local mum launches women's walking group

A social walking group has been set up for women across Tameside and Glossop to come together and share their love for the outdoors.

Women Who Wander was founded by 27-year-old Alexandra Stephenson-Kenyon, a health impact navigator and massage therapist from Dukinfield.

The mum-of-two said: "Every weekend I was either out with my boys, solo or with my friends and it just made sense to create a space where women can come together, share tips, meet in safe places and enjoy the biggest playground there is together.

"I didn't expect the group to blow up this much but it's so beautiful. I'm not a 'man hater' at all, that's not what this is about, but it's so sad seeing the number of women who lack that confidence to go out or just feel low within themselves."

She continued: “It can seem daunting going for a walk by yourself so I love this community we’ve made, with no one judging one another and everyone just able to be women together – and we love seeing new faces, the more the merrier!”

The group aim to meet up at least three times per month, which usually takes place on weekends.

However, as their community becomes more established, Alex hopes to organise a couple of wellness retreats too.

She described herself as a 'lover of nature' and said she created the group with the view of organising hikes, swims and 'all things outdoorsy'.

"I'm really looking forward to continuing connecting with like-minded people and women empowering women is just my thing," she added.

One walker said: "I feel like I have finally found my people. I was really struggling before and feeling very lonely, but I feel so positive now and it's a great way to get fit too."

The group will be enjoying their camping debut this Saturday at Coniston Hall; their first day will be spent doing water activities on the lake and exploring waterfalls before climbing up the 890m 'Old Man' on Sunday, weather permitting.