Meet the Richardsons – and Why We Started Family Walks

Hi there! 👋 We’re the Richardson family

We are – Brad (Dad), Sarah (Mum), and our three boys: Alfie (13), James (9), and Billy (5). We live in a town called Loughborough in Leicestershire and, like many families, we’re always looking for ways to spend more time together that don’t involve screens, shopping centres or sitting in traffic. That’s where our love for walking came in.

This blog, Family Walks, started as a simple idea: to document the places we go walking as a family. But it’s become something more than that — it’s our way of sharing the joy, chaos, and connection that comes with getting outdoors together.

Why Walking?

Walking has become a big part of our family life. It’s free, it gets us all moving, and it gives us time to talk, laugh (and sometimes moan!) without the usual distractions. Whether it’s a muddy stomp through the woods, a peaceful canal walk, or a trail with a view that makes us stop in our tracks, each walk gives us a chance to reset — physically and mentally.

But for us, it’s not just about fitness or fresh air. It’s also about inclusion. Our youngest son Billy is autistic and non-verbal, and walks have become an important way for us to support his needs. Nature calms him, movement helps regulate him, and being outdoors gives him the freedom to explore in his own way. We want this blog to reflect the reality of walking with young kids — including children with additional needs — and to highlight how accessible and meaningful it can be for all families

What You’ll Find Here

This isn’t a glossy travel blog filled with perfectly posed photos. This is real life — complete with muddy boots, snack breaks, toilet dashes and the occasional sibling strop.

Here on Family Walks, you’ll find:

And hopefully… a bit of inspiration to get your family out walking too!

Tried-and-tested walking routes across Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire (and beyond, when we venture further)

Honest reviews of each location — how long the walk really is, whether it’s buggy-friendly, where to park, if there are toilets, good picnic spots, and how child-friendly the terrain is

Photos, tips and videos from our adventures to help you decide if it’s the right walk for your crew

Why We’re Sharing This

We started this blog because we wished something like it existed when we first started exploring walks as a family. Something simple, honest, and based on real experiences. Somewhere you could go to get a genuine feel for a place before dragging the kids out of the house.

If we can help just one family discover a new favourite trail or feel a bit more confident taking their child with additional needs out on a walk, then this will all be worth it.

So thank you for being here, for reading, and for walking this journey with us (literally!).
We hope you enjoy following along — and maybe even find a walk or two that becomes a favourite for your family too.

See you out there! 👣

— The Richardson Family