January Walk & Talk Festival returns to boost mental wellbeing throughout Lochaber

The Walk & Talk Festival aims to bring people together in nature while fostering conversations about mental wellbeing in a relaxed, inclusive setting.

In 2025, participants collectively walked 803 miles during the January campaign, with support from local community groups.

This year the charity has received funding from Active Highland to grow the festival to span all of Lochaber, all of the month.

"We hope to exceed last year’s total with contributions from walkers of all ages and abilities," said a Ewen’s Room spokesperson.

"For that reason, we’ve teamed up with The Mama Tribe who are offering pram-friendly walks for families in Caol.

"Walks are open to everyone — no booking is required. To join, you can simply turn up at the meeting points listed on the Ewen’s Room website, bring suitable footwear and clothing, and enjoy a stroll at your own pace.

"Our Wellbeing Officers are happy to support you with any accessibility needs."

Participants are also encouraged to track their miles and submit their totals to Ewen’s Room, and those interested in fundraising can download a fundraising pack to help support the charity’s ongoing work providing community wellbeing activities, workshops, counselling and drop-in support across Lochaber.

Ewen’s Room is a Lochaber-based mental health and wellbeing charity promoting mental wellbeing and reducing stigma around mental health in rural communities.

Its work includes community drop-ins, creative wellbeing workshops, youth support, counselling services, and initiatives like Walk & Talk that encourage connection, support and open conversation.

For full walk listings, updates and more information, visit www.ewensroom.com/2026-
walk-and-talk/ or contact info@ewensroom.com.

Walk updates and reminders will also be shared via the charity’s social media channels.