“I know the benefits of walking and I would say that through the pandemic, we were in a dark place.

“I thought it would be great to see if we could get more people out so they could feel the benefits of what walking does for them,” says Sophia.

“It was important for me to create this walking group for black women because I didn’t see any black women or women of colour walking in certain places where I used to walk.”

Boosting mental health 

It is while standing on the National Cycle Network that Sophia reflects on the importance of walking and accessing nature.

The founder of Bristol Steppin Sistas admits it is quite emotional when she thinks about the difference the group has made to the lives of women who join the walks.

Whether building up the confidence to explore alone, boosting mental health or improving sleep, Sophia is now able to share the multiple benefits of getting outdoors with others.

And she says it wouldn’t be possible without the National Cycle Network as a vital link between communities and the countryside on their doorstep.

“[The National Cycle Network] has helped my group tremendously.

“Without these paths it would be difficult to do these walks.”

Creating a safe, supportive environment

Sophia grew up in the countryside around Bath and has always felt a deep connection to nature.

Wanting to encourage others to feel the multiple benefits of walking outdoors in a safe and supportive way, Sophia set up Bristol Steppin Sistas in April 2021 and saw 25 women join on the first walk.

The events manager describes how the group has helped members build up a lot of confidence; many of the women now go out solo walking and use it for their mental health.

One woman said she hadn’t slept in years, but slept well after joining the walks.

Sophia’s story is one of five very different stories we are sharing to celebrate the impact and diversity of the National Cycle Network as part of a new campaign.

‘We are committed to understanding barriers and helping to overcome them’

Zoe Banks Gross, Head of Partnerships and Public Affairs for Sustrans South, said:

“Sophia’s story is a shining example of the importance of creating safe spaces for everyone to experience the benefits of moving and being outdoors.

“We are so happy that the National Cycle Network is there to enable these women – and so many others from all walks of life – to explore the joys of green space on their doorstep in a safe and accessible way.

“This link between urban and rural communities is vital to ensure everyone can feel the many benefits of being outdoors no matter where they live.

“There are multiple reasons why some people may not feel that walking, wheeling or cycling is for them and, at Sustrans, we are committed to understanding these barriers and helping to overcome them.

“We are grateful to Sophia for sharing her story and hope it inspires others to use the National Cycle Network in their area to explore.”

'The National Cycle Network is for all, for everyone to enjoy'

Spanning more than 12,000 miles across the UK, the National Cycle Network is waymarked by a number in a little red square.

It's affectionately known as the spine of walking, wheeling and cycling in the UK, and a beloved part of our active travel heritage.

Our staff and volunteers work to care for and improve this vital infrastructure, while championing a long-term vision for its future, which includes ensuring the paths are accessible for everyone. 

The Network needs your support to remain safe, accessible and open for everyone - donate today.

Find out more about the National Cycle Network and our campaign to protect and improve it for generations to come.