Step by Step – Narinder’s 2,500 Lifewalks

When Narinder sold his wholesale food business and retired 21 years ago, he discovered a passion for nature and the outdoors that led him to take part in more than 2,500 wellbeing walks, which for the last three years have been in Lee Valley Regional Park.

After trying golf and the gym for exercise Narinder, 79, saw a leaflet at his local GP surgery advertising Lifewalks, a new programme of regular sociable walks to help people stay active and avoid social isolation.

“I started walking and never looked back. It’s a lovely community who are all from different walks of life. The Lifewalks are good for socialising and for mental stimulation as well as physical health.”

The programme offers walks of varying lengths to suit all abilities and since 2023 has been run by the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority at locations throughout the 26 mile long Lee Valley Regional Park.

“I love walking at all times of the year – in sun, snow rain!” adds Narinder, who travels from his home in Chigwell, Essex to enjoy the free Lifewalks, which take place up to five times a week. “I always enjoy the walk whatever the weather. Everyone likes a walk on a nice warm sunny day but sometimes you appreciate them more in the winter as it gets you out and provides people with something to do, adding structure to the day.”

Around 100 people are regulars on the park’s Lifewalks, which were launched by Epping Forest District Council 21 years ago before moving to Lee Valley Regional Park. Routes ranging in length from 1.5-3 miles take place throughout the north and south of the park and are led by park staff and volunteers.

A father of three and grandfather, Narinder surpassed his 2,500th Lifewalk in May 2026, an impressive achievement which has seen him clock up around 6,000 miles.

“I’ve always kept count of the walks – it’s a habit. I’ve averaged around 120 walks a year. I do all the walks over two miles and I like to walk quite fast as it’s good for fitness. Some people have become very fit thanks to taking part in the Lifewalks

“When I ran my own business, it took up all of my time and there was no space for anything else. After I retired, I began a new routine and wanted to get out in nature. It was a big change, but I feel fitter and healthier for it. Lee Valley Regional Park has a lot of lakes, and I love the walks round the water. The views are beautiful. We are very fortunate living in this part of the world with the Lee Valley on our doorstep.”

Lee Valley Regional Park offers a wide range of free activities aimed at helping people be more active. More than 20 sessions a week are on offer – from Nordic walking, cycling for health, group exercise sessions, mental health swims, sensory walks and the Lifewalks. Discover more here.