Sheffield Christmas Hike to Combat Loneliness Returns for Third Year

Over 100 people are expected to take part in this year’s Christmas hike through the Peak District.

The Sheffield Christmas Day Hike is an opportunity for people without anywhere else to go to make friends and have an enjoyable day.

The hike, which started in 2020, runs over six locations throughout the Peak District, including Bamford Edge, Derwent Reservoir and Mam Tor.

Damon Alexander Cole, the hike organiser, said: “It’s great seeing how much of a difference it’s made to people who were otherwise dreading Christmas. There are people that come that have lost loved ones, gone through a divorce or aren’t seeing their kids on Christmas day, or people with families in other countries.”

The first hike saw low numbers, and the second, roughly 30, but this year, projections are cast to more than 100.

Mr Cole said: “It’s been incredible, after lockdown people have felt so isolated so to get them out and socialising and making new hiker friends has been amazing.

“Even if only half turn up [this year] that will be insane. There are still so many weeks to go through so who knows.”

The hike is set to make regular stops at various beauty spots throughout the Peak District. This means that hikers can come and go throughout the day and do not have to commit to the entire day.

Mince pies and mulled wine will also be provided for hikers on the day.

Mr Cole added: “If you want to do something different, build some confidence and go out and meet some like-minded people, just push yourself and go for it, it will be such a good day.

“I’m proud of anyone who feels nervous coming, just know everyone will be in the same boat, and no-one for the most part knows anyone.”