About this Event
Thursday Mornings. 10am. South East London
A gentle walk for people who are grieving
Grief can make the world feel very different. Sometimes you want to talk about it, sometimes you don't. Sometimes you want company, sometimes you just want to walk and breathe.
You don't have to walk alone with your grief.
My Mourning Walks are a regular Thursday morning walk for people who are living with grief and loss.
We will walk up to three miles, taking our time to notice the places we pass, the changing seasons, the trees, the sky, the birds and whatever else catches our attention. There is no requirement to talk about your loss or to explain how you are feeling.
You can talk if you want to. You can listen if you want to. You can walk quietly if you want to.
The walks will start from different train or bus stops that are easily accessible from Eltham High Street, allowing us to explore different green spaces across South East London. The exact meeting point and route will be provided when you book.
We'll finish at a local café, where you are welcome to stay for coffee, cake and conversation. You can also simply say goodbye and head home.
Come for the walk. Stay for the cake.
Why Mourning Walks?
I know from my own experiences of bereavement that sometimes being in nature can create a kind of space that is difficult to find elsewhere.
Away from chores, responsibilities and the expectations of everyday life, there can be time simply to feel what you are feeling. At the same time, the natural world continues around you: new leaves appear, birds sing, the seasons change, the sun comes up and there is air to breathe.
I can't promise that a walk will make life easier. But I do believe that having somewhere to walk with your grief can make a difference.
Mourning Walks are a place to do just that.
Who is it for?
Mourning Walks are for adults who are grieving any significant loss.
This might include the death of a partner, family member, friend, pet or someone else important to you. It might also include other significant losses such as the loss of a relationship, home, health, identitiy, work or way of life.
You don't have to be recently bereaved. You don't have to feel that you are "doing grief well". And you don't have to know exactly what you need.
If you are grieving, you are welcome.
What can I expect?
- A welcoming, small-group walk of up to approximately 3 miles
- A gentle, steady walking pace with opportunities to pause.
- Time outdoors in green spaces around South East London.
- No expectations to talk about your loss.
- Space for conversation if you would like it.
- A café stop at the end for optional coffee, cake and conversation.
- A variety of different routes, begining at a public transport location accessible from Eltham High Street.
Mourning Walks are NOT counselling or group therapy. They are a supported opportunity to walk, spend time outdoors and be alongside other people who understand something of what it means to grieve.
About Katie, your walk leader
Mourning Walks are led by me, Katie I am an experienced walk leader, qualified first aider and trained Shinrin Yoku guide.
I lead walks for a variety of community groups and forest bathing sessions for groups and individuals. I also have personal experience of bereavement, as well as volunteer peer-support experience.
I understand that grief doesn't follow a timetable and that sometimes what you need most isn't advice or another conversation about how you're coping. Somtimes you just need to get outside.
Practical Information
When: Thursday Mornings, 10am
How far: Up to approximately 3 miles
Where: Different locations around South East London, starting from train or bus stops accessible from Eltham High Street. The exact meeting point will be provided with your booking.
Duration: Approximately 2 hours, including the café stop
Cost: £10 per person. The £10 covers the guided walk only, it contributes to my time, my training and my insurance. Food and drink at the café is not included.
If cost would prevent you from attending, please get in touch. I can currently afford one free place on each walk for someone with a social prescription.
Clothing: Please wear comfortable footwear suitable for woodland, park and uneven paths and dress for the weather. We will be outdoors unless conditions make the walk unsafe.
By booking a session with Katie Smith, you confirm that:
You agree to the full Terms & Conditions (available on request and summarised below)
- You take part at your own risk and are responsible for your own wellbeing
- You will follow guidance given during the session
- You will come appropriately dressed and prepared for the outdoors
- You will inform me in advance of any relevant health conditions or access needs (7 days where possible)
- You understand the 48-hour cancellation policy
- If bringing a dog (walks only), you will keep it under control
These sessions are designed to be supportive, relaxed, and enjoyable—thank you for helping create a safe and welcoming space for everyone. By booking and/or attending, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms & Conditions and Disclaimer.
Event venue & nearby stays
Eltham High Street, Eltham High Street, London, United Kingdom
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