How Fit Do You Need to Be for a Garden Tour?
A little story, a bit of practical advice—and how to make sure you’re ready to enjoy every step of your tour.
A Story That Stayed With Me
Not long ago, on one of my garden tours, a guest turned to me with a quiet smile and said something that’s stayed with me ever since:
“I feel like I’m holding everyone back.”
She’d had knee replacement surgery a few months earlier and signed up for the tour thinking she’d be ready to walk comfortably again. And for the most part, she was—but her new knee wasn’t quite as cooperative as she’d hoped.
There were a few walks she had to skip, a visit or two that was just a bit too much. On one occasion, she stayed behind to chat with our charming host in the garden—and ended up having a wonderful afternoon.
At the end of the tour, she told me she wasn’t sorry she’d come. She’d loved the company, the beauty, the pace. What she missed, she said with a shrug, “Well… I just missed it.”
Her experience prompted me to write this piece—because it’s an important (and often unspoken) question.
So How Fit Do You Need to Be for a Garden Tour?
Let’s be honest: visiting gardens requires walking.
Not miles and miles all at once, but enough that it matters. The kind of walking where you might be on your feet for stretches of time, exploring large estates, climbing gentle slopes, or wandering through uneven paths.
And while my tours are slow-paced and thoughtful, they do ask for a bit of balance, stamina, and a comfortable relationship with your feet.
This isn’t about speed—it’s about being able to keep going and feel good doing it.
What I Usually Tell People
- You should feel comfortable walking at least a mile at a time, more than once a day.
- Paths may include gravel, grass, cobblestones, slopes, or stairs.
- Walkers or wheeled mobility aids don’t suit the terrain.
- Telescopic walking poles can be a wonderful support—especially if you’re unsure of your balance.
And if you’ve had surgery, a recent injury, or simply aren’t used to walking much: start preparing early. A little effort now makes the whole trip more enjoyable later
One Guest's Secret? Train for It.
One of my most devoted guests actually prepares before each trip. She walks 10,000 steps a day, skips the elevator, and builds stamina before we set off—so she can enjoy every garden with ease.
You don’t need to be an athlete. But being prepared truly makes all the difference.
Can I Accommodate Slower Walkers?
Absolutely. My groups are intentionally small, which allows for flexibility. If you’d prefer to sit out a longer walk, there’s usually a quiet bench and a view worth staying for.
But—the steadier and more confident you are, the more freely you’ll be able to explore. And that’s what I want for you.
Not Sure If a Tour Is Right for You?
Don’t guess—please ask. I’m always happy to walk you through the terrain, pace, and distances for any specific itinerary. That way, we can make sure it’s a good fit before you book. You deserve to feel safe, confident, and at ease. And a little preparation helps you get there.
Because it’s not just about where we go, it’s about how you feel when you get there.
And that’s what makes the journey truly rewarding and memorable.
If you have any queries about my garden tours, please contact me here and I’ll be happy to answer any questions you have.
