I hate walking on my own

I am so with you on this, now in the same situation as you.

Having done 6 years as a full time professional multi dog-walker, at that time I could never understand people who looked on enviously and admitted to me that they just couldn’t go out alone.

Only now do I understand.

The few times I have revisited these same walks, now alone, I come home in tears and feel utterly depressed. Whereas I used to take joy in each moment, looking at the trees, hedgerows and nature, now it’s just an acute reminder of what I have lost.

I have gained some positivity by joining friends on walks - the walking and talking with other people is brilliantly uplifting and great therapy, but as you say, others go longer distances and at faster speeds!

I am about to start being pro-active about walking on my own, widowed, in nice quiet places in the countryside. I do get out on my own but via a cycle and that gives me something else to concentrate on. In fact I am leaving in 20 minutes and will be outside in NT grounds around a property. I woun`t be long, just enough to breathe in the fresh air and be grounded. The days of going on long walks in mid wales are gone, very sad about that but it was all moorland and woods and I am too twitchy for that

Would you not consider getting a dog OP? I probably wouldn’t walk much unless I had to get from A to B but I have a dog so love our daily walks. You also meet a lot of other dog owners and I’ve made friends that way.

Please do not walk alone with headphones or earbuds unless you are in a built up area with people about.
A close friend of mine suffered what could have been a very serious attack some years ago when a man came up behind her when she was unaware.
It was still serious enough to warrant a court case and left her traumatised.

I'm the opposite really. I prefer walking alone as I can go at my own pace and rest when I need to.
The only time I'm nervous is in deep dark woods, so I tend to avoid those.

Yes, I notice most people walking on their own have a dog. Not my scene though.
I fear U3a Or other walking groups would be too strenuous For me and too regimented. I am one of those who needs the loo frequently so any walks have to fit in with that.

Our village have 'Walking for Health' groups. There are 3 different lengths and are led by council trained leaders. The routes vary from week to week.

I know lots of Councils organise these. Are there any near you.

Alternatively, what about a playlist and headphones?

Offer to take a dog, they are such good company and show such joy being out and about.

We have a dogs trust near us and can take out the homeless dogs. Also neighbours may be grateful especially if they are a bit ancient or ill etc.

You are never alone with a dog??

Have you looked into such organisations as U3A to see if they have a walking group? Although any U3A group that meets indoors is not yet permitted, those that are outside are getting going again.