The attraction of the UK’s walking festivals

Being guided on a wildlife rich trail, or to a high peak, or past a wealth of historical gems makes walking so much more rewarding. And if you are new to walking, or don’t know an area too well, or you simply prefer walking with like-minded people then a walking festival is ideal for you. Across the UK, there are a host of great walking festival including a wide array of walks with wildlife, historical or geological themes.

Six reasons to go to a walking festival

• Visit a new location
• Find new walking routes
• Follow knowledgeable guide
• Push your walking challenges
• Meet new people
• Stay fit and healthy

Guide to walking festivals in the UK summer and autumn 2012

Stalham with Happing Festival Where: Norfolk When:  June 2 to September 30 What: Eight “water to land” walks will make the most of the Norfolk Broads and coastline. There will be knowledgeable walk leaders offering historical info along the route. Ramblers’ Summer Evening Walks Festival Where: Nationwide When: July 1 to 31 What: A new festival for 2012. Volunteers will organise short, easy and family-friendly walks that can be fitted in after work. Conwy Walking Week Where: Conwy, North Wales When: July 4 to 11 What: The festival will take in fabulous coastal scenery and the historic walled town of Conwy. Pendle Walking Festival Where:  Pendle, Lancashire. When: September 1 to 9 What: Free guided walks every day to suit walkers of all abilities, ranging from easy canal-side walks to hard excursions on open access land. Scottish Borders Walking Festival Where: Eyemouth, Borders When: September 1 to 9 What: Eyemouth and the surrounding towns are the focus of a popular walking festival.   Blairgowrie and East Perthshire Walking Festival Where: Perthshire, Scotland When: Sept 13 to 16 What: Lots of A to B walks (transport included) to make the most of the wonderful scenery. Cowalfest 2012 Walking and Arts Festival Where: Cowal Peninsula When: October 5 to 14 What: Cowalfest offers a wide range of walks with something for all ages and fitness levels. This is the fest's 10th anniversary! The Fal River Autumn Walking Festival Where: Cornwall When: October 19  to November 4 What: Fal River is beautiful, and the walking festival makes the most of that! Please tell us about other walking festivals this summer and autumn in the UK.