Walkers will be able to choose from 90 routes across the Isle of Wight when the autumn Walking Festival returns next month.
The Autumn Isle of Wight Walking Festival will take place from 3rd-11th October, with coastal walks, countryside hikes, wildlife trails and history-themed routes among those on offer.
Now in its 27th year, the multi-award-winning festival is sponsored by Outdooractive and is one of the UK’s longest-running walking festivals.
The programme ranges from shorter, relaxed strolls to longer hikes, with many of the walks led by volunteer guides sharing their knowledge of the Island’s landscape, wildlife and history.
Among the opening-day highlights is a circular walk exploring the story of General Jack Seely and his famous war horse, Warrior.
The walk will be led by Seely’s great-great-nephew, Bob Seely, and will take participants through countryside associated with Warrior and his owner.
Maritime history also features prominently, with opportunities to explore the Cowes Maritime Heritage Trail and discover the seafaring history of East Cowes.
Elsewhere, walkers can explore Freshwater and the West Wight, visit the countryside around Tennyson Monument and The Needles or join walks offering the chance to spot the Island’s red squirrels.
Other themed walks will explore the women of Bonchurch, Ryde’s historic streets and cemetery, Fort Victoria and archaeological history around Culver Down.
More than half of the Isle of Wight is designated as National Landscape, while the Island is also a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and has around 500 miles of public footpaths.
The festival is coordinated by Visit Isle of Wight and funded through the Wight BID, with organisers hoping it will encourage more people to visit outside the traditional summer tourism season.
Around 68% of registered festival walkers come from the mainland or overseas, according to Visit Isle of Wight, bringing additional trade to accommodation providers, hospitality businesses and attractions during the quieter autumn period.
Most of the walks are free to attend and take place across the Island, with a number of routes accessible without the use of a car.
Dominic Wray, interim CEO at Visit Isle of Wight, said:
“Autumn is such a wonderful time to explore the Isle of Wight, and with 91 walks taking place this year, there really is something for everyone.
“Whether you’re an experienced walker looking for a challenge, someone who enjoys a gentle countryside stroll or you simply want to discover more about the Island’s fascinating history, wildlife and landscapes, the Walking Festival is a fantastic way to experience the Isle of Wight from a different perspective.
“Our volunteer walk leaders bring an incredible depth of local knowledge, enthusiasm and stories to the festival, and we’re hugely grateful to everyone who gives their time to make these walks possible.
“We look forward to welcoming visitors this October and encouraging people to pull on their walking boots and discover the Isle of Wight this autumn.”
Those wishing to take part are encouraged to book in advance, with availability varying between walks.
The full programme can be found at isleofwightwalkingfestival.co.uk.
