The first five-day Reading Walks Festival will be held in May, bringing to life the heritage, wildlife and landscapes of Reading and surrounding countryside on more than 40 guided walks.

Reading Walks Festival will run from Wednesday, May 10 to Sunday, May 14, with most walks being offered free of charge.

The inaugural event is being run by REDA, Reading’s Economy and Destination Agency. Each walk is planned and led by a local volunteer who will be sharing their expertise and enthusiasm for Reading.

The festival will be suitable for all ages and walking ability with walks ranging in length from a one-hour wellbeing stroll to a two-day pilgrimage.

The Reading Walks Festival programme is diverse: including guided walks following in the footsteps of medieval pilgrims, tracing the early life of poet Wilfred Owen, strolls around Reading conservation areas, a look at famous architecture and Reading’s public art, walks along the route of the iconic 17 bus route, rediscovering a lost railway line and dipping into the history of Reading’s local brewing industry.

For nature lovers there are wildlife walks along the Thames and Kennet, explorations of parks and gardens and walks into the countryside.

 

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Festival Organiser, Alex Brannen, said: “Reading is a fantastic combination of amazing urban history and wonderful green spaces, wildlife and easy to access countryside. The Reading Walks Festival aims to introduce people to our urban heritage and culture as well as showcase the diversity of the local wildlife and landscapes.

“You don’t need to be a keen walker to take part.  Our guided walks range in length from an hour’s gentle walk to 40 km along the St James’ Way. And thanks to the generosity of our volunteer guide leaders, the majority of the walks are free.”

All walks must be booked in advance. The full programme and detailed information about each walk, along with booking instructions, can be found at readingwalksfestival.org