Walk This Way – explore the great outdoors at this year’s Garstang Walking Festival

Garstang Walking Festival 2018. Photo: Mike Coleran

Springtime has arrived which means it’s almost time for the Garstang Walking Festival!
The festival is coordinated by the Friends of Garstang Walking Festival, supported by Wyre Council and it features nine days of walks for all ages and abilities.

With almost 50 walks to choose from, the festival allows everyone to experience the best of springtime in the countryside around Garstang, the Forest of Bowland and the Fylde Plain.

This year’s programme includes a three day challenge, Nordic walking, one hour health walks, children’s activities, easy rambles, evening walks, dog friendly trails and everything in between.

Taking place from Saturday 4 to Sunday 12 May, the festival is now in its 15th year and the team at the Visit Garstang Centre are busy taking bookings for the activities.

If you’re up for a challenge, why not try the long distance three day series of walks known as “Knott to Tot”.  On Saturday 4 to Monday 6 May you can take part in three long walks exploring Wyre from the seashore to the Bowland Fells. These are strenuous walks for the seasoned hiker. Just come for one day or challenge yourself to all three!

If you prefer a slower pace, don’t worry, there’s plenty of other walks to enjoy including wildlife walks, historical walks, countryside rambles and even some activities that children can get involved in at Garstang Library.

There’s also two tramper treks, one at Dunsop Valley and one at Nicky Nook. Both are suitable to walk on foot or by tramper which is an all-terrain electric buggy, available to hire when you book you place, giving everyone the chance to take part.

Participants are asked to wear walking boots, all weather clothing and to bring a packed lunch (if appropriate) or a drink with them, and will be given details of what they need when they book their place.

Alison Boden, Coast and Countryside Manager at Wyre Council comments, “The fact that the festival is still going strong after 15 years is thanks to the enthusiasm and hard work of the Friends of Garstang Walking Festival, the volunteers, the walk leaders and the staff who put such a fantastic event together. There’s a range of walks meaning that there’s something for every age and ability. Wyre is particularly beautiful in springtime so why not book on to one or more walks and see what you discover. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or just looking to start walking to give your fitness a boost I’m sure you will find a walk that’s just right for you.”

To see the full programme of events, visit www.wyre.gov.uk/garstangwalkingfestival where you can download a copy of the brochure.

Booking is essential on almost all of the walks. If you would like to book a place on any of the walks you can book and pay by calling the Visit Garstang Centre on 01995 602125 or by visiting the centre in Cherestanc Square, Garstang, PR3 1EF.

Garstang Walking Festival 2018. Photo: Mike Coleran