Nature lovers wanting to know more about woodland wildlife are encouraged to book on one or more of the free woodland walks taking place as part of the Farnham Walking Festival.
Limited spaces are available on three guided walks specifically taking in woodland and each focusing on a different aspect of wildlife. The festival, which is organised by Farnham Town Council and a team of volunteer walking enthusiasts, includes around 40 walks in total and so far, more than 700 people have booked to take part.
“We have three excellent woodland nature walks to choose from which will suit different people depending on your interests and how keen a walker you are,” says Iain Lynch, Town Clerk at Farnham Town Council. “All the walks are organised and led by our knowledgeable and helpful volunteers who have very generously given up their time. The walks are free to join but it’s essential to book your places in advance as numbers are limited. You can book on the Walking Festival website at www.farnhamwalkingfestival.org.”
The Exploring the Countryside for Families on 24 May is aimed at families with children of all ages and takes place at Farnham Heath RSPB. To keep younger minds stimulated and make the walk as engaging as possible, family groups can explore and investigate the countryside and use the activity boxes provided. The schedule also includes time for a picnic lunch, making this a fun and relaxed atmosphere that parents and children will enjoy.
On 29 May, a wander in the Bourne Woods will take walkers on a scenic circular route down the Bourne Valley then into and around the Bourne Woods. Walkers will hear about local history, the wildlife found in the valley and woods as well as some fascinating anecdotes about filming in the woods.
Finally, a walk at Alice Holt Lodge on 31 May will encompass a trail of 30 specimen trees in the grounds of Alice Holt Lodge. Walkers will learn about several of the specimens that have survived from Victorian times when the lodge was a private residence. In more recent times, the Forestry Commission has planted further rare and interesting species, making this walk a must for tree enthusiasts.
As well as these three walks, there are plenty more to choose from during the Farnham Walking Festival which takes place from Sunday 19 May to Sunday 2 June. Walks are of varying lengths and challenge, with something for everyone. The programme includes routes suitable for wheelchair users, people with prams and children. The festival covers themes such as local history, arts, wildlife and other aspects of Farnham’s heritage. Experienced walking enthusiasts and those wanting a more generous stroll will all find something to appeal to them.
Free festival guides with full details of routes and guidance are available to pick up from the library and the Town Council office in South Street.
