The programme for the 2020 Farnham Walking Festival is out now.
The Walking Festival is organised by Farnham Town Council in partnership with local walking enthusiast Guy Singer, and with additional support from an army of volunteer walk leaders.
The festival takes place from 16 May to 7 June. All information, including practical advice about what to wear, is on the festival website www.farnhamwalkingfestival.org. The website shows how long each walk is, how challenging it is, whether it is wheelchair accessible or suitable for pushchairs plus details about how to book, which is essential for many of the walks.
Guy Singer who oversees the planning of the festival’s walks, says: “Last year many of our walks were so popular that they were oversubscribed, and I know some were disappointed that they could not join us. To help avoid that this year, we have more than doubled the number of events and added in some great new routes.
“Walking has so many benefits – it’s great for physical fitness but also our mental health, the opportunity to socialise in a relaxed environment, and helping us feel connected to where we live. I’m looking forward to welcoming even more people to the festival to inspire people’s interest in Farnham and sharing the love for our fantastic countryside.”
Councillor Alan Earwaker, Lead Member for Tourism and Events says: “Building on 2019’s very successful festival, the number and variety of walks has increased substantially.”
He adds: “The programme, put together by Guy Singer, includes walks for every ability, from gentle half-mile informational events to 15-mile, day-long hikes – with plenty of choice in between. We have included walks suitable for young families with pushchairs to some challenging or adventurous routes off the beaten track for more experienced walkers.
“Whatever your age, fitness level, walking ability or interest, you should find something that appeals to you. Among this year’s walks are a Shakespeare themed interactive walking tour, a family treasure hunt, a walk taking in the Hogs Back Brewery and a ghost walk – I’m sure residents will agree that even just these walks cover lots of different interests!”
The routes, which include stunning countryside and local places of interest, are planned by a team of knowledgeable walking enthusiasts who will also lead the walks. Many of the walks are themed around wildlife, history, culture or other interests. There are also routes with specific groups in mind, such as a lunchtime networking walk for the business community and an early morning walk for those with time available at the beginning of the day.
Perhaps this year’s most ambitious walk is the full 34-mile route of the Pilgrims’ Way which will be walked in three parts across three days. A less strenuous but equally enjoyable series of events will be community walks from each of the area’s villages followed by a picnic.
