Bury St Edmunds to host key events in Suffolk Walking Festival 2019
Hundreds of ramblers are expected to enjoy footpaths around Bury St Edmunds area during Suffolk Walking Festival.
The 12th annual event offers everyone the chance to participate in any of the 120 group walks taking place across the county.
Held from May 11 to June 2, the festival will also feature art and photography workshops, storytelling and a night safari.
There is also a challenge walk, which invites participants to complete 80 miles in five days along routes between Ipswich and Lowestoft.
And St Edmundsbury and Forest Heath districts feature prominently in the programme, organised in part by Suffolk County Council.
The launch event, in fact, will be held in West Stow Country Park on May 11 from 11am.
Other local events on the programme include a workout walk around Bury’s Tayfen Road Nature Reserve on May 14, a circular walk from Nowton Park in Bury to Harwick Heath on May 15, a 16 mile trek from Bury to Lavenham on May 16 and a walk from Nowton Park to Great Whelnetham on May 25 - which takes in a local bakery en route.
Councillor Mary Evans said: “It has always proved very popular and now, heading into its 12th year, it is firmly established itself as one of Britain’s premier walking festivals.
“I am thrilled to see such a wide range of walks and events in this year’s festival which is looking like the most imaginative year so far.
“There is something for everyone to enjoy so I would like to encourage as many people as possible to take part, get active and enjoy the beautiful countryside we have here in Suffolk.”
For full details, visit: www.suffolkwalkingfestival.co.uk