Kendal Walking Festival striding ahead

There’s a walk for everyone at this year’s Kendal Walking Festival over the late Spring Bank Holiday weekend in May.

Whether people want waterfalls, classic ‘horseshoe’ routes, sea views or a family outing, they will be hard pressed to not find something that gets their feet moving.

The team behind this year’s festival, Wellbeing Westmorland CIC, says there is an open invitation to everyone to join in. As well as visitors to the town, it is hoped that many locals will take up the challenge and perhaps try a walk they have never done before.

“The Kendal Walking Festival is an ideal opportunity to sample some great walks under the watchful eye of our experienced and knowledgeable walk leaders, who will guide you round the walk routes and share a wealth of interest about the area,” said Stuart Lockton, from Wellbeing Westmorland CIC.

The walks are graded from easy to moderate to strenuous. Locations range from Arnside in the south to Helvellyn and Ullswater further north.

“As Kendal was home to Britain’s most famous walks writer Alfred Wainwright (AW), we are again featuring a number of walks which will give opportunities for people to bag a few of the 'Wainwrights',” said Stuart.

“Some of the walks are on public transport routes, while others have transport available to reach the start point. There are also some walks that are very close to Kendal, so if you’ve never been to The Helm or Scout Scar, for example, now is your chance!”

The festival takes place from Saturday, May 25 to Monday, May 27. People can see the full programme of walks at kendalwalkingfestival.co.uk where they can also book tickets.

“We’ve have worked hard to arrange an appealing selection of local walks, working with Kendal businesses, professional walking guides and volunteers,” said Stuart. “We hope everyone will be able to take part.”

Peter Brendling, the manager of Kendal BID, which is supporting the festival, said: “Kendal has both the Lakes and the Dales on its doorstep and is a great central base from which to start many great walks.

“With its impressive range of shops, cafes, restaurants and accommodation providers, Kendal can cater for people’s breakfast, packed lunch, dinner and overnight accommodation.

“And Kendal’s hostelries provide a great place for people to relax and discuss the day’s walk with their fellow walkers.