Walking in West Sussex

The seventh annual festival runs from Wednesday October 7 to Sunday October 11, and is based at Kew at Wakehurst, near Ardingly, with 25 walks looking at the culture, history, wildlife and heritage of West Sussex.

There's a wide range of walks including:

'Maps Made Manageable' '“ learn how to identify features on a map, take a grid reference and follow a compass bearing. After a morning of learning, put the theory into practice on a 4-mile walk around Ardingly and Wakehurst Place.

'Nature's Reserve '“ the Loder Valley' '“ access to the nature reserve is normally restricted. Iain Parkinson, Woodland Manager, Kew at Wakehurst, will lead this specially organised festival walk, which will focus on conservation, wild plants and wildlife.

'A Way Through the Woods' '“ A forest mystery tour starting from Kew which will bring to light the myths, legends and folk tales hidden within the woodlands at Wakehurst Place. Hear stories about the native and exotic trees, and tales about the Weald.

West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Economy Deborah Urquhart said: "The walking festival is enjoyed by hundreds of people each year. Don't miss out on your chance to explore the West Sussex countryside."

Vivien Lyth, from Festival Walks, said: "With walk topics from dinosaurs to drinking water, ghosts to ghylls, and trains to trees, we really do have something for everyone!"

The festival is organised by West Sussex County Council in association with Festival Walks and in partnership with Kew at Wakehurst.

For further information or a copy of the festival brochure contact Festival Walks on 01903 812727 or email [email protected]. Visit the County Council website at www.westsussex.gov.uk/walkingfestival to download a copy of the brochure and the booking form.