Building upon the success of last year’s month long Walking Festival, Alton Town Council is once again staging its 2019 event throughout the entire month of May. The programme of walks on offer will entice even more people to get out there and take in some of the best views available in Hampshire.

This year, for the first time, some evening walks of up to 2 hours duration have been included to cater for families who wish to be able to walk together after school or work. The Festival will also continue to encourage those who have not considered walking before to take the opportunity of taking their first steps towards improving their health and wellbeing.

The Festival will offer walkers a range of guided walks enabling them to explore the town and surrounding countryside, featuring walks of 2 – 10 mile durations as well as several feature walks taking in longer distances. Whether you are looking to delve into the town’s history, enjoy the local shops, cafes and restaurants or are a keen walker looking to enjoy a day out in the East Hampshire countryside, the programme will offer something for all ages and abilities.

Alton Town council have worked with committed local walking groups and walking enthusiasts to put together a programme of walks to develop walking in and around Alton. The ever-popular Town Guided Walks will provide an opportunity for residents and visitors to learn some more about the history of Alton getting to know the nooks and crannies of lesser known areas in the town. Alton Ramblers will be providing a number of Walk Leaders for this year’s festival offering some 12 walks covering a range of routes designed for the experienced walkers. Other volunteer groups will feature walks for beginners as well as those looking to improve their fitness.

The feature walk of the Festival will be The Six Hills of Alton - launched in 2018 and back by popular demand, this allows the more serious walker the opportunity to take in the breath-taking views from six of the best vantage points of Alton.