The programme for May’s Chilterns Walking Festival spring event has been announced by the Chilterns Conservation Board, organiser of the popular festival. Running from Saturday 19 May to Sunday 03 June 2018, the programme includes over 80 guided walks, events and activities covering the whole of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) which stretches from Oxfordshire through Buckinghamshire and Bedfordshire into Hertfordshire.

The new programme includes specialist themed walks, and opportunities to discover lively stories and scenic landscapes associated with the Chilterns. Some walks include the prospect of sampling local food and drink, others provide ‘have-a-go’ sessions or chances to learn about the area’s wildlife, history and colourful characters.

The Spring programme opening weekend highlights include:

• Food, Farming and the Future – a walk around an organic family farm high up in the Chilterns near Prestwood, where there are different land uses, spectacular views and farmhouse tea & cake.
• Checking on Chequer – travel through ancient woodlands from Coombe Hill Monument, following the Ridgeway to enter the Chequers Estate, the country home of British prime ministers.
• Wild Bee Walk – join enthusiasts Joshua Wells and Stephen Howard at Aldbury Nowers Nature Reserve amid the small but beautiful flowers of chalk grassland which supports solitary bees and bumblebees.
• Walk the Chalk – on World Nordic Walking Day follow in the footsteps of ancient travellers along the Icknield Way to explore the flowers and late spring delights in Oxfordshire’s chalk hills.
• Cemetery Circular: Stepping Stones – Step into a peaceful haven in Berkhamsted, where dramatic storytelling and interpretation will bring some of the town’s past personalities to life.

Each walk is guided by an experienced leader who knows the area well and is keen to share stories of the people and places that have shaped the countryside.

Chilterns Conservation Board People and Society Officer Annette Venters said “The Chilterns is a rich source of inspiring stories about amazing people and places. Every year we uncover more which we are delighted to share through the Walking Festival programme. We want people new to the Chilterns, or new to walking, to feel comfortable that they will have a wonderful day out, meet new people and explore new areas without having to plan everything themselves”.

Details of all guided walks, events and activities available in the spring programme can be found on the website www.visitchilterns.co.uk/walkingfest. Most are free of charge; some require a small fee which is clearly shown. To assist walk leaders with expected numbers, all walk places must be pre-booked via the website.