Eastbourne Walking Festival Returns For Its 10th Year

Sunday, 3 September 2023 06:00

A 10-day walking festival returns to Eastbourne from September 15 to 24, aimed at encouraging people to get out and about, be more active and discover the joys of walking.

There are 49 guided walks which are free to book at www.EastbourneWalkingFestival.com/book.

From tranquil strolls and historic trails through to challenging hikes across the South Downs National Park, there is something for everyone of all ages and abilities.

All walks are free to sign up to, but many will fill up very quickly and people are encouraged to sign up in advance to avoid disappointment.

Among this year’s walks is a 3.5-mile guided introduction to the Downs; a 12.5-mile walk along the South Downs Way; a Downland Ramble from Eastbourne Golf Club to Birling Gap and a Walking with Resistance event across three of the Seven Sisters.

Away from the countryside, there is a chance to discover the stories and histories of 10 seafront churches; a Seahouses History Tour; and a seafront walk with local dance artist Yanaëlle Thiran featuring choreographed performances along the route.

Eastbourne’s Walking Champion Gill Mattock said:

“There really is something for everyone at this year’s 10^th Eastbourne Walking Festival.

“The festival acts as a springboard to promoting the health and wellbeing benefits of discovering walking as a way of life and is carefully curated to provide something for everyone despite age or mobility.

“It has been designed to introduce and inspire visitors and residents of Eastbourne to the incredible trails, paths, and stories of discovery both in our beautiful Victorian town and in the South Downs National Park on our doorstep.

“The festival pulls together knowledgeable, experienced walk leaders and industry experts to put on a programme of strolls, walks and hikes during the 10-day event.”

For further information on the Eastbourne Walking Festival, visit www.EastbourneWalkingFestival.com.