REDA, Reading’s Economy and Destination Agency, has launched the first Reading Walks Festival which will take places from 10-14th May 2023 and encompass over 40 guided walks bringing to life the stories, heritage, wildlife and landscapes of the historic town and surrounding countryside.

Led predominately by local volunteers plus a few professional guides, the majority of the walks are being offered free of charge.  The festival will be suitable for all ages and walking ability with walks ranging in length from a one-hour wellbeing stroll to a two-day pilgrimage.  As Reading is excellently served by public transport, most of the walks are designed to start and end at bus stops or railway stations enabling walkers to use the greenest transport they can to join the walks.

The diverse programme includes guided walks following in the footsteps of medieval pilgrims, tracing the early life of poet Wilfred Owen, strolls around Reading conservation areas, a look at famous architecture and Reading’s public art, walks along the route of the iconic #17 bus, rediscovering a lost railway line and dipping into the history of the town’s local brewing industry. There are also numerous nature and wildlife walks, waterfront walks along the Thames and Kennet, explorations of the town’s historic parks and gardens, the University’s 395 acres of  campus ground and the surrounding countryside.

The focus of the festival is as much about telling the stories of Reading as walking for its own pleasure, so there will be lots of stops along the way to find out more about Reading and the surrounding area.

Alex Brannen, Festival Organiser, said: “Reading is a fantastic combination of amazing urban history and wonderful green spaces, wildlife and easy to access countryside. The Reading Walks Festival aims to introduce people to our urban heritage and culture as well as showcase the diversity of the local wildlife and landscapes. You don’t need to be a keen walker to take part.  Our guided walks range in length from an hour’s gentle walk to 40 km along the St James’ Way

The full programme and detailed information about each walk, along with booking instructions, can be found at readingwalksfestival.org All walks must be booked in advance.

ENDS

Notes to Editors

Reading Walks Festival is organised by REDA (Reading’s Economy and Destination Agency). Each walk is planned and led by a local volunteer who will be sharing their expertise and enthusiasm for Reading (a few of the walks are led by professional guides). Reading Walks Festival is supported by whatsonreading.com, Reading Buses and GWR.

Reading

https://www.visit-reading.com/

The town itself is where medieval meets modern with both a rich history and great contemporary offering as the UK's largest town. Originally known for the three B's - beer, biscuits and bulbs - in the industrial revolution, Reading has transformed into a vibrant, metropolitan town on the River Thames and Kennet & Avon Canal, is home to the renowned Reading Festival and has a growing arts and culture community boasting some of the best entertainment in the country. The town's rich and diverse communities are represented by its global food and drink scene with quirky independents alongside big names. There's also a fantastic selection of independent hotels plus very convenient transport connections.

Images

Please credit the accompanying images to REDA. Additional high res images are available on request.

Press Trips

Reading is welcoming journalists to the town for press familiarisation trips. Please contact Rowena Moore for a proposed itinerary or more information.

Contacts

Alex Brannen, REDA, on 07860 779166.

Rowena Moore, PR Consultant, Visit South East England rowenajmoore@gmail.com