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Somer Valley Walking Festival returns this year with expanded programme

a photo of a group of walkers standing next to a stream and trees. The leaders is pointing at something

Discovery, connection and outdoor adventure are the themes of this year’s Somer Valley Walking Festival, on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September. 

The festival, which is organised by Bath & North East Somerset Council’s Somer Valley Rediscovered project in partnership with Somer Valley Ramblers, is designed to encourage people to make the most of the area’s rich heritage, vibrant wildlife and unique landscapes while enjoying the benefits of being out in the fresh air.

The programme offers something for everyone, with walks for all abilities - from a gentle stroll around the Timsbury Valley to a more strenuous hike through the Cam Valley and a Wellbeing Buggy Walk for parents, families and caregivers. 

Councillor Sarah Warren, Deputy Council Leader (statutory) and Cabinet Member for Sustainable Bath and North East Somerset said: “The Somer Valley Festival is always a popular event. I would encourage people to join one or more of the walks and take the opportunity to explore the area. Most of the events are family friendly and free and many are led by local experts who are keen to share their local knowledge.” 

The popular bat walk, led by Steve England, starts at 7.30pm on Saturday evening. Join the walk outside St Nicholas’s Church in Radstock and head into Waterside Valley with bat detectors that pick up the echolocations and help to identify the species of bats flying overhead. 

The Super Pirates Family Festival at Timsbury Conygre Hall will offer entertainment for youngers, with a disco, circus activities, crafts and a giant inflatable ring from 3pm to 5pm on Sunday.

As well as the walks there are several sessions which aim to encourage people to try new things. On Saturday you can try out Nordic Walking in Midsomer Norton Town Park 11am to 12.30pm and on Sunday Tai Chi 11am to 12pm, Nordic Walking in Timsbury 11.30pm to 12.30pm and Seated Dance 12.45pm to 1.15pm. 

Those who prefer to explore at their own pace can follow one of the Westfield Heritage Trails or an immersive Somer Valley Audio Trail through Haydon Batch, Waterside Valley, Wellow Brook Walk or Midsomer Norton Town Park.

The Somer Valley Walking Festival runs from 12 to 14 September. The full programme of events can be found on the website.

 

ENDS 

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