As many of you may know, our head office is nestled on the outskirts of the quaint rural market town of Market Harborough in South Leicestershire. A traditional market town with an abundance of character, wealth of history and outstanding natural beauty.
September marks the arrival of Harborough Walks annual walking festival taking place from the 14th-21st September across various locations throughout the district. The event is cherished by locals and tourists, celebrating the area and uncovering some of the best walking trails the East Midlands has to offer.
The festival walks are guided by experienced local Blue Badge Tourist Guide James Carpenter and George Keeping, an outdoor writer and footpaths consultant. Their local knowledge and expert backgrounds offer a unique perspective as you uncover the local trails and discover more about the area and the rich local history that dates back to the Roman era.
A highlight of this year’s event is centered around the hot topic of river conservation. Bruce Durham from the Harborough Woodland Group will be leading a special tour focusing on the importance of local river management in rural areas and how small changes can dramatically boost the countryside’s local flora and fauna.
WEDNESDEAY 17TH SEPTEMBER
Morning Walk – Kings Norton, Lt. Stretton, Burton Overy Circular Walk
A walk of two churches: the imposing church at King’s Norton and its charming, but dilapidated, cousin in the hamlet of Little Stretton. Also, we’ll be walking a stretch of the ancient road that once linked the Roman towns of Leicester and Godmanchester, near Huntingdon, and visiting the quintessential Leicestershire village of Burton Overy.
6 miles
Starting time – 9.30 am
Meeting Place & Parking: Outside entrance to St John the Baptist church, Kings Norton
THURSDAY 18TH SEPTEMBER
Afternoon Walk – Wistow, Kilby Circular Walk
This shorter walk takes us to lovely Wistow and along part of the Grand Union Canal. We will also check out some unusual graves in Newton Harcourt church graveyard, discover a long-disused rifle testing range and learn of the weird legends concerning a martyred saint. At the start or finish, Wistow Rural Centre is on hand for refreshments.
4.5 miles
Starting time – 12.30pm
Meeting Place: Wistow Rural Centre
Plan Your Walking Festival Visit:
The Harborough Walking Festival takes place in late summer (14th-21st September), offering ideal weather conditions for outdoor exploration.
To plan your visit, check the festival’s website (https://www.harboroughwalks.org/walking-festival) where you can see all the latest up to date information on all the walks available and book your place online.
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