Countryside walking festival returns for 21st year

The festival includes a diverse range of guided walks

A walking festival which features 40 walks over 11 days is set to open.

The Garstang Walking Festival, taking place from 3 to 11 May, is in its 21st year with walks taking place around Garstang, rural Wyre, the Forest of Bowland and Morecambe Bay.

The festival includes a diverse range of guided walks suitable for all ages and abilities, including dog-friendly walks, heritage rambles and tramper trials.

Kathy Winstanley, assistant director of environment at Wyre Council, said: "We hope everyone who participates has a fantastic time and shares their experiences, helping the festival continue to grow and thrive each year".

Highlights from the festival include:

• The three-day Wyre Way challenge from Abbeystead to Knott End

• Fleetwood's jewel of the bay walk - exploring stories of the town's heritage and people

• The Great Eccleston to St Michael's walk - a circular route along the banks of the River Wyre

• Lapwings and hares tramper trek from Claughton-on-Brock