TICKETS are now available for the annual event which sees Reading residents pound the pavement and soak up the sights of the town.
Reading Walks Festival is coming back in May, bringing over 50 walks and cycle trips, as well as a live talk.
Each of the walks in the programme is led by a local volunteer to bring life to the stories which explore Reading’s heritage and promote walking for pleasure.
After many of the walks were fully-booked at last year’s event, a number of walks have been brought back for this year’s festival.
Among them is a two-day pilgrimage walk along the St James’ Way, a chance to explore the University’s two Reading campuses, and forest bathing at the Museum of English Rural Life.
There will also be a walk following in the footsteps of Jane Austen during the author’s 250th anniversary year, among a number of new walks for this year.
Alex Brannen, Reading Walks Festival organiser, said: “Reading is best explored on foot. The scale, diversity and extraordinary heritage of the town makes it an ideal base for a walks festival and we are delighted to be able to share 53 walks, talks and bike rides as part of the 2025 Reading Walks Festival.
“Our aim is to introduce people to Reading’s urban heritage and culture as well as showcase the diversity of the local wildlife and natural landscapes within and beyond the town.
“All our walks are different–some will be more talking than walking to help you learn more about a subject; some will be social occasions–just walking and chatting–and others will be more about just enjoying the walk for its own sake.
“You don’t need to be a keen walker to take part. The guided walks can be as short as an hour or as long as 2 days for the more serious walker.”
The walks link into the public transport system with information provided on bus routes and train access to start and finish points.
Last year, over 70% of Reading Walks Festival walkers reached the starting point without the need for a car.
The festival is supported by GWR as the Official Transport Partner of the Reading Walks Festival 2025 and many of our walks start at a railway station.
Most walks cost just £3, with some having a higher cost and a few are free.
Last year, many walks booked up quickly so we advise booking early to avoid disappointment.
A printed programme is available from local libraries, Reading Museum, Reading Station and other pick up points in Reading.
Reading Walks Festival takes place between Saturday-Sunday, May 10-18.
Full details and tickets available via: readingwalksfestival.org
