What to expect from Reading Walks Festival
Almost 50 guided walks take place across nine days in May bringing to life the stories, heritage, wildlife and landscapes of Reading and the surrounding countryside.
The focus of the festival is as much about telling the stories of Reading as walking for its own pleasure, but there will be social walks, walks for exercise as well as many walks to learn something new about Reading. The festival is suitable for all ages and walking ability with walks ranging in length from a one-hour wellbeing stroll to a two-day pilgrimage.
Why not follow in the footsteps of medieval pilgrims, trace the early life of poet Wilfred Owen and the Reading of Jane Austen, appreciate Reading architecture, take a dawn walk to enjoy birdsong, join family active walks, sensory walks or dip into the history of the local brewing industry. There are also walks along the Thames and Kennet, explorations of the parks and gardens, walks around the University’s campuses and walks out into the countryside accessed from local railway stations.
The Reading Walks Festival aims to introduce people to Reading’s urban heritage and culture as well as showcase the diversity of the local wildlife and natural landscapes. All the 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 range in length from an hour’s gentle walk to 40km along the St James’ Way.
Take a look at the full programme for Reading Walks Festival.
When is Reading Walks Festival?
The festival will take place from Saturday 10 to Sunday 18 May 2025.
How to get to Reading Walks Festival
Reading is an excellently connected place to hold a walks festival and is of a scale that makes it easy to get around on foot.
The railway station is in the heart of the town, with easy access on foot to The Thames, the Kennet & Avon Canal, the Abbey Quarter and the rest of the town centre.