HASLEMERE hosts its third Walking Festival this weekend offering scenic routes for all ages and abilities.

A ‘Walkers are Welcome’ town, it is backing the nationwide initiative, also supported by Haslemere Town Council, to encourage more people to enjoy the surrounding countryside.

Walks on offer include returning favourites, such as the ever-popular bat walk and Nordic walking, to new additions.

Experienced forest leaders will head the wild learning walk, there will be a night scavenger hike on Marley Common with knowledgeable scout leaders, and an historic Sir Robert Hunter Trail.

Long-distance rambles will explore the undulating terrain of Black Down, Hindhead Common and the Devil’s Punchbowl that would have been familiar to the local poet Lord Tennyson, and a circular walk starts and finishes from Haslemere Station.

The Haslemere Visitor Information Centre}s Antoinette Francis said: “For the third time we have, once again, been given the chance to offer both children and adults the opportunity to explore and discover this charming market town, its amazing history and beautiful surrounding countryside.

“This year we have a truly exciting programme of walks, many of which are new to the festival, that will appeal to all ages, abilities and interests, so there really is something for everyone to enjoy.”

All walks are free and are led by knowledgeable guides, with some designed for families. Booking is essential and numbers are limited so early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment.

For more information, including details of all the walks, and to download a booking form, visit www.haslemere.com/vic