FARNHAM Walking Festival, the annual jamboree of walking in and around Farnham, has released its brochure and list of events for 2020.

Offering the most varied and exciting range of events yet, the 2020 festival sees more than 80 walks, ranging in length from half-mile informational strolls to 15-mile all-day hikes.

Set from May 16 to June 7, it promises walks for all – whatever your age, fitness or walking ability.

Some are led by experts in their field and most are free of charge to join – and here, we feature five particular highlights: 

1) The full Pilgrims’ Way and St Swithun’s Way “Pilgrimage to Winchester”, (34 miles) set over three days. Part one will set off from St Andrew’s Church, Farnham on May 18. Part two picks up the trail at Alton Station on May 20. And the final leg, between Bishop’s Sutton and Winchester, will follow on May 22.

2) Farnham’s first Shakespeare Walks. Farnham Town Council has commissioned the Guildford Shakespeare Company to devise a special walk for Farnham for the first time. Like a theatrical treasure-hunt, on this interactive walking tour (May 16 and 17), you’ll encounter Shakespeare and his characters bringing hidden Farnham to life in the least likely of places.

3) Bishop’s Table Ghost Walk. As the guide leads you through the labyrinth of paths, they will take you deep into the history of the town and who used to live here... but be warned, something is moving in the shadows. Perhaps the ghosts of so many years ago want to tell their own story? This walk is sponsored by the Bishop’s Table Hotel, an 18th-century hotel in heart of our beautiful town. See bishopstable.com

4) For those wishing to take part in a day out with the family, a self-led Family Treasure Trail may be perfect for you.

Families can buy a walking pack for £6.99 from The Museum of Farnham, West Street or the Blue Bear Bookshop on The Borough.

The walk is said to take you on a “picturesque route” – including sightings of the castle, and a chance to solve clues along the way.

5) Or perhaps a trip to a brewery may quench your walking thirst?

The Hogs Back Brewery ‘Totter’, led by Guy Singer, is the perfect opportunity to get out walking with a beer in hand, plus a free tour of the Hogs Back Brewery.

Booking for this walk is essential, and details can be found at bit.ly/FWF2020

Organiser, Guy Singer, said: “Last year too many walks were fully booked and too many people were disappointed they couldn’t join us.

"To help avoid this, we have more than doubled the number of events this year and added some very exciting new routes.

“I look forward to welcoming you to our inspiring festival and sharing my love of our town and the surrounding countryside with even more people.

“The festival is organised by a team of volunteer walk leaders on behalf of Farnham Town Council, and without their support, the event would not exist.”

For more information, see www.farnhamwalkingfestival.org