The weather forecast is looking pretty good for CHEPSTOW WALKING FESTIVAL, which is fast becoming a sell out event.
With 36 walks of all lengths and grades, CWF25 (Sunday 27th April) is proving to be as popular as ever and some walks have already sold out. Details of the programme can be found HERE and instant booking is possible HERE so now’s the time to make those plans and give the boots a polish!
Outside the Festival, our own monthly walks programme offers a selection of the best local routes chosen by our walk leaders – check the Events Diary for upcoming walks.
Apart from walk 7, pricing for walk tickets has been held at £5, with accompanied under-16s free of charge. Booking is essential for all walks (including free tickets).
Chepstow lies on the border of Wales and England and is an ideal base for walking in Monmouthshire, the Wye Valley and Forest of Dean. With such a diverse landscape there is everything to offer the walker and visitor whether it be a riverside stroll or a challenging walk along a long distance trail.
In April 2012 Chepstow received a feather in its cap by becoming the first Walkers are Welcome town in Monmouthshire. The area was already well established as a destination for walkers but since Chepstow achieved Walkers are Welcome status it has reinforced our ambition to provide the best walking experience for visitors and the local community alike.
If you’re looking for a way to work off the calories, or a backpack-free stroll, festival week offers that too. There are some great guides to walking in and around Chepstow, including the excellent ‘Lower Wye Rambles’.
The organisers are often asked for suggestions for shorter walks which are suitable for all, can be fitted into a busy schedule or are just right for a short burst of gentle exercise. The Chepstow Walk for Health Group get together every week for exactly that type of walk.
There are various grades of walks available.
STRENUOUS: The longest distance with some sustained steeper slopes, faster pace and harder terrain. Requires a high level of fitness and stamina.
ENERGETIC: Longer distances with some steep ascents, descents, rougher terrain and/or obstacles. More stiles or similar challenges. Requires a decent level of fitness.
MODERATE: Short sections of steeper gradient and/or rough terrain with any climb taken at a steady pace. Some stiles. Suitable for most people of average fitness.
EASY: Suitable for all levels of fitness including those who do not have a specific mobility or health limitation with respect to walking in open countryside. Gentle pace with few if any stiles.
All walks are assessed for suitability for dog walking, and some walks are specifically designed with well-behaved dogs in mind. Please check walk descriptions for the ‘dog friendly’ badge and do not bring your dog unless this is indicated.
During the walk dogs must be on a lead and under close control – the walk leader will usually indicate any opportunities for off-lead walking. Owners are responsible for checking that the length and grade of the walk and weather conditions on the day are suitable for their canine companion.
The CHEPSTOW WALKING FESTIVAL has so much to offer on the walking front but is also very much a social occasion, with plenty of events going on in and around the town. For more details, and to get a full list off all the walks go HERE.
