Bath’s breathtaking landscapes and lush green spaces will once again take center stage at this year’s Bathscape Walking Festival. Now in its eighth year, the event offers over 50 walks and activities designed for families, groups, and solo walkers, running from September 6 through Sunday, September 21. Best of all, most of these events are free to attend.
This year’s festival introduces several exciting new walks, including a unique five-mile tour of Bath’s historic city center conducted entirely in British Sign Language, led by Alison Wherry-Alimo. For those seeking a more sensory experience, there’s an accessible exploration of Henrietta Park, as well as a three-hour immersive walk blending art and photography with local artist Karen Woodfield.
In celebration of Bath’s 80-year twinning anniversary with the Dutch city of Alkmaar, the twinning association is partnering with the National Trust to lead a picturesque four and a half hour walk from the city center to Bathford. Participants will enjoy a picnic break along the route on September 11.
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The festival also honors Bath’s role in the Picturesque movement of the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Dr. Amy Frost will lead two insightful walks on September 6 and 11 exploring how literary figures like Jane Austen and William Beckford were influenced by and contributed to the region’s scenic heritage.
Councillor Sarah Warren, Cabinet Member for Sustainable Bath and North East Somerset, highlighted the festival’s importance: “The Bathscape Walking Festival offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with the landscape surrounding our city. Along with beloved events like bat walks and urban tree tours, this year’s programme includes inspiring reflections on how Bath’s environment has shaped its past and how we can protect it moving forward. With over 50 walks to choose from, most of them free, there truly is something for everyone.”
Event favorites returning this year include bat walks at Kensington Meadows on September 12 and Weston on September 20, as well as the challenging 20-mile Circuit of Bath Walk for Julian House on September 21. A shuttle bus service will be available for participants who prefer not to complete the entire route.
For charity supporters, there’s a 5-mile walk around the Bath Spa campus raising funds for Parkinson’s UK, with tickets priced at £12 per adult. Additionally, participants in the BigBanes100k endurance challenge can use the festival walks to clock extra miles for Mentoring Plus and Off the Record.
To explore the full festival schedule, book your place, or learn about self-guided walks, visit the Bathscape website or contact Bathscape by phone at 01225 477265 or via email at [email protected]. Note that some walks are not suitable for dogs; however, assistance dogs are welcome on all routes.