Pace yourself for Rotherham Walking Festival

Now in its eleventh year, the festival, which has welcomed people from across the world over the past decade, starts on Saturday May 8 with the Six Churches Walk and concludes on Sunday May 16 with the Rotherham Rotary Roundwalk.

In between those dates there are 24 other walks at each corner of the borough for all ages and abilities, the vast majority of which are free.

Organised by the Council alongside a host of partners, the Walking Festival is a great way to welcome the summer and get to know some new areas of Rotherham.

All the walks will be lead by experienced, first-aid trained, leaders, who will also be pointing out natural features and points of interest along the way.

This year new walks include a ramble across the Trans Pennine Trail, Bosom Buddies Rush to Walk and a trip around RSPB Old Moor.

The ancient woodland of Anston Stones Gorge, a women-only walk from Wentworth to Scholes and the Chesterfield Canal Trust sponsored walk are among the old favourites.

Events and Promotions Officer, Dawn Campbell, said: "People love the Walking Festival and the numbers who take part each year prove it.

"It's a great way to enjoy some fantastic walks in the company of friendly and knowledgeable people. You'll discover new parts of the town, uncover hidden secrets, make new friends and see the best of what Rotherham has to offer.

"Sensible footwear and a couple of bottles of water are recommended. Sunscreen is a good idea too if it's hot.

"Join us for as many walks as you can. The more the merrier."

For your free brochure, please contact Rotherham Visitor Centre on 01709 835904.