Step into new walking festival

The inaugural 1066 Walking Festival, which runs from Saturday October 4 to Friday October 10, will see more than 40 town and country walks across Hastings and Rother.

They range from short walks of just over a mile to a 17 mile trek from Pevensey to Battle, and include areas of stunning scenery such as the grounds of Bodiam Castle, Rye Harbour nature reserve and a beach walk from Bexhill to Bulverhythe.

The festival, which is being supported by Rother District Council, also includes specialised walks such as a dog walk, a walk aimed at mums and dads with prams and a Crowhurst bird walk.

Many of the walks are free of charge, or by donation request.

Cllr Jonathan Johnson, district council cabinet member for young people, sport and equalities, said: “The range and variety of walks on offer as part of the festival means there’s something for everyone, regardless of their interests or level of fitness.

“We promote walking within our Active Rother programme as it offers a great way to get fit and healthy while enjoying some of the stunning scenery we’re blessed with in this part of the world.

“I’d urge as many people as possible to support the festival, which will hopefully become an annual fixture in the calendar.”

Details of all walks, including dates, start times, routes and levels of difficulty, are available online at www.visit1066country.com/events/1066-walking-festival