Walking & Outdoor Festivals : Walkers accommodation in Bunkhouses and Hostels
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Independent Hostels UK is working with walking festivals in England, Scotland and Wales to encourage walking, fresh air and friendship. Read on to find ideal walkers accommodation close to these festivals.
Walking & Outdoor Festivals in England, Scotland and Wales in 2024
All the festivals below have been hand-picked as there are Independent Hostels and Bunkhouses in the area. These self catering hostels and bunkhouses offer great value accommodation for those who want to stay for a day or more and make the most of these wonderful walking events.
Ulverston Walk Fest
February
15th-18th February Fort William Mountain Festival
The Fort William Mountain Festival welcomes you to the Outdoor Capital of the UK. This is the 20th anniversary year. There is a fabulous line-up of guided outdoor events and adventure inspired workshops. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Fort William and here is Fort William’s Mountain Festival’s own website.
March
9th-17th March Crickhowell Walking Festival
The 16th Crickhowel Walking Festival Festival offers 81 walks in all, from 2 to 17 miles. The walks range from valley strolls to demanding all-day routes on the high tops. There are some new challenges mixed with old favourites and fresh special interest walks, along with workshops and evening events. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Crickhowell and here is Crickhowell Walking Festival’s own website.
April
2nd – 7th April Chepstow Walking Festival, Monmouthshire
The festival offers the walker an extensive programme of guided walks in and around Monmouthshire and its borders discovering the hidden and not so hidden gems of this area. The walks will suit most abilities and this year there are a couple of challenging walks for the very fit as well as those that prefer a stroll with a theme. The main objective of the festival is to have fun, enjoy the great outdoors with like-minded people and discover the beautiful diverse landscape and history of this stunning area. Programme out mid February.. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Chepstow and the full programme and how to book online can be found at Chepstow Walking Festival’s own website.
19th – 21st April Kington Spring Walking Festival, Herefordshire
Kington Spring Walking Festival once again offers an ideal opportunity for all walkers to enjoy a programme of spectacular walking with sublime views, welcoming pubs, good food and the great company of fellow walkers. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Kington and here is Kington Walking Festival’s own website.
24th -28th April Mole Valley Ramblers Spring Walks Festival, Surrey
This year’s theme will be woodland walks that incorporate pub or café stops either during or after the walks. These guided walks will be graded as leisurely, moderate or strenuous and will be between 3 and 15 miles in length. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation in and around Mole Valley and here is Mole Valley Festival’s own website.
27th April – 6th May Haltwhistle Walking Festival, Northumberland.
A variety of walks for all fitness levels and interests – there’s something for everyone! Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Haltwhistle and here is Haltwhistle Walking Festival’s own website.
27th April – 6th May Ulverston WalkFest
10 days of fabulous walking in this beautiful area of the the Lake District. There are a choice of walks on each day, something for all levels of fitness. As a trial this year, the team are prepared to try to provide a walk for anybody needing support in any way (for instance, someone using a wheelchair or with reduced sight). An option may be to arrange a personal walk with one of our leaders to suit your situation. If you are interested please get in touch. Please note all walks must be pre-booked. Numbers are limited and they fill up quickly. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Ulverston and here is Ulverston Walkfest’s own website.
30th April – 6th May Ride2stride Music and Walking Festival on the Settle to Carlisle Line, North Yorkshire/Cumbria.
The Yorkshire Dales Ride2Stride is a week-long festival of walks talks and music along the scenic Settle to Carlisle railway line. All the free guided walks start from a station and finish at a station along the Settle to Carlisle line. There will be walks to suit all levels of walkers. Come along, meet old friends and make new ones. Sorry only assistance dogs allowed. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near the Settle to Carlisle line and here is Ride2stride Music and Walking Festival’s own website.
May
1st-31st May Alton Walking Festival, Hampshire
Alton Walking Festival is ideal for enthusiastic walkers, relaxed wanderers, and curious explorers of all ages. The festival is the ideal opportunity for the local community and visitors from further afield to meet likeminded people, explore the Town and its surrounding villages and discover the superb Hampshire countryside with its abundance of wildlife and rich cultural heritage. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Alton and here is Alton Walking Festival’s own website.
3rd-6th May Talgarth Walking Festival, Brecon Beacons
Awaiting information. Go to the festival’s own website for the latest updates. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Talgarth and here is Talgarth Walking Festival’s own website.
4th-12th May Ironbridge Gorge Walking Festival, Shropshire
This walking festival is a great opportunity to explore the beautiful countryside of the Ironbridge Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With 60 free guided walks on offer, you’ll find just the right walk for you! Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Ironbridge and here is Ironbridge Gorge Walking Festival’s own website.
6th May Bingley Walking Festival, Yorks
Awaiting information. Go to the festival’s own website for the latest updates. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Bingley and here is Bingley Walking Festival’s own website.
1oth – 12th May Whitchurch Walking Festival, Shropshire.
Three days of varied walks and other activities have been organised in and around Whitchurch, a Walkers are Welcome town. All walks must be booked in advance before 11th May. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Whitchurch and here is Whitchurch Walking Festival’s own website.
1oth – 13th May Crieff & Strathearn Drovers Tryst Walking Festival, Perthshire.
There should be 5 x walks per day offering a choice of levels to suit everyone, including families. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Crieff and Strathearn and here is Crieff and Strathearn Drovers Tryst Walking Festival’s own website.
10th-16th May Newton Stewart WalkFest, Galloway Hills
Often described as Scotland’s best kept secret, Galloway is a wonderfully unspoilt landscape with an endless variety of routes for walkers to enjoy. Walkfest offers almost 30 routes over 7 days, with transport and guides included, as well as a programme of evening social events. Accommodation can be found at Barholm Accommodation and here is Newton Stewart WalkFest’s own website.
11th-19th May Coleford Area Walking Festival, Glos.
Returning with the popular 9 day festival in 2024 this event will showcase walks in and around Coleford in the beautiful Forest of Dean area of Gloucestershire. Coleford’s walking festival features around 22-23 walks to suit an audience of all ages and physical abilities. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Coleford and here is Coleford Area Walking Festival’s own website.
11th-19th May Dorchester Walking Festival, Dorset
A great mix of long and short walks for all abilities and interests. Whether you are a keen hiker or prefer a gentle stroll, the programme will include something for everyone – all ages and abilities. Explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of Dorchester and the Jurassic Coast. Over 50 free guided and self-guided walks to choose from, including: The Trail of Thomas Hardy, Iron Age Forts, Walking in the Footsteps of the Romans & Family Scavenger Hunts. Accommodation can be found at The Bunker Portland and here is Dorchester Walking Festival’s own website.
11th-19th May Isle of Wight Spring Walking Festival
This multi-award winning walking festival will take place on the Island during Spring and Autumn 2024, celebrating its 25th anniversary. You may have visited the Isle of Wight many times before, but have you ever truly stepped off the beaten track and explored on foot? The Island celebrates the annual Walking Festival this year, where locals once again invite you to get to know their little slice of paradise. Accommodation can be found at Cowes Basecamp and here is Isle of Wight Spring Walking Festival’s own website.
11th-19th May Chesterfield Area Walking Festival
Explore the highlights of the Chesterfield area on one of our many guided walks and with a vast range available there is something for everyone. Whether you prefer a gentle stroll through local parkland or fancy a more challenging 10-mile ramble along old railway track beds, the Chesterfield Walking Festival provides the perfect opportunity to get out and about. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Chesterfield and here is Chesterfield Area Walking Festival’s own website.
11th-26th May Suffolk Walking Festival
Created in 2007 the festival is one of the largest and longest running walking festivals in the country.The festival celebrates Suffolk’s natural landscapes and built heritage with guided walks in every corner of the county. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation around Suffolk and here is Suffolk Walking Festival’s own website.
11th-27th May Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival
The Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival takes place in and around the Lincolnshire Wolds, an Area of Outstanding Beauty. During the Outdoor Festival you can come and discover some of the many activities that help make the Wolds such a wonderful place to be for free or at a reduced cost; from cycling, fishing, golf, water sports and high ropes to navigation, dancing, crafting, gliding and much, much more!! Accommodation can be found at The Viking Centre and here is Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival’s own website.
16th-19th May Bishop’s Castle Walking Festival, Shropshire
This is the 24th year of this walking festival in the Welsh Marches Tucked in on the lea of Offa’s Dyke, the area has a history of borders, raids, journeys and travellers, and has landscape features to illustrate it all. Join local walk leaders who have planned favourite routes and visits to special places to create a programme of walks and fringe events. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Bishop’s Castle and here is Bishop’s Castle Walking Festival’s own website.
17th-19th May Keswick Mountain Festival
Like previous years it will be a wonderfully immersive experience, with an emphasis on outdoor sports, activities, live music, inspirational speakers, and an incredible array of outdoor brands. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Keswick and here is Keswick Mountain Festival’s ‘s own website.
17th-19th May Trefriw Walking Festival, Conwy.
Trefriw lies on the edge of the beautiful Snowdonia National Park, and its Walking Festival is Snowdonia’s most popular walking event. Each year there are over 20 walks, spread over the long weekend and offering plenty of variety, with something for everyone. A not-for-profit event, it is run entirely by volunteers. The comprehensive website will tell you all you need to know. A warm welcome and good company are guaranteed. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Trefriw and here is Trefriw’s own website.
17th-19th May Winchcombe Cotswolds Walking Festival
A Spring walking festival situated in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There’s a variety of 21 walks and 2 events. The walks are led by knowledgeable local leaders who will give you an insight into the history, flora and farming of the area. A great opportunity to learn about the countryside and what is going on. Accommodation can be found at Croft Farm Waterpark and here is Winchcombe Cotswolds Walking Festival’s own website.
18th-24th May Ballater Walking Festival
6 days of a choice of walks (graded strong, medium or easy) and evening entertainment. The perfect opportunity to explore the stunning scenery surrounding Ballater. Accommodation can be found at Ballater Hostel and here is Ballater Walking Festival’s own website.
24th-26th May Prestatyn & Clwydian Range Walking Festival
There’s lots on offer this year for all ages and abilities so please do take a look and ensure you book early to avoid disappointment. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Prestatyn and here is Prestatyn & Clwydian Range Walking Festival’s own website.
25th-27th May Kendal Walking Festival, Cumbria.
Kendal is set to host its 7th walking festival. Surrounded by beautiful scenery it offers a wide variety of walking experiences. Kendal makes a superb base for those who enjoy walking and the festival has something for everyone regardless of his or her walking abilities. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Kendal and here is Kendal Walking Festival’s own website.
25th May-2nd June Malvern Walking Festival
9 days of themed and guided walks on and around the Malvern Hills in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. With around 70 walks available across the 9 days, Malvern Walking Festival has something for everyone. Each walk is graded from gentle to strenuous so no one need let themselves in for more (or less) than they can handle. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Malvern and here is Malvern Walking Festival’s own website.
31st May-9th June North Wessex Downs Walking Festival
Awaiting information. For latest updates go to the festival’s own website. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation in and near the North Wessex Downs and here is North Wessex Downs Walking Festival’s own website.
June
1st-2nd June Newtown Outdoor Festival
A weekend of fun and activity. Walk, canoe, cycle, run, picnic, fish, take pictures, garden, sing, dance, concerts, archery, food trucks. The daytime festival events will be centred on the hub at Oriel Davies Gallery and will start from there. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Newtown and here is Newtown Outdoor Festival’s own website.
1st-9th June Wrexham Walking Festival
9 days of wonderful walks in beautiful NE Wales. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Wrexham and here is Wrexham Walking Festival’s own website.
7th-9th June Corsham Walking Festival
Awaiting details. Tickets will go on sale from April 2024. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Corsham and here is Corsham Walking Festival’s own website.
14th -22nd June The Annual South Downs Way Walk , East Sussex/Hampshire.
This is an annual, nine day walk along the full 100 mile length of the South Downs Way, one of England’s most popular national trails . For over 42 consecutive years it has been enjoyed by hundreds of people from all over the world. Although there are experienced team members to walk with you, this is not a guided walk, and everyone is free to walk at their own pace each day. However, you can rest assured that there will always be knowledgeable people nearby to help you with directions, first aid or just a friendly smile. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation in the South Downs and here is The Annual South Downs Way Walk’s own website.
14th – 24th June Moray Walking and Outdoor Festival, Morayshire
From the foothills of the Cairngorms to Moray’s award-winning coastline you can enjoy long summer days discovering Moray’s natural, historical and cultural landscape. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Moray and here is Moray Walking and Outdoor Festival’s own website.
21st-23rd June Exmoor Running and Walking Festival
The Exmoor running and walking festival is a celebration of travelling on foot within the stunning Exmoor National Park. Whether you are a runner or a walker there’s something to challenge you as the festival is based in the remotest part of the National Park. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Exmoor and here is Exmoor Running and Walking Festival’s own website.
22nd-30th June Otley Walking Festival, West Yorkshire
With around 40 walks and events over the nine days of Otley Walking Festival, there really is something for everyone. Catering for all abilities – shorter town-based walks, meadows and field paths, strenuous moorland hikes, entertaining evening events, including old favourites and new themed walks. Otley Walking Festival showcases our historic market town and the wonderful variety of Wharfedale countryside we are so fortunate to have on our doorstep. A warm welcome from walk leaders, meeting friendly folk, enjoying the great outdoors – what’s not to like! You can be sure of a warm welcome from our walk leaders and the chance to meet friendly folk. Some walks will require booking – check the programme carefully as turning up on spec will not be possible for all walks. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Otley and here is Otley Walking Festival’s own website.
26th-30th June Evesham Walking Festival
This year the Evesham Walking Festival is bigger and better than ever. There are 23 delightful walks through some of the most beautiful parts of the region for you to choose from. Places on each walk are limited, so early booking is recommended. Accommodation can be found at Croft Farm Waterpark and here is Evesham Walking Festival’s own website.
Awaiting dates The Quantock Hills Walking Festival, Somerset.
Awaiting information. For latest updates go to the festival’s own website. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near the Quantock Hills. Check out Quantock Walking Festival’s own website for more details.
July
August
31st August Corwen Walking Festival, Denbighshire
Awaiting information. For latest updates go to the festival’s own website. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Corwen and here is Corwen Walking Festival’s own website.
September
7th Sept Edinburgh Moonwalk
Join in the fun of the MoonWalk Scotland LIVE* night charity walk and experience Edinburgh like never before! Edinburgh turns pink to honour all MoonWalkers. Half Marathon 13.1 or Full Marathon 26.2 miles… the choice is yours! Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation in Edinburgh and here is Dartmoor Walking Festival’s own website.
7th – 15th Sept Dartmoor Walking Festival, Devon
Awaiting information. Go to the festival’s own website for the latest updates. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation in Dartmoor National Park and here is Dartmoor Walking Festival’s own website.
6th-8th Sept Bradford on Avon Walking Festival
A variety of walks of different lengths on each day of this festival. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Bradford on Avon and here is Bradford on Avon Festival’s own website.
6th-15th Sept Sheffield Walking Festival
The festival celebrates all sides of Sheffield with routes of varying lengths and themes. You can explore the city’s varied heritage and fascinating suburbs on urban strolls or venture out to Sheffield’s dramatic borders that overlap with the stunning Peak District National Park for something more challenging. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Sheffield and here is Sheffield Walking Festival’s own website.
6th-15th Sept Stonehouse (Gloucestershire) Walking Festival
The Festival includes a wide variety of guided walks for all ages and abilities – and it’s free! The walks on offer range from short walks and strolls, to day-long hikes for fitter walkers. There will even be a boat trip suitable for wheelchair users and pushchairs. In addition there will be walks with added special interests including family fun, history, canal and trees. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Stonehouse and here is Stonehouse walking Festival’s own website.
7th-15th Sept Dartmoor Walking Festival
Awaiting information. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation in and around Dartmoor and here is Dartmoor Walking Festival’s own website.
7th-15th Sept Gower Walking Festival, West Glams.
The Gower Walking Festival returns in 2024, from Saturday 7th to Sunday 15th September, with nine days of thirty glorious walks! The programme will be packed with familiar and new walks for all interests and abilities. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation on and around the Gower Peninsular and here is Gower Walking Festival’s own website.
7th-22nd Sept Bathscape Walking Festival
Awaiting information. Accommodation can be found at Bath YMCA and here is Bathscape Walking Festival’s own website.
9th-15th Sept Wellington Walking Festival, Shropshire
This year’s festival will comprise the usual mix of old favourites and new events. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Wellington and here is Wellington Walking Festival’s own website.
9th-15th Sept Dorset WALX Festival 2024
Join WALX Dorset for a week of walking in Dorset – come for a day, a few days, the whole week or just the weekend. A low cost pass will secure you booking rights to 3 walks a day. Walks include the Purbeck favourites plus iconic Dorset walks including:- Cerne Abbas Giant, Golden Cap, Colmers Hill and more. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation in Dorset and here is Dorset WALX Festival’s own website.
14th-23rd Sept Barmouth Walking Festival, Gwynedd
The Barmouth Walking Festival is one of the longest established and largest U.K. walking events.The sea and the mountains coupled with the historic town of Barmouth provide the perfect backdrop for this event which covers a full spectrum of walks. There will be challenging routes for the discerning fit walkers, more moderate walks with less ascents that still provide a wonderful opportunity to experience the scenic mountains and special interest walks. There will also be a full evening programme. The online booking window will be open from 1 July to 10 September. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Barmouth and here is Barmouth Walking Festival’s own website.
14th-29th Sept Mid-Devon Walking Festival
The Mid Devon Walking Festival intends to be an unforgettable celebration of nature, heritage, community, and the fun of walking. This event is set to captivate adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and families alike, providing an opportunity to uncover the beauty of Mid Devon. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation in Devon and here is Mid-Devon Walking Festival’s own website.
19th-22nd Sept Kington Autumn Walking Festival
Kington Autumn Walking Festival once again offers an ideal opportunity for all walkers to enjoy a programme of spectacular walking with sublime views, welcoming pubs, good food and the great company of fellow walkers. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Kington and here is Kington Walking Festival’s own website.
20th-29th Sept Richmond Walking and Book Festival, North Yorkshire
Boots and books, walks and words… Come and join this unique festival in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales plus a programme of town walks and book events in the original Richmond in Yorkshire. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Richmond and here is Richmond Walking and Book Festival’s own website.
21st-29th Sept Somerset & Exmoor Coast Festival
The Somerset and Exmoor Coast Festival is a celebration of our unique and diverse coastline bringing together events that offer everything from running, walking and outdoor activities to art, music, and performance alongside the food, flavours and hospitality that make this coast of surprises so welcoming. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation in Somerset & Exmoor and here is Somerset & Exmoor Coast Festival’s own website.
27th – 29th Sept Llandysul and Pont-Tyweli Walking Weekend
Awaiting information. Go to the festival’s own website for the latest updates. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near LLandysul here is Llandysul and Pont-Tyweli Walking Weekend’s own website.
27th – 29th Sept Ross on Wye Walking Festival, Herefordshire
Ross-on-Wye Walking Festival offers a wonderful opportunity to explore some of the incredible countryside of South Herefordshire, offering dramatic gorges, rolling hillsides, spectacular views, meandering rivers, ancient forests and parkland. All walks will be led by experts who will give an informative commentary along the way. It’s a recipe for a great weekend, in a great place, with great people. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Ross on Wye and here is Ross on Wye Walking Festival’s own website.
27th – 29th Sept Moffat Walking Weekend
Discover this sensational and under-explored part of Southwest Scotland in this three-day walking festival. The Moffat Walking Weekend offers everything from long-distance trails and free and easy ambles, to family-friendly adventures and treks around town. Places are limited so book early to avoid disappointment! Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Moffat and here is Moffat Walking Weekend’s own website.
October
5th-13th October Isle of Wight Spring Walking Festival
Once again local and passionate Walk Leaders will share with you their favourite seasonal routes, special viewpoints and hidden gems. There will be lots of walks for every ability – there’s something on offer for everyone. Accommodation can be found at Cowes Basecamp and here is Isle of Wight Spring Walking Festival’s own website.
Awaiting Dates
Awaiting dates. Guildford Walkfest, Surrey
Guildford Walkfest is a series of organised walks designed to encourage people of all ages to get out and enjoy our wonderful town and beautiful countryside in and around Guildford. There is something to suit everyone regardless of age, ability or experience and as every year, all the walks are guided, free, and everybody is welcome to join in. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Guildford and here is Guildford Walkfest’s own website.
Awaiting dates Scottish Borders Walking Festival
The festival offers walks of all sizes and levels through some amazing scenery. Each walk is lead by a passionate leader. There are social events arranged during the festival. Everyone is welcome. Accomodation can be found at Kirk Yetholm Friends of Nature House and here is the Scottish Borders Walking Festival’s own website.
Awaiting dates Autumn Footprints, Derbyshire
Go to the festival’s own website for the latest updates. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation in Derbyshire and here is Autumn Footprints’ own website.
