Walking & Outdoor Festivals : Walkers accommodation in Bunkhouses and Hostels
View all hostels & bunkhouses
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.
February
13th – 16th February Fort William Mountain Festival
The Fort William Mountain Festival welcomes you to the Outdoor Capital of the UK. This year’s event has a fabulous line-up of guided outdoor events, inspiring speakers and engaging films. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Fort William and here is Fort William’s Mountain Festival’s own website.
March
8th – 16th March Crickhowell Walking Festival
This year’s programme has 83 guided walks at all levels of length and challenge, plus the TM5 Challenge on Table Mountain, which is now an established favourite. There are 16 new walks, 9 linear walks, variations on familiar themes and some old favourites too, plus a fine programme of evening events so there’s something to suit you, whatever your preference . Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Crickhowell and here is Crickhowell Walking Festival’s own website.
April
22nd – 27th 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.
26th April – 5th May Mole Valley Ramblers Spring Walks Festival, Surrey
Awaiting information. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation in and around Mole Valley and here is Mole Valley Festival’s own website.
26th April – 5th May Haltwhistle Walking Festival, Northumberland.
A variety of walks for all fitness levels and interests – there’s something for everyone! This year join th3 3-day trek celebrating the Pennine Way’s 60th Anniversary. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Haltwhistle and here is Haltwhistle Walking Festival’s own website.
26th April – 5th May Ulverston WalkFest
2025 is the 25th Anniversary of this great festival, which goes from strength to strength. There will be the usual wide range of walks to cover all tastes. 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.
29th April – 5th 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.
2nd – 5th May Talgarth Walking Festival, Brecon Beacons
The much-loved Annual Talgarth Walking Festival enters its eleventh year, promising another unforgettable celebration of walking, nature and community. 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.
3rd – 11th May Ironbridge Gorge Walking Festival, Shropshire
This year choose from a fantastic range of around 60 walks from 2 to 20 miles in and around the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Ironbridge Gorge in Shropshire. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Ironbridge and here is Ironbridge Gorge Walking Festival’s own website.
5th May Bingley Celebration of Walking, Yorks
After running a walking festival for 7 years, this year there will be a Celebration of Walking day. There will be a selection of five different walks on the day for all abilities. 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 Celebrations of Walking’s own website.
9th – 11th May Whitchurch Walking Festival, Shropshire.
Awaiting information. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Whitchurch and here is Whitchurch Walking Festival’s own website.
9th – 12th May Crieff & Strathearn Drovers Tryst Walking Festival, Perthshire.
This festival is built around a programme of guided walks in the stunning scenery and spring colours of Strathearn & surrounding areas of Perthshire. The walks vary in difficulty but all are enriched by wildlife, plants, trees, history and the company of like-minded people. 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.
9th – 15th May Newton Stewart WalkFest, Galloway Hills
Galloway is a wonderfully unspoilt landscape with a huge 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.
10th – 18th May Coleford Area Walking Festival, Glos.
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.
10th – 18th 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. Accommodation can be found at The Bunker Portland and Milton Abbey School and here is Dorchester Walking Festival’s own website.
10th – 18th May Isle of Wight Spring Walking Festival
This multi-award winning walking festival will take place on the Island during Spring and Autumn 2025. You may have visited the Isle of Wight before, but have you ever truly stepped off the beaten track and explored on foot? Now is your chance to get to know this little slice of paradise. Accommodation can be found at Cowes Basecamp and here is Isle of Wight Spring Walking Festival’s own website.
Awaiting dates 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.
Not running in 2025 Suffolk Walking Festival
The Suffolk Walking Festival is taking a break in 2025. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation around Suffolk and here is Suffolk Walking Festival’s own website.
15th – 18th May Bishop’s Castle Walking Festival, Shropshire
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.
16th – 18th 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.
16th – 18th May Trefriw Walking Festival, Conwy.
Snowdonia’s premier walking festival 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 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.
16th – 18th May Winchcombe Cotswolds Walking Festival
A Spring walking festival situated in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There’s a variety of walks and 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.
16th – 18th May Prestatyn & Clwydian Range Walking Festival
There’s lots on offer this year for all ages and abilities. Be sure to 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.
17th May – 23rd 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.
17th May – 1st June 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.
24th – 1st 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.
Awaiting dates 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
Awaiting dates 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.
7th – 8th June The Quantock Hills Walking Festival, Somerset.
This year’s walking festival will follow a different format from previous years. The event is being organised by the National Trust at Coleridge Cottage and walks will be led by a new team of volunteer walk leaders. As usual places will be limited so booking is essential. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near the Quantock Hills. Check out Quantock Walking Festival’s own website for more details.
7th – 15th 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.
13th – 15th June Corsham Walking Festival
Enjoy a variety of interesting and themed walk for all levels. Bookings open 1st April. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Corsham and here is Corsham Walking Festival’s own website.
13th – 23rd 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.
20th – 22nd 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.
25th – 29th June Evesham Walking Festival
There are around 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.
28th June – 6th July 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 the historic market town and the wonderful variety of Wharfedale countryside. 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 the 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.
July
August
22nd – 25th August Kendal Walking Festival, Cumbria.
Surrounded by beautiful scenery Kendal Walking Festival 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.
29th August – 5th Sept Dartmoor Walking Festival
Enjoy a week of fantastic events that give you the opportunity to explore hidden gems, try some new activities and discover the real Dartmoor. From guided walks to films, from climbing sessions to navigation workshops, from the festival letterbox trail to live music, there really is something for everyone. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation in and around Dartmoor and here is Dartmoor Walking Festival’s own website.
Awaiting dates 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
6th 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.
6th – 7th 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.
Awaiting dates 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.
5th – 14th Sept Stonehouse (Gloucestershire) Walking Festival
The Festival offers free, guided group walks, including: level field and woodland footpaths, gently rolling fields, scenic views, canal, river and rail trails, walks for restricted mobility, family fun walk, history walk, tree walks, picnics, pub and cafe stops. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation near Stonehouse and here is Stonehouse walking Festival’s own website.
6th – 14th Sept Gower Walking Festival, West Glams.
The Gower Walking Festival returns in 2025, from Saturday 6th to Sunday 14th September, with nine days of over 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.
6th – 20th Sept Bathscape Walking Festival
Awaiting information. Accommodation can be found at Bath YMCA and here is Bathscape Walking Festival’s own website.
8th – 14th 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.
15th – 21st 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. Accommodation can be found on our map of accommodation in Dorset and here is Dorset WALX Festival’s own website.
13th – 22nd Sept Barmouth Walking Festival, Gwynedd
The Barmouth Walking Festival is one of the longest established and largest UK 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.
Awaiting dates 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.
14th – 21st 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.
19th – 28th 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.
Awaiting dates 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.
26th – 28th 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.
26th – 28th 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.
26th – 28th 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
4th – 12th October Isle of Wight Autumn 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.
