It’s that time of year again – Spring is on the horizon, if not in the air, birds are starting to sing and Crickhowell Walking Festival is getting ready to welcome people from all over the country to sample the Black Mountains and our wonderful countryside. The Festival is now in its 12th year and has built up a loyal following as well as being recognised as one of the leading walking festivals in the UK.
The Festival starts on 9th March – a little later than in previous years – and runs through to the 17th March with up to 12 walks each day and an event each evening. All the walks are guided by local expert guides and range from easy half day walks to longer treks across the tops of the mountains. Whatever your abilities, you’ll be able to find something that suits you and you know you will be safe wherever you are as you’ll be well looked after.
This year the Festival is supporting the charity Combat Stress, which supports ex-servicemen and women with mental health related issues. There is a chance to raise money for this worthwhile cause by getting sponsorship to complete the Llanbedr Horseshoe Challenge – a 15 mile hike on the hills above the Grwynefechan valley. See Walk 63 on Saturday 16th March.
For your evening’s entertainment, the Festival is being joined by Kate Humble on the 9th March, talking about her latest book “Thinking on my Feet”. There is a film night on Sunday 10th March featuring a selection of films from the Sheffield Film Festival and, during the rest of the week talks on subjects as wide ranging as The Drovers, Famous People of Crickhowell, the Cistercian Way and a Walking Festival Quiz.
Once again, the organisers have pulled out all stops to create a memorable week. Just go to www.crickhowellfestival.com to see for yourself. Booking is easy on line.
David Thomas