A popular walking festival that takes walkers on a journey around the Chilterns AONB will return next month.

The Chilterns Walking Festival will run from May 22 to June 6, with more than 80 guided walks on offer, to help people get out and about after months of lockdown.

Organised by the Chilterns Conservation Board, the walks will help people explore the landscape, villages, nature and heritage of the Chilterns.

A spokesman said: “The activities and events are designed to appeal to different age groups, interests and levels of fitness.

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“Whether you are interested in sampling local drinks and produce, finding out about the history of the Chilterns heritage, or trying out a new activity or experience with your family, there is something for everyone at the Chilterns Walking Festival.”

The new programme includes family-friendly walks, health and wellbeing events, things to learn and do such as mastering tree identification or practicing map and compass navigation, and walks to explore and discover the Chilterns, including a George Orwell and Charles Dickens literary tour, and a costumed Tudor walk.

Chilterns Conservation Board’s people and society officer, Annette Venters, said: “After months of lockdown we are delighted to be offering such a full programme of events.

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“It will be a chance to explore and enjoy the beautiful landscape of the Chilterns in small groups, led by experienced guides”.

More details of all guided walks, events and activities, most of which are free, can be found at www.visitchilterns.co.uk/walkingfest.

Due to guidance around the pandemic, most events must be pre-booked.