The 9th WALX festival in Dorset was a relaxed and friendly event with a range of new routes, expertly planned and led by the WALX Dorset group with help from other Instructors from around the UK

This teamwork and camaraderie helps us to welcome new walkers every year who may not be lucky enough to have a WALX group near them.  Recently trained Instructors like Ken Hames OBE honed their skills and added unique elements to the iconic walks including Old Harry Rocks, the Cerne Abbas Giant and a walk to Durdle Door with a scenic bus ride back.

Feedback was positive with walkers liking the new format of smaller groups and less trodden routes. The festival HUB was open on Friday afternoon and Saturday to welcome weary walkers for a spot of retail therapy and some workshops which included Understanding Kombucha and Foraging. Located by the steam railway and close to both Swanage and Corfe Castle, the HUB was ideally placed with great transport links.

The weather was amazing for our 9th year in a row which was a relief after a previous week of downpours!

The 16 mile challenge was was won by Alan Lidster in under 4 hours which was no mean feat on the new route which was ‘undulating’ to put it politely!

Bolstered by marshalled stations with fresh fruit and energising treats, the walkers enjoyed a route full of interest with coastal paths, stunning valleys and quaint villages galore. Whilst Alan forged ahead, some stayed with the main pack and others were supported by the sweeper Ann Reed who makes sure that every year, every participant completes the walk.

As they approached the finish at the WALX festival Hub they were rewarded with a medal, T shirt and a round of applause from other walkers who were enjoying the sunshine on the HUB terrace as the steam trains chugged past!

Meanwhile, other walkers were climbing up to golden cap, the highest point on the Dorset coast or exploring the geology of the Jurassic Coast with local experts. Other highlights included a walk which ended at a local Cider farm with a chance to sample their range of traditional delights and walks at the Arne RSPB reserve where one group saw the white tailed Eagle and another encountered the wild pigs which help maintain the unique habitat.

The Paella on the beach walk is an annual favourite where walkers are rewarded with a lovely meal at a beach shack cafe as they watch the sun drop down over Studland bay.  Swanage beach was the location of both beach workout walks and a relaxing Tai Chi session with June Holden one of the Instructors from WALX Derwent and Dales.

Being Dorset there were a few cream teas on the menu including a stop at Careys secret garden a walled garden which is being restored by volunteers and is set in woodland, giving it a magical timeless feel.

The selection of walks was carefully chosen to suit all abilities and the knowledgeable local leaders added to the experience with their passion for the history, produce and even literature of the area.

The chance for groups from all over the UK to get together makes the event very special and provides Instructors the chance to relax and be part of the fun too.

The Saturday evening supper event with legendary band the Transitions playing for the 5th time and filling the floor as ever. Even the tiredest of legs could not resist their mix of well known tunes from all genres and lively beat. A team of hosts served the suppers and managed the bar to make the evening really special too. Festival dates for 2025 are 19th – 21st Sept folks so keep the date and watch out for more information and check out these pictures to give you a taste of what’s on offer!