About

The Somer Valley Walking Festival returns from 11 - 13 September 2026, inviting visitors to discover the beautiful countryside, historic villages and rich wildlife of the Somer Valley, just south of Bath and within easy reach of Bristol. Organised by Somer Valley Rediscovered in partnership with local organisations and volunteers, this free three-day festival features a packed programme of guided walks, wellbeing activities and nature experiences suitable for all ages and abilities.

Whether participants are experienced walkers looking for a longer hike or families seeking a gentle countryside stroll, the festival showcases some of the area's most scenic landscapes while highlighting the heritage, wildlife and communities that make the Somer Valley a unique destination in Somerset.

Programme

Friday 11 September

Women's Wild Walk
Time: 10:00am - 1:00pm
A gentle guided walk designed for women to connect with nature and one another. The route explores Haydon Batch with opportunities for mindfulness, conversation and enjoying the surrounding countryside.

A Nature Walk on Haydon Batch - Wildlife Index Programme
Time: 2:00pm
A guided wildlife walk introducing participants to the flora, fauna and habitats of Haydon Batch while contributing to the Wildlife Index Programme and learning more about local conservation work.

Bat Walk - Night Flyers of the Somer Valley
Time: 7:00pm
An evening walk using bat detectors to discover the nocturnal wildlife of the Somer Valley. Local experts will explain the different bat species that inhabit the area and the habitats they rely upon. This is one of the festival's most popular events, so early booking is recommended.

Saturday 12 September

Paulton Walk
Time: 10:30am
A guided walk exploring the village of Paulton and its surrounding countryside, highlighting local heritage, green spaces and scenic walking routes.

Nordic Walking Taster
Time: 11:00am
An introduction to Nordic Walking, where participants can learn the basics of this low-impact exercise using specially designed walking poles. Suitable for beginners wanting to improve fitness while exploring the outdoors.

Sunday 13 September

Walk and Draw
Time: 9:00am - 11:00am
A relaxed guided walk combining nature with creativity. Participants stroll through Waterside Valley and Haydon Batch, stopping to sketch landscapes, plants and wildlife. Basic drawing materials are provided, making this suitable for complete beginners and experienced artists alike.

Morning Stroller Walk - 4 Miles
Time: 10:00am
A leisurely four-mile walk suitable for casual walkers looking to enjoy the Somer Valley at a relaxed pace.

Short Walk - 6 Miles
Time: 10:00am
A moderate guided walk covering six miles through some of the area's countryside, ideal for those wanting a little more of a challenge.

Medium Walk - 7.5 Miles
Time: 10:00am
A longer countryside walk showcasing scenic routes, wildlife habitats and local heritage sites across the Somer Valley.

A Walk in Celebration of the Restoration of our Wildlife Parks
Time: 10:00am
A special guided walk celebrating the restoration of local wildlife sites and green spaces, highlighting conservation projects and the environmental improvements made throughout the Somer Valley.

Long Walk - 13 Miles
Time: 10:00am
The festival's longest guided hike, offering experienced walkers the opportunity to explore a wide variety of landscapes across the Somer Valley over a full day.

Forest Bathing
Time: 11:30am - 1:30pm
A guided wellbeing session encouraging participants to slow down and immerse themselves in nature through mindfulness techniques in the peaceful surroundings of Waterside Valley.

Afternoon Stroller Walk - Nature on Your Doorstep
Time: 1:30pm
A gentle afternoon walk celebrating the accessible green spaces found throughout the Somer Valley, perfect for those wanting a relaxed end to the festival weekend.