A WALKING festival is making a return to the New Forest later this month.

The New Forest National Park Authority’s 12th annual Walking Festival will run for two weeks from October 19 until November 3.

Forest experts, including National Park rangers and nature reserve wardens from the New Forest National Park Authority, Forestry England, and RSPB will lead guided sessions, many of which are free to join.

Dusk walks and wildlife adventures are also lined up, alongside events that showcase the area’s heritage, culture, and natural showstoppers.

There will be an introduction to Nordic Walking, a series of ever-popular fungi educational walks, a chance to learn about commoning, and an opportunity to join routes with the Rambler’s New Forest group.

Family-friendly and dog-friendly events will also take place throughout the fortnight.

The New Forest NPA’s access and volunteering officer, Adam Vasey, said: "The Walking Festival is a fantastic way to get out into the Forest and see what it has to offer.

"There are lots of people working hard behind the scenes to keep the forest special, and the festival is a great way to meet them and discover more about the National Park.

"You can explore an area you’ve never visited, spot rare fungi on a wildlife walk, or take a stroll out with a local ranger to learn about their role in caring for the New Forest."