The much-loved Newton Stewart Walking Festival made a welcome return, with the reaction of many regulars showing how much it had been missed during the Covid period.
Friends old and new from across the UK, from as far afield as Orkney and Kent, as well a number of overseas visitors gathered for a week of walks exploring the varied landscape of Galloway. 30 walks were offered across the week of the festival, ranging from a fifteen-mile challenge walk crossing the Galloway Hills to a gentle stroll along the Penkiln Burn into Newton Stewart, from the cliffs of the Mull of Galloway to a Pilgrim’s Route to Carsphairn.
Feedback from participants made it clear that they were delighted that WalkFest was back. A new visitor to the area said “Everyone made me feel so welcome – beautiful countryside and very friendly people”, while another added “I think Walkfest offers something for all levels of fitness and interest”. A third said “Thank you all for a great three days exploring the most southernly points” while another participant added “Excellent in every respect – something to look forward to every year, and aim to get fit for.”
The festival’s volunteer organisers would particularly like to thank the support of Wigtownshire Ramblers and Galloway Mountain Rescue Team, as well as other guides and local land owners. The festival was made possible due to the generous support of Kilgallioch Community Fund, Dumfries and Galloway Council, Galloway Glens Landscape Partnership and Wigtown Community Shop, as well as the ongoing support of Stewart R Cunningham Outdoor Centre and The Belted Galloway Visitor Centre.
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