Best foot forward to get ready for walking festival

THE Fifth Staffordshire Moorlands Walking Festival is back for 2026 with more than 60 guided walks.

- By Post & Times reporter

This 11-day celebration of the Peak District gateway offers routes for all ages and abilities and runs from April 24 to May 4.

The free and low-cost walking events provide an ideal opportunity to explore the countryside while promoting physical and mental wellbeing through outdoor activity.

Since launching in 2022, the festival has welcomed over 3,600 attendees across 230 walks and events, working with more than 70 organisations to showcase the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Year on year the festival has grown, highlighting growing interest in accessible outdoor activities.

This year's programme caters to everyone, from families seeking gentle one-mile strolls, to experienced hikers ready for challenging 16-mile routes.