The 45th International Waendel Walk is returning to Wellingborough, Northamptonshire, from 8 May to 10 May 2026. The three-day event will once again be centred at the Castle Theatre, offering a variety of walking routes and community activities.
The weekend begins on Friday 8 May with the Friendship Walk. Participants are encouraged to gather from 5pm, with the parade leaving the theatre at 6pm following an opening ceremony. Throughout the weekend, walkers can choose from six different routes ranging from 5km to 42km. New for 2026, the event is introducing an accessible 10km green route, specifically designed for wheelchair users, families with buggies, and those using mobility scooters.
This annual event remains the only fixture in the UK on the International Marching League Walking Association calendar, drawing thousands of participants from approximately 35 countries. Representatives of Wellingborough Town Council, which has organised the walk since 2023, described the festival as a highlight of the local calendar and a celebration of community and international friendship.
The event also serves as a fundraiser for cancer charities, with The Lewis Foundation acting as a key beneficiary. Donations from the walk support the foundation in providing free gift packs to adult cancer patients across 17 hospitals, including those in Northampton and Kettering.
Organisers are supported by the Waendel Walk Working Group and approximately 50 volunteers. For those travelling to take part, camping facilities are available at the Old Grammarians Sports Field for the duration of the event, with tickets currently on sale.
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