The High Weald Walking Festival will return to Royal Tunbridge Wells and locations across the High Weald National Landscape from Saturday 12 to Sunday 20 September 2026. This nine-day event offers residents a chance to explore the local countryside through dozens of free, guided walks led by experienced volunteer walk leaders.
Organisers have planned over 40 free guided walks, ranging from short strolls to longer hikes through ancient woodlands and historic farmsteads. The festival is a collaboration between the High Weald National Landscape Partnership and four local Ramblers groups: High Weald Walkers, Rother Ramblers, Battle Ramblers and Mid Sussex Ramblers.
The event is designed to help people enjoy and learn about the High Weald’s distinctive medieval landscape and its sunken lanes (holloways), features that have shaped the area around Royal Tunbridge Wells for centuries. Kent County Council formally adopted the High Weald AONB Management Plan 2024–2029, and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council’s planning guidance recognises the National Landscape; both councils’ policies align with the festival’s aims to protect the local environment and improve public access. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council is identified as a key funding and planning partner for the area.
The High Weald was designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1983 and is renowned for its pattern of small fields, ancient woodlands and historic farmsteads. These walks allow people of all abilities to discover hidden parts of the countryside that can be hard to find without a guide.
All guided walks are free, but many are ticketed and popular walks often reach capacity. The festival normally publishes its programme and opens bookings in early August; residents should sign up to the High Weald Walking Festival mailing list or check https://www.highwealdwalks.org for the exact booking date for 2026.
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