Book now to take your pick of 22 guided walks during Corsham’s first weekend Walking Festival on 12–14 June. Building on the success of a one-day event last year, for 2015 an enthusiastic group of volunteers (generously supported by local businesses and community grants) has put together a wide-ranging programme spread over three days. It will run alongside the Pound Arts Summer Festival, and this time includes two evening buffets and entertainment at the Almshouses and the Pound.
The Corsham Walking Festival programme has a strong local flavour and opens up some fascinating opportunities to learn more about local history and heritage in the fresh air, in the company of experts and enthusiasts.
For example, if you enjoyed a Civic Society talk on local geology, you might relish the Corsham Rocks or the Rocks in Box walks, both graded ‘Easy’ (there are three grades: Easy, Moderate and Challenging). Guided by an expert geologist, they will provide an excellent chance to get up close to see rock strata and fossils in situ and admire their transformation into beautiful building materials and historic houses. Other themed walks feature the history of stone working – you might be tempted to head off to the Hidden Quarries of Box or to stroll along the Ridge in search of Corsham’s Quarry Tramways.
There’s lots of variety this year, with all ages and abilities catered for – including free walks for children, a ‘doggie walk’ and a singing walk around Corsham Park complete with accompanying minstrel. There’s a butterfly and wildlife walk taking in Hazelbury Common and Neston churchyard. The Civic Society’s chairman, Michael Rumsey, will be joining the walk entitled God’s Wonderful Railway: Brunel and Box Tunnel to add an historical dimension to one of the many walks featuring wonderful views of Wiltshire’s rolling countryside.
A more detailed description of all events can be found on www.corshamforwalking.org but look out for the colourful festival brochure in a library or arts centre or village hall near you. Places are limited, so early booking is recommended.
Sally Fletcher