THIS year’s Swanage and Purbeck Walking Festival will take place from September 20, it has been confirmed.

Now in its fifth year, the festival runs for eight days, with routes criss-crossing the Isle of Purbeck and the Jurassic Coast.

Festival organiser Andy Pedrick said: “This year, in particular, we have lots of themed walks. We have a wealth of knowledge locally from our volunteer guides, so there should be something for everyone, covering all tastes and fitness abilities.”

The festival boasts a varied programme, with some walks this year including a pub lunch or steam train ride home.

Youngsters will even be able to enjoy a family weekend ‘Bug Walk’ this year, organisers say. Thousands of visitors have taken part in the festival in recent years.

See walkswanage.com for details.