Ramblers get the chance to walk back to happiness when they take part in the first ever Chichester Walking Weekend.
And as well as rambling, those taking part will display a passion for protecting footpaths and the countryside, says Paul Bould as news of the eagerly anticipated event emerged.
Paul, of the South West Sussex Ramblers, was speaking as it was revealed that the event — a collaboration between Visit Chichester and The Ramblers Association South West Sussex Group — will take place in September.
The weekend will showcase the wealth of attractions this wonderful part of Sussex has to offer as a premier walking destination; and what’s more, many of the guided events will be free of charge. The event will see walkers enjoy the magnificence of the South Downs National Park, the stunning stretches of coastline, the natural beauty of Chichester Harbour and, of course, the historic Roman City of Chichester itself.
There is something for everyone in this celebration of the area whilst promoting the health benefits of walking, says Paul, who added:
“The Ramblers do a lot more than organise walking groups. They have a passion for protecting footpaths and the countryside, and this is at the heart of all their campaigns.
“The collaboration with ‘Visit Chichester’ was a natural fit as their overall aim is to encourage visitors to experience this amazing part of the country, and I am delighted so many local groups are participating and offering walks in their specialist fields. We are even lucky enough to be able to offer a wheelchair ‘wheel, roll, stroll’. We truly believe there will be an event happening to suit everyone.”
The weekend will offer walkers the chance to take in the stunning scenery that this unique part of the country has to offer, while being led by a knowledgeable guide. Trails will lead walkers over the picturesque Downs, while other routes will amble around the Manhood Peninsular, exploring the local history of Selsey and Sidlesham, against the backdrop of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
City routes will guide walkers through Chichester’s 2,000-year history, discovering lesser-known nooks and crannies and exploring the city’s celebrated landmarks too. Further walks explore the areas around the quaint market towns of Midhurst and Petworth, while The Weald & Downland Living Museum is also offering a one-mile guided walk of the unique museum.
Visit Chichester’s chairman of the board, Craig Gershater, says there is lots to like about the event. He said:
“We live in one of the most uniquely beautiful areas of the country where we have access to stunning stretches of coastline, picturesque coastal villages, a harbour brimming with wildlife, beautiful countryside to explore, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and a city centre rich in heritage and historical importance, as well as quaint market towns.
“We hope the Chichester Walking Weekend will give walkers a chance to experience some of this wonderful part of the world while encouraging people to get outdoors.”
