The Walking East Yorkshire Festival 2025, running from 6 to 14 September, invites visitors to immerse themselves in the county’s stunning countryside, fascinating history, and vibrant culture. Now in its 15th year, the festival has become one of the UK’s most anticipated walking and outdoor events, attracting locals and international visitors alike.
Set against the backdrop of rolling hills, rugged coastlines, and historic market towns, this year’s program is designed to highlight the region’s hidden gems and authentic cultural experiences. From serene canal boat rides to heritage tours, the event caters to nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and adventure seekers.
Diverse Activities for All
The festival promises a variety of outdoor experiences to suit every interest and ability. Walkers can enjoy guided countryside trails, family-friendly heritage routes, or challenging coastal treks along the King Charles III England Coast Path. For those seeking a slower pace, boat rides on the Pocklington Canal provide a peaceful way to take in East Yorkshire’s waterways.
Highlights include:
- Laurel Vines Vineyard Tour (Driffield): Explore award-winning vineyards and taste locally crafted wines.
- Boots & Beers Walk (Wold Top Brewery, Hunmanby): A refreshing blend of walking and locally brewed beer.
- Beverley Heritage Tour: Discover the town’s rich past, from its medieval shipbuilding to its literary connections.
- Coastal Walks: Routes from Hornsea to Mappleton and Kilnsea to Easington, showcasing dramatic seascapes.
- Humber Bridge Walk: An iconic stroll across one of the world’s longest suspension bridges.
Historic Venues and Cultural Experiences
Several historic estates will open their grounds to festival visitors, providing unique opportunities to step back in time.
- Carlton Towers (Snaith): Experience the grandeur of this Victorian Gothic revival mansion.
- Wassand Hall (Hornsea): Tour beautifully preserved interiors and landscaped gardens.
In Beverley, guided tours will connect visitors with the legacy of Mary Wollstonecraft, the town’s shipbuilding heritage, and medieval market traditions.
Families and history enthusiasts can also join ghost walks, exploring local myths, eerie tales, and East Yorkshire’s folklore.
Cycling Adventures Through Rural Yorkshire
For cyclists, the festival includes guided rides across picturesque routes, offering a different way to experience East Yorkshire’s countryside. Notable routes include:
- Hornsea to Atwick: A scenic ride along rural byways and coastal paths.
- Driffield to Beverley: A route connecting charming villages with historic landmarks.
Cycling tours emphasize eco-friendly travel and sustainable tourism, aligning with the festival’s commitment to protecting natural landscapes.
Connecting Visitors and Local Communities
Organized by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council, the festival highlights the region’s efforts to promote sustainable and cultural tourism. Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure, and Tourism, Nick Coultish, emphasized the festival’s role in engaging communities and showcasing East Yorkshire’s heritage.
Local businesses, attractions, and artisans benefit from the influx of visitors, with opportunities for food tastings, craft exhibitions, and cultural workshops. Whether wandering Beverley’s cobbled streets or enjoying the tranquility of coastal villages, visitors will find authentic Yorkshire hospitality.
A Festival for Everyone
The Walking East Yorkshire Festival 2025 is designed for families, solo travelers, and seasoned walkers alike. With a wide selection of events, participants can choose between short, accessible routes or challenging trails.
Children will enjoy interactive walks themed around legends and folklore, while adults can opt for history tours or immersive cultural experiences. Fitness-friendly programs ensure accessibility for all ages and levels.
Why Visit in 2025?
This year’s festival is not just about walking—it’s about celebrating East Yorkshire’s identity. Visitors will experience:
- Breathtaking countryside landscapes.
- Rich architectural and cultural heritage.
- Warm community spirit.
- Opportunities to support sustainable local tourism.
By combining walking, cycling, and cultural tours, the event allows travelers to experience East Yorkshire from new perspectives—often discovering places hidden from traditional tourist routes.
Plan Your Trip
đź“Ť Event: Walking East Yorkshire Festival 2025
📅 Dates: 6–14 September 2025
đź“Ś Location: East Riding of Yorkshire, England
Final Word
The Walking East Yorkshire Festival 2025 is more than an outdoor event—it’s a cultural celebration of landscapes, history, and people. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of vineyards, the mystery of ghost walks, or the majesty of coastal cliffs, this festival promises unforgettable experiences in the heart of Yorkshire.
Mark your calendars, lace up your boots, and get ready to explore East Yorkshire like never before.
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