THE POPULAR Evesham Walking Festival has launched its 2025 programme of hikes with a distinctive locomotive theme.
It’s going to be ‘All Aboard’ for this summer’s event organised by Evesham Welcomes Walkers which will mark the 200th anniversary of the world’s first steam-hauled passenger train with four strolls that incorporate railways.
Over three days ramblers will get the opportunity to walk between stations on the Cotswold Line, starting at Worcestershire Parkway and ending in Honeybourne. In addition, and back by popular request, is a ‘steam’ walk between Broadway and Winchcombe, following the route of the GWSR line.
The walks form part of a nationwide celebration Railway 200 which will see a variety of events commemorating the bicentenary up and down the country.
Festival spokesperson, Alan Saunders, explained the railway emphasis of the festival: “Railway 200 is a significant event in the history of railways in the UK and marks 200 years since the first passenger train ran between Stockton and Darlington.
“We decided to mark the occasion by theming several of our festival walks around railways. We are fortunate enough to have a main line running through Evesham and will be making good use of it during this year’s festival.
“In addition, we are repeating the ever-popular walk between Broadway and Winchcombe when walkers will be able to enjoy the return journey on a train pulled by a steam locomotive after taking tea in the station café in Winchcombe.”
The festival is now in its sixth year and is becoming increasingly popular, especially with ‘festival baggers’ – a term used for ramblers who travel from festival to festival.
“Our walks get booked out very quickly, often by returning walkers and we are delighted to welcome not only local residents but also walkers from further afield who bring increased business to the town by booking accommodation and eating out during their stay,” he added.
The festival which features 25 walks in total runs from June 25 to 29. Visit: eveshamwalkfest.org.uk for information and online booking.
