Best feet forward for walk fest

YESTERDAY was the final day of the Walk Fest in Newton Stewart.

The annual event began last week, drawing a number of walkers and outdoor enthusiasts to the Galloway Hills.

Now in its 22nd year, the festival continues to grow in popularity, celebrating the region’s rugged beauty, rich wildlife, and welcoming community spirit.

This year’s programme features more than 30 guided walks, ranging from gentle coastal routes to challenging hill climbs across the Galloway Forest Park.

Highlights include a sunrise ascent of Merrick, southern Scotland’s highest peak, and themed walks focusing on local heritage, geology, and wildlife photography.

Evening events at the Newton Stewart cinema and community centre featured talks from environmental experts, as well as live music from regional artists.

With perfect spring weather and a programme blending adventure, education, and camaraderie, the 2026 Walk Fest continues in its stride for another year, with dates already pick out for 2027.

Joan Mitchell, chair of the festival organising committee, said: “It’s all gone very well, we’ve had absolutely gorgeous weather until Monday when it got a but wet and windy.

“The numbers this year have been much the same as previous years, and folk have had a really lovely time and good experiences.

“Every year we get a lot a really good support from the Galloway Mountain Rescue Team and the Wigtownshire Ramblers who act as leaders for many of the walks, we really couldn’t do this without them. They are the real back-bone of the festival.

“After this festival closes, we’ll be taking a wee break before getting back into it and getting things sorted for 2027.”