PEOPLE across the district are being urged to lace-up their boots and explore the outdoors as part of a major festival.

The Ramblers are staging a Walk About initiative, during which hundreds of free group walks will be on offer nationally and in this area.

Among the aims of the festival, which runs from May 26 to June 3, is to encourage people to get out and about in their local district and uncover ‘hidden gems’.

Vanessa Griffiths, chief executive of the Ramblers, said: “Anyone who loves walking will know it’s the best way to discover the world around you – it could be an amazing secret view, a quirky old building tucked down a side-street or simply a great new walking route.

“We know lots of great spots and wonderful walks and want to share them with others.

“If you want to discover local places that are great for walking and enjoy the outdoors in good company, come and join us on one of our walks. And bring your friends and family too – everyone is welcome!”

A variety of walks is on offer, from short strolls to more-challenging routes.

Those being held locally include the Cullingworth Capers, on Thursday, May 31, starting at 10.30am.

It will cover a moderately difficult route of almost ten miles.

The 12-mile Worth Way walk takes place on Sunday, June 3, from 10am.

It will start in Keighley and then head to Hainworth, Oxenhope and Oakworth, before returning to the town.

Other featured walks include a six-mile circular, Old Paths and Ways around Bronte Country.

It sets off from Haworth and follows moorland paths once trodden by the legendary literary sisters.

There are also listings for post-festival walks, such as Bodkin Lane & Back, on Wednesday, June 27.

Starting at 10.30am, it will follow a 5.5-mile route on the moors west of Oxenhope.

The festival is being supported by the People’s Postcode Lottery.

Spokeswoman Clara Govier said: “We are delighted that People’s Postcode Lottery players are able to support the Ramblers with their Walk About festival, which we know will help thousands of people discover the joys of walking.”

For full details of festival walks, visit ramblers.org.uk/walkabout2018.