WALKERS will see stunning scenery, historic landmarks, wildlife and more as part of an exciting new walking festival in Maldon.

Organised by the Maldon District Tourism Group, the Saltmarsh Coast Walking Festival will take walkers on an exploration of Maldon, Burnham, Goldhanger, Tollesbury, Heybridge Basin, Bradwell, North Fambridge and the surrounding areas.

The festival has more than 20 guided walks planned with an additional number of self-guided walks to explore at your leisure.

Complimentary evening entertainment is planned for each night, including the final night with Chris Lewis.

The ex-paratrooper recently completed the 19,000-mile UK coastline walk, raising £500,000 for charity.

All walks and talks are free of charge but must be pre-booked to guarantee a place.

Maldon District Council leader Richard Siddall said: “I am pleased to see the Saltmarsh Coast Walking Festival come to the district. Walking is a fantastic way to explore the Maldon district and discover its unique history, culture, and character.

“I would like to thank the Maldon District Tourism Group for their hard work in bringing the festival to life. It is a great demonstration of what we can achieve when local businesses, community organisations, and the council work together.”

“I look forward to taking part in one of the walks and joining this fantastic community event”

James Burrell-Cook, landlord of the Queen Victoria pub and chair of the Maldon District Tourism Group, said: “I am very excited that the Saltmarsh Walking Festival will be happening this September.

“The festival is the first major project for the Maldon District Tourism Group since its creation earlier in the year and is testament to the hard work and collaboration of our members.

"The RSPB, National Trust, Essex Wildlife Trust and partners from the Ramblers Association, Maldon Heybridge Heritage Harbour Association, of course, lots of local businesses have all supported this year’s event.

“With support from the group, we have planned an exciting series of walks and activities for all abilities, not just the walking enthusiasts, to really get involved in, with guided walks led by experienced and knowledgeable guides and volunteers in the Maldon district.

“I hope that the festival will encourage more people to explore some of the amazing natural highlights the area has to offer, as well as learning more of the history that has made Maldon district, so special.”

The Saltmarsh Walking Festival is suitable for all ages and abilities, and there will be different routes and distances to choose from.

For full details of the guided walks and evening entertainment, go to visitmaldondistrict.co.uk/walkingfestival.