Next week sees the return of the National Forest Walking Festival fortnight - including a number of trails in and around Ashby.

This popular annual event, now in its 14th year, offers a variety of trails and experiences for all walking levels and abilities.

This year's theme celebrates everything the National Forest offers – past, present and future – and will showcase its success story of huge landscape transformation from black coalfields to green treescapes. 

The festival runs from May 13 to 25 so it is the perfect way to make the most of these warmer days and with more than 80 guided walks for all abilities, from a leisurely stroll to more strenuous hikes, there is something for everyone.

Enjoy the fresh spring air as you explore the abundance of natural beauty in the area. Walk through lush green woodlands carpeted with stunning bluebells and fragrant wildflower meadows.

Look out for the surprising range of wildlife in and around the forest, and marvel at the geological stories beneath your feet. 

This year's many wildlife-themed walks invite you to celebrate and learn about nature.

Along the way, you will have the opportunity to hear more about the region's ecology, with knowledgeable guides providing fascinating insights into the plants and wildlife that can be found here. 

History buffs will also be captivated by the stories of the area's past as they discover the artefacts and landmarks that help to tell the tale of this scenic landscape.

A selection of walks invites participants to try the ancient art of Shinrin-Yoku, also known as Forest Bathing. This is a well-being technique to fully immerse yourself in the forest, experiencing the scents, textures and sounds in a deep and restorative way.

You can also try out Nordic walking, a form of exercise with poles that makes a walk into a workout as strenuous or gentle as you wish. Booking for these walks is essential as poles are provided.

A full list of a huge range of walks is available by clicking HERE.

But here is a selection of some those taking place in the Ashby area.

• May 13: Staunton Harold by Harpurs Crossing Start time 11am Leisurely 4-5 miles, 4 hours, 1 stiles STARTING POINT Calke Explore Welcome Point DE73 7LE Car park on site. Entry charges to park and gardens only - Adult £7, Child £3.50, Family £17.50. NT Members free entry. Church tour fee £5. Booking essential, call main Calke Abbey number 01332 863822 Join a Park Guide for a walk down the tramway and through Dimminsdale, leading to the Staunton Harold estate where Staunton Harold Church lies. There you will meet one of the Church Guides who will give you a tour of the Church and tell you its fascinating history, before heading back to the parkland.

• May 15: Moira Furnace Guided Walk Start time 10am Leisurely 4 miles, 2 hours, 0 stiles STARTING POINT Moira Furnace DE12 6AT Car park on site An ideal walk for those who want to get out of the house and meet other people. The walk can be up to 2 hours, covering around 4-5 miles. Routes alternate on a regular basis but are generally on flat, well surfaced canal tow paths with scenic views along the way.

• May 16: Hartshorne via Smisby Circular Start time 10am Moderate 5.5 miles, 3 hours, 8 stiles STARTING POINT Dethick Hall Car Park, Hartshorne DE11 7BE Fabulous walk through new and ancient woodlands. Bluebells should be in full bloom. Mainly good paths, but can be slippery if wet, moderate climb to Smisby. Lots of history, flora and fauna. Awesome views on a clear day. This walk really shows off the very best of the National Forest. Optional pub lunch at the end. Booking required, please call 07956 299700 or email [email protected]

• May 16: Walk After Work Start time 6.30pm Leisurely 2-3 miles, 1.5 hours, 0 stiles STARTING POINT Calke Explore Welcome Point DE73 7JF Calke Explore Car Park Entry charges to park and gardens onlyAdult £7, Child £3.50, Family£17.50 NT Members free entry Join a Park Guide for a leisurely walk in the beautiful Calke parklands and experience the tranquillity after hours. Dogs welcome.

• May 18: Measham Village History Walk Start time 10.30am Moderate 2.5 miles, 1.5 hours, 0 stiles STARTING POINT Car Park at rear of Measham Library DE12 7HR Public Car park behind library or if full High Street Car Park behind Post Office A steady walk through this National Forest village, learning about its interesting history. Discover the former canal and railway, the famous bricks, some wonderful old buildings, and learn how the village has changed. Located between Derbyshire and Leicestershire, the village has always tried to be self-sufficient with just about every industry.

• May 23: Black to Green Southern Circuit Start time 10am Leisurely 5.5 miles, 3 hours, 8 stiles STARTING POINT Moira Furnace DE12 6AT Car park on right near playing fields as entering Furnace site Wonderful walk through the former black area of industry of Coal, Clay, Lime burning, this is now turning into the most beautiful green area in the heart of the National Forest. This walk follows the Ashby Canal and the former Nuneaton to Burton rail line, and footpaths used by generations of workers. Stop for optional coffee at Hicks Lodge. Booking required. Please contact 07956 299700 or email [email protected]

• May 23: Measham - Snarestone Path Start time 10am Leisurely 6 miles, 3.5 hours, 1 stile STARTING POINT Measham Library Car Park DE12 7HR also use Peggs Close Car Park if full. The route follows part of the original line of the abandoned Ashby Canal, alternating with the agreed new route where necessary. It will cross the boundary of the National Forest at Gilwiskaw Brook, and on to Snarestone Wharf. There will then be a short break for light refreshments if required, available from the shop before we return.