The unmissable English Riviera Walking Festival is back

Have a wander-ful time at the English Riviera Walking Festival, which is returning to Torquay from 14-22 June 2025.

The highly anticipated festival has now announced its dynamic programme of guided walks and immersive experiences, led by local experts.

The festival is organised by the English Riviera BID Company in collaboration with Torbay Council, and is designed to showcase the best that the English Riviera has to offer.

As a not-for-profit event, ticket sales help both the English Riviera BID Company and Torbay Council to deliver professionally guided tours and showcase the region's natural and cultural beauty to a wider audience.

The festival offers something for everyone, with highlights for 2025 including Agatha Christie’s ‘The Queen of Crime Waves’ and a 12-mile guided tour along the South West Coast Path from Torquay to Brixham.

It aims to celebrate the area’s unique charm and its status as a UNESCO Global Geopark.

Food lovers can enjoy an indulgent Chocolate & Gin Tour, while artists can learn from semi-finalist in Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year, James Murch, on the ‘Sunset Sketch and Stroll’.

James will guide you through a location that has been instrumental to his artistic development.  

Those keen to explore mindfulness can join Sunset Solstice Yoga, while music fans can journey down memory lane on the Magical Musical Sunset Tour, featuring music from legendary bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.

The ‘Shore to Sea Adventure' offers guests the chance to discover the English Riviera by both land and sea, including a cruise to round off the journey.

Nature enthusiasts can try their hand at plant foraging by booking their place on ‘Foraging with Flora', explore local wildlife with ‘Nature Ramble with a Ranger’, or join distinguished ornithologist and wildlife expert, Mike Langham, on the Coastal Bird Watching Experience.

‘The Story of Agatha Christie’s Extraordinary Life’, and ‘Babbacombe’s Tales of the Unexpected’, are ideal experiences for history buffs, while ‘Crimes on the Coast’ will bring to life local mysteries that have perplexed the community. 

The ‘Tall Tales and Sea Shanties’ tour will blend coastal storytelling with traditional music.

Carolyn Custerson, CEO of English Riviera BID Company, said: “The English Riviera is a destination like no other, offering an unparalleled blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Our carefully curated Walking Festival 2025 programme has been designed to showcase the very best of what this stunning coastal region has to offer, from tracing Agatha Christie's fascinating legacy to exploring the breathtaking landscapes of the UNESCO Global Geopark.

“We are delighted to invite everyone to discover the unique charm and vibrant stories of the English Riviera and enjoy all the brand-new immersive opportunities."

Councillor Jacqueline Thomas, Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture & Events at Torbay Council, added: “We invite you to join us this June for the English Riviera Walking Festival.

“There’s no better way to experience the beauty, sights, sounds, tastes, and culture of the English Riviera than on foot. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, lace up your walking boots and be part of this unforgettable adventure.”

Early bird pricing is available until 17 April, with tickets starting at just £12 per walk. 

For more information and to secure your spot, visit https://rivierawalking.co.uk/ 

Spaces are limited, so advice is to book early to avoid disappointment.