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

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 Coalville area.

• May 14: History Walk to Grace Dieu Priory. Start time 3pm Leisurely 2 miles, 2 hours, 0 stiles STARTING POINT Bull's Head, Thringstone Car Park LE67 8LT Walk through part of Grace Dieu Wood, under the Charnwood Forest Railway, along part of The Forest Line Canal and into the picturesque ruins of Gracedieu Priory, a 13th century nunnery. Learn about the area's history along the way

• May 18: A Walk Around Whitwick. Start time 1.30pm Leisurely 2 miles, 1.5 hours, 0 stiles STARTING POINT The Old Station, North Street, Whitwick LE67 5HA On-street parking in Church Lane, Whitwick A guided village walk which links significant historical sites in Whitwick and reveals fascinating stories. The route, some of which is hilly, follows footpaths around the village centre. The walk ends back at the Old Station with light refreshments and an opportunity to see inside a unique building. Donations welcomed.

• May 18: Thornton Reservoir Nordic Nature Walk: Start time 11.30am Easy 2.5 miles, 1 hour, 0 stiles STARTING POINT Thornton Reservoir Car Park, Reservoir Road LE67 1AR Perfect walk for the beginner Nordic walker. Led by a qualified Nordic walking instructor. Booking essential. Poles will be provided. Experience a lovely circular walk around this reservoir with plenty of birdlife to see on the water. Refreshments available afterwards nearby. Contact exercise-anywhere.com/ instructor/13729-Penny+Fielden, 07502 576764, [email protected]

• May 21: Coalville Mega Walk. Start time 1pm Leisurely 6 miles, 3 hours, 0 stiles STARTING POINT Coalville Clock Tower LE67 3TU Car Park and on street. Fantastic circular walk finding hidden places in Coalville and Whitwick area. Visiting heritage, woodland, lakes and parks! All welcome. Dogs and children welcome – on leads!