2019 was the 4th Purbeck Nordic walking festival (known as PURPLEBECK) It has grown significantly over the years and now attracts 700 plus walkers to a mix of walks, workshops and social events over 3 days every September.

This year, WALX sponsored the event and a decision was made to open up some of the walks to non Nordic walkers. Although still predominantly a Nordic walking Festival this action did encourage those not ready to master the poles yet, to join in the many themed walks.

Gill Stewart from Exercise Anywhere the parent company of WALX and NWUK says ” Lots of our avid pole walkers have relatives who miss out on all of the fun because they are labelled as ‘Nordic Walking’. Many of our workshops and themed events like Paella on the beach, Geology walks and our latest programme YOGA WALX (pictured) , are totally suitable for these folk to join in and poles are not essential at all. It was great to see more people enjoying the Festival and we aim to expand on it in 2020.

Watch this space for two long distance walking distance challenges and a host of events that will be open to all walkers to enjoy. in 2020

“This year we had over 50 activities a day on offer (see the schedule here to get a feel for the event)” says Gill but we are working on more social events, more themed walks and even more workshops for next year!

We are really grateful to our sponsors GRUB’S shoes who were in the retail store marquee, the Team from The Outdoor Guide with Julia Bradbury (TOG) who supported our other new initiative the accessible WALX and Exodus Travels who support our Instructors to deliver brilliant walking based holidays.

If you fancy joining WALX at the festival in 202o make sure you follow the event on Facebook @purplebeckfest to stay in touch and grab a ticket at earlybird rates when they are released. Tickets will soon be on sale for 2020 so its also a good idea to register on the events website www.nordicwalking.events