Summer solstice walks

On June 21, the Earth’s northern axis will reach the point where it’s tilted most towards the sun – giving us maximum daylight to enjoy the balmy summer evenings. If you’d rather don walking boots than druids’ robes (or better yet both) here’s a selection of top midsummer walks. Booking is essential for most, so click on the title for more information on each event.

Summer chorus
Various RSPB sites around the country will be hosting Summer Soltice events; ranging from a sunset tour and refreshments at Conwy in Wales to an action-packed evening of dancers, jugglers, craft stalls and games at Top Lodge near Corby. You can also watch waterfront wildlife at The Stour Estuary in Essex or take a guided tour of Lake Vyrnwy with site manager Mike Walker before finishing at the Lake Vyrnwy Hotel, where you can treat yourself to a drink at the bar and watch the extended sunset.

Walking with druids
Join Cwmcarn Forest staff, historians and local druids on a fact-packed walk up Twmbarlwm to enjoy the sunset on the longest day of the year. A ‘strenuous’ climb (children age 10 and over should have no trouble), but the view will surely be worth the effort.

A cuppa at Calderdale
Possibly our favourite of the lot, this five mile walk from Ogden Water to The Nab costs just 50p and promises a ‘a hot cuppa’ while you watch the sunset.

Ancient heights
Set within Northumberland National Park, Simonside (left) has drawn people to its summit for thousands of years. Choose your own route to the top and discover ancient history along the way before enjoying the sunset over Coquetdale and stunning views of the Cheviot Hills.

Supper at Sutton Hoo
For something less arduous but no less steeped in history, why not join Time Team‘s Dr. Sam Newton for a special presentation about this famed Anglo-Saxon burial site. The talk will be followed by a two course buffet supper and a sunset tour of the burial mounds.

Woodland wander
Join the Claybury Woods rangers on a gentle evening stroll through the woodland followed by a picnic by the lake.

King of the castle
Meet Julian the Castle Hill ranger for a gentle four mile walk to enjoy the longest day on and around Castle Hill.

Circle tour
If you really can’t resist – and you’re willing to brave the crowds – Stonehenge really is the ultimate solstice destination. Click on the link above to download a 3.5mile walk through the local landscape.