Hardy souls lace up their boots for Moffat Walking Weekend

Walkers of all ages and abilities came to take on the challenge of everything from free and easy rambles to more taxing long-distance trails

The autumnal weather did not prevent hardy souls from lacing up their boots and snuggling into waterproofs to enjoying the bracing air and panoramic scenery on The Moffat Walking Weekend.

Walkers of all ages and abilities came to take on the challenge of everything from easy rambles to more taxing long-distance trails – not to mention the delicious homemade cake at Upper Annandale Parish Church, and even a wee dram or a pint at the end enjoyed for some walks.

Residents behind Walk Moffat – who organise the event to show all that the town has to offer alongside its history and heritage – have hailed it as “a triumph”.

The festival was first held in 2021 and has improved its offering every year with numbers taking part increasing.

A statement from Walk Moffat said: “A huge thank you to everyone who came along and made it such a success. And thank you to all who contributed – from the walk leaders and back markers to the first aiders and the admin team, to the brilliant bakers who provided refreshments at registration; Peter our driver; and all our partners at Moffat Distillery, Upper Annandale Parish Church, Mostly Ghostly Tours, Borders Forest Trust, Moffat Civic Pride, Visit Moffat and the Moffat Community Observatory.

“And a special thanks to Elsie the minister who stepped in to help right from the off. We couldn’t have done it without you all.”

Among the walks was a gentle stroll down by the riverside, led by walk leader Miles, who shared his local knowledge which was topped by the sighting of a heron.

And among the sell-outs, night-time walkers had much to see in Moffat’s dark skies, with walk leader Sonny sharing stories about the stars. The dark sky walk also included a trip to the Moffat Observatory and the chance to stargaze through the telescopes, before visiting Moffat Distillery for a wee dram.

The 16-mile walk to Broadlaw with walk leader Robert did not disappoint and all enjoyed themselves despite the showers, with the sun also coming out.

Another route took walkers to the iconic Devil’s Beef Tub, while more put their best feet forward on the Historic Moffat walk with leader, Andy, or grabbed their binoculars for the birdwatching walk.

Walk Moffat have also announced that next year’s festival will run from September 26-28.

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