ONE of the North York Moors most picturesque dales is to host a walking festival this weekend.

Walks for people with an interest in wildlife photography, history, folklore and meditation and even cake will all feature in Rosedale’s Walking Festival, which takes place this weekend (Saturday, June 14 and Sunday, June 15).

Six different walks have been drawn up, including a tea shop walk - a moderate to easy hike which runs from 10am to 5pm on Saturday and takes in three of Rosedale’s cafes.

Also on Saturday there will be a walk for children led by Rosedale Abbey School, a one mile ramble primarily aimed at children 11 and under, which will be based on a trail booklet designed by pupils at the village school.

In the afternoon, Edward Harpin, from The Orange Tree relaxation centre in Rosedale will lead an eight mile walk which takes in some of the landmarks associated with local folklore and legend, including local leylines and routes once taken by local monks.

Sunday’s walks will include a five mile wildlife walk over four hours with opportunities for sketching and photography.

People wanting to take part can turn up on the day, but to book a place on one of the walks, call 01751-417505 or email walkrosedale@outlook.com

For more information, including ticket prices, visit rosedaleabbey.com/walking-festival.html