Free annual walking festival returns to Amber Valley

Credit: Groundwork Five Counties

Autumn Footprints, the much-loved free annual walking festival around the Amber Valley countryside, is back for its 24th year, running from 12th to 27th September 2026. Organised by green charity Groundwork Five Counties and Amber Valley Borough Council, the festival offers 24 walks for all ages and abilities.

The walks range in distance, terrain, difficulty, and location around Amber Valley, with something on offer for everyone; from young families to experienced hikers. Each walk is led by a local guide who will explain the local history and heritage, points of interest, nature and wildlife.

Marion Farrell, organiser at Groundwork Five Counties, said: “We are excited to once again bring this free event to Amber Valley. Every year we welcome hundreds of people on our walks, some who live locally, and some who come from afar to experience the beauty of Derbyshire.

“We have a busy schedule again with 24 free walks over two weeks, and people can book onto as many as they want. On the website you can see all walk information such as date and time, location, topic, grading, accessibility, parking, public transport, and much more. Dogs are welcome on many walks, so feel free to bring your four-footed friend along!”

The walking festival adheres to the countryside code, which includes respecting everyone and their property, looking after the wildlife and the environment, parking considerately, and leaving nothing but footprints behind.

All walks are free, and any parking charges are noted within the individual walk information. To see what’s on offer and book your place, visit the website.