THE EIGHTEENTH Otley Walking Festival will get underway this weekend.

The 2018 event runs from Saturday, June 23 to Sunday, July 1 and features a packed programme of daily walks plus related activities and evening events.

Everything from short strolls through the town to long, tough hikes that span several dales will be included with a variety of routes to cater for all abilities.

This year's festival begins at 9.45am on Saturday with an eight mile walk from White Cross car park, in Guiseley to Ilkley railway station.

Other opening day events include a Four Pubs Walk starting from Otley, a Hike to Hawksworth and an Otley Welcomes organised History Walk - visiting places around town that are associated with people who have been welcomed to Otley.

Beer, cakes, poetry, reservoirs, music, Morris dancers and wildlife are just some of the themes that will inform other events as the festival progresses.

Otley Walking Festival Committee Chair Ruth Blackwell said: "The programme is looking good again this year - with 57 walks and events, there really is something for everyone!

"Thanks to all the volunteer walk leaders who come up with such interesting events each year.

"This is a great opportunity to enjoy all that Otley and the wonderful Wharfedale environment have to offer and people can be sure of a warm welcome."

The evening events, meanwhile will include an Otley Film Society presentation of Mountain and an illustrated talk by Mick Bradley on The Trials and Tribulations of Munro Bagging, both at Otley Courthouse.

The festival is set to end in time-honoured tradition with a Grand Finale and raffle prize draw at the Manor House from 3.30pm on Sunday, July 1.

Festival programmes can be picked up from the Courthouse, Otley Core, local libraries and Tourist Information Centres and local businesses.

The schedule can also be viewed at www.otleywalkingfestival.co.uk or www.chevintrek.co.uk .