MEMBERS of the public are being invited to step out with the Ramblers during its annual Festival of Winter Walks.

The guided walks are free to attend and will provide an opportunity to explore beautiful wintry landscapes – and maybe even a chance to leave footprints in the snow.

Hundreds of events are being put on across the West Midlands, including two walks in Worcestershire.

Benedict Southworth, chief executive of Ramblers, said: “Walking is great at any time of the year, we’re spoiled by our dramatic coastlines, rolling hills and stunning views, but there’s nothing quite like wrapping up warm and heading out with family and friends to explore Britain at its wintry best.

“Our walks during the festival are free, fun and open to everyone, so put on your hat and scarf and join us as we head out into the crisp, clear winter to enjoy the season the way we know best, on our feet.”

On Monday, December 29, a post-Christmas ramble will start from Worcester Woods Country Park at 10am The Spetchley festive winter walk will be a five-mile route across pastures and ploughed fields taking in “amazing views of the Malvern Hills and Bredon along the way”.

A similar distance will be covered during the Great Malvern winter walk on Tuesday, December 30.

This ramble, which is described as “an interesting local history walk with plenty of points of interest from medieval monks to the water cure”, will start at 10am from the larger Priory Road car park.

For more information about the Festival of Winter Walks visit ramblers.org.uk/winterwalks