Walton is home to the world’s first nature reserve, situated on the grounds around Walton Hall now Waterton Park Hotel. Charles Waterton built a three mile long wall around it and in 2026 it celebrates its 200th birthday. A celebration of Charles Waterton and his Wall. We are planning a month-long series of events around four themes:

 ·         Nature

·         Creativity/culture

·         Heritage

·         Wellbeing

throughout the month of May 2026 to mark this special birthday.

WallFest 26 planning is advancing at a pace. The programme will be published in the New Year. However, we can tell you that the following will be involved:

• Age UK

• En Route Hair and Beauty

• Evolve Pilates

• Helen Thomas - Artist

• Lynn Clegg

• New Inn

• Sarah Fleming – Children’s Crafts

• Second Chance Brain Injury Charity

• Silvertini Restaurant

• St Austin’s Church, Wakefield

• St Helen’s Church, Sandal

• St Oswald’s Church, Methley

• Studio A Theatre Arts

• U3A

• Wakefield Badger Group

• Wakefield Camera Club

• Wakefield Sight Aid

• Walton Community Library

• Walton Methodist Church

• Walton Primary Academy

• Walton Rainbows, Brownies and Girl Guides

• Waterton Park Hotel

• West Yorkshire Archives

• Working for Walton
  

And a variety of guest speakers, talks and walks. Something for everybody!

Plus others to be announced…

More information to follow.