Event Type: Local / Community

Takes Place: 1st May 2026

Venue: Walton, Wakefield

Description: Walton is home to the world’s first nature reserve, created on the grounds surrounding Walton Hall—now the Waterton Park Hotel and Spa. Naturalist Charles Waterton enclosed his parkland with a three-mile-long wall, establishing what is widely recognised as the first nature reserve. In May 2026, this historic wall will celebrate its 200th anniversary. To mark this milestone, WallFest 26 will be dedicated to celebrating Charles Waterton’s wall and his legacy of pioneering conservation work. The Friends of Waterton’s Wall are planning a month-long programme of events throughout May 2026 to commemorate this special bicentenary. These events will honour Waterton’s vision and highlight the significance of the wall and the nature reserve it protects.

How to book: Many events do not require pre-booking - see the programme for details. Those that do go to: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/the-friends-of-watertons-wall

Email: friendspfwatertonswall@gmail.com

Website: https://www.friendsofwatertonswall.com/wallfest-26

Organiser: Alison Buckler

Comments: The programme is here: https://tinyurl.com/e4bk2x69 Most events are FREE.

Region: Yorkshire and Humber