A SERIES of night time walking events will be welcoming punters through Cumbria's woodlands.

As part of the broader stargazing festival known as Cumbria's Dark Skies Festival, there will be forest walks, as well as a host of nocturnal activities from rock pooling in the dark on the west coast, night time canoeing, listening to wildlife and studying the moon through a telescope with the Eddington Astronomical Society.

A spokesperson from the organisers of the events said: "Join us as part of Cumbria's Dark Skies festival.

"Enjoy a walk through the forest as night draws in. We will hopefully see some stars, look for well known constellations and other features of the night sky; star maps will be provided.

"We will also experience the very different sounds and sights of the forest after dark.

"The route is three to four miles on good trails. We will have volunteers on hand to help manage the group, and they can help you return to your car early if you need too.

"Come wrapped up for the weather, bring a flask or snacks if you want too.

"Head torches with a red filter for star gazing ideal, but any torch is fine.

"There will be a stop around half way, or enjoy a warm drink when you've finished.

"All welcome, we've had guests from six months to over six decades!

"Very young children may find it a bit scary if not used to being outside in the dark."

The event costs £10 for adults and children over 12, £5 for self propelled children under 12, and no charge for carried children.

The first Festival event is going to be followed by two events of the same nature, one on Saturday, February 12, and another one on Saturday, February 25. For more information on the festival go to visitlakedistrict.com/explore/dark-sky-cumbria/cumbria-dark-skies-festival.

Ahead of the festival, there is also going to be a night walk through Whinlatter on Saturday, January 15, put on by Forestry England and JAG Outdoors, a group focussed on building confidence in the outdoor environment and health and wellbeing.

JAG Outdoors puts on fitness classes, navigation courses, confidence-building walks, and fully guided walks and other 'bespoke' adventures.