CASTLE HILL ranger Julian Brown isinviting people to join him on a Beltaine Beckons Walk on Saturday, May 1 – to welcome the start of spring.
Beltaine was an important festival in the ancient Celtic calendar, celebrating the coming of spring, fertility and new life.
The name originates from the Celtic god Bel, the ‘bright one’, and the Gaelic word ‘teine’ meaning fire, giving the name ‘bealttainn’, meaning ‘bright fire’.
Fires were lit and people would leap over them to ensure fertility and good luck.
There will be no fires to leap on Castle Hill in Almondbury, instead Julian will be leading a ‘moderate/hard’ six-mile walk on and around the ancient monument.
The walk starts at 1pm from the car park at the top of Castle Hill and will last around three hours. It is free but anyone wanting to take part must book a place by contacting Julian, tel: 07968 426312.
Walkers should wear good footwear and warm clothing and take waterproofs. Children must be accompanied and no dogs are allowed apart from guide and assistance dogs.
The walk will include slopes, rough terrain and a number of stiles.
Victoria Tower will be open May 1, 2 and 3, 12.30pm-4.30pm, so visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the top.
Admission charges are £1.30 adults, 60p children, £3 families (two adults and up to four children). Kirklees Passport holders go free.
