The Lightweight Adventurers Festival in the Peak District

In 2022, I embarked on an unforgettable adventure to the Lightweight Adventurers Festival, an annual motorcycle gathering nestled in the breathtaking Peak District. The event was tailor-made for those of us who share a passion for lightweight motorcycles and the spirit of lightweight adventure travel. I rode in on my trusty old Honda CRF250, ready for an experience that would leave me with cherished memories and new friendships.

Organised by the dynamic duo, Jamie and Marc, the festival’s first edition in 2022 turned out to be a resounding success. With just a few hundred attendees, it felt like a close-knit community of like-minded individuals. It was like going away for a motorbiking weekend with your mates.

The event was graced by some incredible speakers from the world of motorcycling, sharing their wisdom and tales of adventure. The sun beamed down on us, creating a perfect atmosphere that radiated positivity and camaraderie. It was an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything.

Having just started my KILNmoto YouTube channel months before the festival, it gave me the perfect opportunity to document more of my own motorcycle experiences. It was a rewarding experience to share my adventures with others who shared my enthusiasm. You can watch my 2022 LWA Festival video here. It was also the first time I’d attempted to do an interview, but Jamie and Marc were happy to oblige.

Fast forward to 2023, and the event faced the unpredictable British summer – relentless winds and rain were aplenty. Despite the challenging weather, I was determined to make the most of it. Unfortunately, family commitments forced me to cut my stay short, but I cherished every moment spent battling the elements alongside fellow adventurers. The festival’s attendance numbers had grown, yet it still retained that personal, close-knit feel that drew me to it in the first place.

Lightweight Adventure Festival 2023 – The wet one

Looking ahead to 2024, the festival promises exciting changes. Firstly, a catchy new name – The Lightweight Adventure Festival. There’s also a new and larger venue for 2024, which provides the organisers with the opportunity to build upon the already successful formula. The festival’s website teases the return of world-traveler speakers on the Traveller’s Stage, allowing attendees to glean insights and advice from those who’ve explored the globe on two wheels. The 2nd stage, aka the Creators Stage, will again be hosted by the Trail and Adventure Motorbike Podcast team, offering a platform for another group of fascinating motorbike content creators to share their experiences and inspire others.

For me, the Lightweight Adventurers Festival wasn’t just about motorcycles; it was about forging connections with like-minded individuals. I’ve met new friends who shared my passion for adventure, and together, we’ve ventured deeper into the beautiful landscapes surrounding us.

The festival’s commitment to inclusivity is evident through its FAQ section. It welcomes all, regardless of your level of experience or the type of bike you ride. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re into travel, trail riding, or filmmaking.

Of course you can’t put a few hundred people in a field in the Peak District without offering an abundance of food and drink options, so Jamie and Marc, will again be organising quality food stalls, many of which are from the local community. There will certainly be a bar or two for those feeling like they need a refreshment during the festival. On that point, I noticed at this year’s festival the inclement weather forced me to increase my own Guinness intake but only because I accidentally took shelter from the rain in the bar tent!

Enjoying just the odd Guinness at the LWAFest

The Lightweight Adventurers Festival in 2024 promises to be a highlight on the calendar for any lightweight adventurer. With new speakers, a fresh venue, and the same spirit of camaraderie, it’s an event that I’m eagerly looking forward to.

In the end, the Lightweight Adventurers Festival isn’t just about motorcycles; it’s about the shared love for adventure, the connections forged, and the memories created. It’s an annual gathering that celebrates the thrill of the open road and trails, the beauty of the outdoors, and the spirit of adventure that unites likeminded, likeable people.