Meet the team
Paul Birbeck
Since 2013, Paul has worked as a holiday guide across southern & south west England and led small private adult groups walking holidays to Devon, Dorset, Somerset & beyond. He became a South West Region Blue Badge Guide in 2018.
His previous career included secondary school teaching in Gloucestershire and Wiltshire; Geography & Environmental Education Advisor for Somerset, Headteacher in Kuwait, Windsor and Somerset, School Inspector and a School Management consultant.
He is very knowledgeable and familiar with the social, economic & political history, geography & geology that create the distinctive character of the West Country.
A confident and relaxed guide who has a reputation for making things interesting for clients. “His enthusiasm was passed onto the group and we all felt that not only had we walked along this incredible coastline, but we also had learnt so much about it. A top rate leader. Good local knowledge and friendly.” – HF guest feedback
“Thank you for such a brilliant tour around the town of Sherborne. Everyone had a great day and I have received many notes from attendees commenting on the quality and detail provided. They also found both guides highly personable and very knowledgeable and passionate about the town.” – Tour Manager, Historic Houses Association.
Julia Morris
Julia first qualified as a Blue Badge Guide working in Dorset and the South West and now works across southern England leading private tours for families and groups. Previously she worked as a Museum learning manager and living history teacher specialising in the interpretation of history through food, culture, and an understanding of the wonderful landscape of southern England.
Sherborne has long been a favourite place to guide; a small market town with a fascinating history and great variety of stories to tell. She takes great pleasure in uncovering what will inspire and intrigue visitors and discovering themes that bring our surroundings to life in a new or unexpected light.
Cindy Chant
Cindy founded Sherborne Walks in 2015 and earned a reputation as an enthusiastic and incredibly knowledgeable Blue Badge guide, promoting Sherborne in her own inimitable style. She has over 50 years of accumulated knowledge from living in the area and a passionate interest in its heritage and has devoted herself to the history of this ancient and beautiful town. Be warned – Sir Walter Raleigh is her true love!
Owing to health issues, Cindy no longer offers walks or guided tours.
Our Accreditations & Partners
Highly Rated on Trip Advisor
Sherborne is so full of history. Paul brought it all to life. Sherborne Walks is a must do in Sherborne. My son and I thoroughly loved it.
Eileen S
27 September 2023
