How do I join the walks?
At the moment we’re just a small group of people going on a walk, there is nothing to join. Our current walkers are welcome to bring along friends, then those walkers are welcome to introduce their friends; we call it a “friend of a friend” system. As there are only a few of us, this system allows us to keep track of whom we’re waiting for at the start of the walk. If you’re a friend of friend and would like to attend a walk, just ask to be put on the mailing list.
Do I need any previous walking experience?
No, but we do ask you to come with a good attitude. On some of the walks you will get tired and we’re not in control of the weather so it might get cold and wet, but nothing beats a bit of positivity to crack on and enjoy the walk.
What equipment do I need to bring?
Required equipment will depend on the walk and conditions, here’s an example of a long list.
For most of the walks we go on the list can be simplified but you should always prepare for the worst conditions possible that day (it’s not “it probably won’t rain” but “it might rain”). We ask for people joining a walk to use their best judgement but we recommend:
Essential
- Sensible trousers / shorts (no jeans)
- T-shirt / base layer
- Fleece / top layer
- Waterproof jacket
- Thick socks
- Walking boots
- Rucksack
- Lunch plus emergency extra food
- Money (Cash for drink, bus, train, etc…)
- Phone
- Plasters
- 1L Water
- Camera
Consider also bringing the following
- Hat (even in the summer)
- Gloves
- Waterproof trousers
- Thermals
- Suncream (even on a cloudy day)
- Sunglasses
- Map
- Map case
- Head Torch
- Compass
- Whistle
- First Aid kit
- Foil Blanket
Can kids come on the walks?
Children’s walking ability will develop at different ages. On the shorter walks there will usually be kids (normally over the age of 5). On longer walks we ask parents to use their own judgement bearing in mind the wider group and the need to stick together for the whole walk.
How long do the walks take?
We try and estimate how long a walk will take but this can vary considerably based on a number of factors. People typically walk between 2 and 4 mph, then you need to take into consideration the conditions under foot, break times, route length and inclines. Walk times will depend mostly on who’s on the walk, therefore we ask that you’re patient with slower walkers. Here is a useful link to a walking time calculator:
The Walking Englishman’s Walk Time Calculator
I’ve got a great idea for a walk, can we do it?
YES. If you’ve got somewhere you want to visit or even have a complete walk planned, just let us know. We’re always looking for future walks and any inspiration will be greatly appreciated.
Am I allowed to bring my walking poles?
Walking poles will be tolerated.
Am I allowed to bring dogs?
YES. But… only if they are very well behaved and will not jump up at strangers (especially children) and will not chase wildlife or hold up the walk. Some locations will not allow dogs whereas others will. We will include whether dogs are allowed in the details for each walk.
I’ve spotted a diversion over Black Hill, should I take it?
Places are normally called Black Hill because they’re a bog, you’ve been warned.