How to join a walk

All walks must be pre-booked and numbers are limited. We use a booking agent, Bradsons, for all bookings. Walks and other events can be booked directly via a web link to Bradsons.  We hope you will find this a simple and efficient way to book your walks.  If you would prefer not to book online, you may book by telephoning Bradsons using a credit or debit card.  You may also pay by cheque: ‘phone Bradsons first to make your booking and then send the cheque to them.


Which walk is for me?

The walk grades are described below.  Please check the mileage for each walk and be sure that it is within your own capabilities.  Although the walk leaders will do their best to set a pace to suit everyone, it is important to be sure you are fit for the walks you choose.

  

What should I wear?

We recommend that all walkers  wear comfortable and supportive footwear. In practice this nearly always means walking boots with good ankle support.  


Please also remember suitable clothing such as waterproofs and sunhats.  Waterproofs are essential on ALL walks. Please be aware that if there has been rainfall some routes may be muddy and gaiters can provide good protection.  


A day pack for packed lunch, drinks and extra clothing is recommended. Walk leaders reserve the right to refuse to take anyone on the walk if they are not adequately equipped.  This is particularly important on the longer more strenuous walks, where there are unlikely to be “escape points” where walks can be shortened.


Walk Grades

Please read the detailed instructions for each walk, as well as the grade, to make sure you choose a walk to suit you.  If walkers all book themselves on appropriate walks, it makes it easy for leaders to set a pace that suits each group.  If you are unsure about a walk, please telephone us and discuss this.


Easy walks are intended for most people. The route will be mainly flat and the pace will be gentle. Please note there may be some inclines.


Moderate walks are for people with walking experience and a good level of fitness. Moderate pace.


Moderate plus (+) walks.  This is a new grade introduced in 2010.  We realised that nearly all our walks were graded Moderate, but some were harder than others.  A moderate + walk will tend to be longer and the route will be over rougher ground.  These are best for regular walkers who are used to the rougher terrain.


Strenuous walks for experienced walkers with a high level of fitness.  Moderate to brisk pace.


Strenuous plus indicate strenuous walks with more climbs and descents.



Do I need to bring anything?

Some walks will indicate that you need to bring a packed lunch.  It is very important to bring plenty to drink.  If you use medication (e.g. for asthma) please don’t forget to bring it with you.  You may also like to bring a camera to capture the wonderful views along your walk. You may need sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, gloves, etc.


Which walks can children do?

Children over the age of 7 are also welcome on the easy and moderate walks if they are accompanied by a responsible adult. They must wear appropriate clothes and footwear.


Are dogs allowed?

The presence of a dog can scatter livestock and cause distress, therefore we cannot allow dogs to be taken on any of the walks.  We regret any disappointment that this may cause.


Dietary requirements

Food is provided on some walks.  It you have any special dietary requirements, please phone 01434 322025 (or tell the staff at Bradsons when booking).


Transport

If it is possible, we arrange for the starting points of walks to be accessible by public transport. Sometimes this is not practical. If you want to come on a walk and have no transport to the starting point, please contact us and we will see if we can arrange a lift for you.


Cancellations

We regret that we are unable to provide a refund if you have to cancel a walk.  We will provide refunds for any walks or activities that we have to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances.  (Be reassured, this is a very rare event.)


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