What clothing and equipment do I need?
Please wear a pair of stout walking shoes or
boots, and have waterproofs and a drink with you. Denim jeans
and trainers are not suitable walking attire. The Ramblers website
offers excellent practical advice on clothing, equipment and safety.
The secret to enjoying walking is being comfortable. In addition
to the usual gear, consider bringing along a mat or plastic sheet
to sit on at lunchtime.
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Essential
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Walking boots, waterproof jacket with hood,
waterproof overtrousers, and a small (20-25L) rucksack containing
a packed lunch, a bottle of water (and a thermos flask if
you want to take a hot drink), a first aid kit and a whistle.
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Recommended
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Wicking (synthetic fibre) shirt, polycotton
or synthetic fibre trousers, fleece/pullover, thick synthetic/wool
mix socks, liner socks, hat, gloves, gaiters, walking pole(s),
sit mat, rucksack liner/black bin bag, sunglasses, sunscreen and
insect repellent.
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Optional
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Map, compass, map case, GPS, camera and binoculars.
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How do I join in a walk?
Just turn up at the meeting point at the appropriate
time and introduce yourself to the walk leader who will look after
you.
What if I haven't got a car?
Don't worry, lifts are always available from
the meeting point. Passengers are asked to make a voluntary contribution
towards the cost of petrol. Don't forget to bring a spare pair
of shoes with you to leave in the car so you can change out of
your muddy boots at the end of the walk.
Do I need to bring food with me?
Bring a picnic lunch with you. We occasionally
stop at a pub at lunchtime, but only for about half an hour.
Why do you only stop at pubs occasionally?
It is left entirely up to walk leaders to decide
when and where morning, lunch and afternoon breaks take place.
Any member can lead a walk, so if you like pub stops, perhaps
you might consider leading the occasional walk.
Who decides where and when the group walks?
The individual members decide where, how far,
and on which date they want to lead a walk. They then offer the
details to our programme secretary for inclusion in the next walking
programme.
Must I walk with the group every week?
No. Members can choose to walk all, most, some
or none of the walks in the programme. Many of our members do
not walk, choosing instead to support the aims of the Ramblers just by being a member.
Can I walk with other groups and still be
a member of my group?
Yes. Members can walk with any Ramblers group
at anytime. If you find that your group no longer meets your needs,
you can always transfer your membership to another group.
Do I need to bring a map with me?
 No.
The walk leader will have the necessary map(s). By all means bring
one along if you wish. Most of us like to have some idea of where
we have been and where we are going.
Are dogs allowed on walks?
Owners are advised to contact the walk leader
before bringing their dog(s) along. The law says that dog owners
are responsible for ensuring that their dogs are kept under control
at all times, even well behaved dogs. Dogs must be kept on a lead
when walking in fields containing livestock.
What do I do if I find a problem with a
path?
Please fill in the problem
reporting form. Copies are also available from the walk leader,
the Footpath Secretary and members of the committee.
Where can I find more information?
 If
you have any more questions about walking or the work of the Ramblers, you are likely to find the answers in their Walking
For You booklet.
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