HOW WILL I KNOW IF AN EVENT IS SUITABLE FOR ME?

Please check with the organiser if you’re unsure. Consider the details about the demands of the event given by them and be honest with yourself about your own abilities.

We want you to have an enjoyable experience and we also have to consider the safety of our other members, so please find out as much as you can before you make a decision.

DO I NEED TO LET THE ORGANISER KNOW THAT I’LL BE ATTENDING AN EVENT?

Some events must be booked in advance via the event organiser, especially meals, theatre trips and so on.

For events where it is not essential to book, it is a very good idea to let the organiser know that you’ll be attending an event because they can then confirm the event details with you and let you know of any last minute changes. This is particularly important if you are not yet receiving the group e-mails.

DO I HAVE TO PAY TO ATTEND AN EVENT IF I’M NOT A MEMBER?

No. We encourage prospective new members to come along to a couple of events so that they can meet some of the group, try out the activities and decide whether to join.

CAN I BRING MY CHILDREN ALONG?

Please check with the organiser first – some events may not be suitable for families. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.

CAN I BRING A FRIEND/GUEST ALONG?

For a local day or evening event, yes. Many members were initially introduced to the group through friends. However, friends/guests cannot come on overnight trips with the group.

CAN I BRING MY DOG ON A WALK?

Dogs are usually welcome but please check with the organiser first. Some walks go through nature reserves or other areas where dogs may not be allowed, and almost all walks pass through farm land where stock may be grazing.

All dogs must be kept under proper control for the entire walk. Dog owners are responsible for complying with this rule at all times.

The only exception is if a herd of large animals become disturbed by the dog, in which case you are advised to let the dog go for your own safety and the safety of other members of the group.

Please remember to bring water for your dog to drink and the necessary kit to clean up after your pet.

CAN I GET A LIFT TO THE EVENT?

It is often possible to organise a lift to the start point for an event.

If you are already on the group e-mail list, please send an e-mail asking if anyone can give you a lift. If you are not yet on the group email list, you can ask the event organiser to post a request on your behalf.

However, please note that it is not the event organiser’s responsibility to organise lifts for potential participants and there is no guarantee that a lift will be available for every event.

It is also up to you to agree arrangements regarding fuel costs and to satisfy yourself over any other concerns you may have, such as insurance for the vehicle concerned.

DO YOU STOP FOR FOOD AND DRINK BREAKS ON WALKS AND CYCLE RIDES?

Yes. How often will depend on the type and length of the event, and the weather. Sometimes we carry packed lunches and sometimes we stop at pubs, cafes, or tea shops en route. Check the details on the programme, and contact the event organiser for more details if you have any doubts.

For most outdoor events, it’s essential to bring enough water or some other non-alcoholic drink to keep you going through the day, especially when the weather is warm.