What should I bring on a walk?
Have a look at our walks section for what clothing and equipment you should bring. A waterproof coat and sturdy walking boots/shoes are essential. You should also bring a packed lunch and plenty of drinking water.
Consider bringing a set of spare clothes and footwear in case you get very muddy or wet and need to get changed at the end of the walk. These can be left in the car if you travel in or someone else’s car if you have agreed this in advance.
Most walks end with a relaxing drink in a nearby pub so you might like to bring some money with you!
How long and hard are walks?
It varies. The shortest walks are 5-7 miles on fairly easy terrain and only take 2-3 hours. Longer walks are 10-16 miles in hilly terrain and take all day. It is important that you contact the walk leader first if you are unaware of a walk’s distance or difficulty level or are unsure of your ability to complete a walk.
Do I have to pay to come on a walk?
There is no charge to come on a walk other than your annual Rambler’s membership fee when you first join.
Who leads walks?
Walk leaders are just general group members who have planned a route and want to lead a walk. They are not professionals and any member is free to lead a walk.
How do I find out about walks?
Once you have joined the group you will be added to our mailing list and be able to send and receive e-mails to and from the rest of the group. You will also be given access to the members’ Facebook page which hosts our walk calendar.
Do you allow dogs on a walk?
Dogs are only allowed on a walk at the discretion of the walk leader: it is rare for people to bring a dog on walks. Some walks are simply not suitable for dogs so you should contact the walk leader before bringing a dog on any walk. We do not allow dogs at all on any walk that crosses farmland where there is livestock. It is up to the owner to keep the dog under control at all times.
If you still insist on bringing your dog and have confirmed that it is OK to do so with the walk leader please follow the rules below.
The Countryside Code – Keep dogs under effective control
How do I get to the start of walks?
Members are responsible for transporting themselves to the start of walks. This usually means driving although some walks can be accessed by public transport. Members without cars often e-mail the group to request a lift and car sharing is encouraged. There is no group hired bus as with some other walking groups.
Can I come on a trial walk before joining?
You are welcome to join us for 2 walks while you decide if you want to join. See How to join for more information.
What is the age range of members?
Northumbria Walking Group is for people who are young (or young at heart!) who like walking or would like to get into it. Our activities are targeted at people in the 20’s – 30’s age group but some members are in their 40’s and 50’s and we do not exclude anyone on the grounds of their age.