Type of Website: Walking Group

The Category Accessible Walking Groups is a subset of Walking Groups in the UK.

The Category British Walking Federation is a subset of Walking Groups in the UK.

The Category CHA & HF Rambling Clubs is a subset of Walking Groups in the UK.

The Category Christian Walking Groups is a subset of Walking Groups in the UK.

The Category Fell & Hill Walking Groups is a subset of Walking Groups in the UK.

The Category Footpath Associations is a subset of Walking Groups in the UK.

The Category Gay Outdoor Clubs is a subset of Walking Groups in the UK.

The Category Independent Walkers' Clubs is a subset of Walking Groups in the UK.

The Category Long Distance Walkers Association is a subset of Walking Groups in the UK.

The Category Outdoor Groups - Walking is a subset of Walking Groups in the UK.

The Category Ramblers Areas is a subset of Ramblers.

The Category Ramblers is a subset of Walking Groups in the UK.

A number of Ramblers Groups which do NOT (currently) have Records in 'Open Paths and Trails' are referenced in the KEY Entries of the relevant Sections of the EXPLORE categorization. Clicking on a Title of interest therein should link you to the external Website (or Facebook Page) for the chosen Group.

Naturally, as an alternative, details of a Group of interest which does not have a Record in OPT should also be accessible via the Website cited in the Record of the appropriate Ramblers Area; or, of course, by simply accessing the Website of the Ramblers Association itself.

The Category Ulster Federation of Rambling Clubs is a subset of Walking Groups in the UK.

Details of Ulster Federation Clubs described here can be found in the EXPLORE Northern Ireland Category or, naturally, via the Website of the Federation itself.

The Category University of the Third Age is a subset of Walking Groups in the UK.

References to some local individual U3A Groups can be found in the appropriate KEY Records within the EXPLORE Categorization. Clicking on a Title here should link you to a relevant external Website (or Facebook Page.) Or you can simply access the main Website for the U3A itself: The University of the Third Age.

'The British Walking Federation's member clubs organise events designed for people of all ages and abilities.  You don't have to be a member of a club to take part, all you need to do is come to an event and register and take the opportunity to have fun, make friends.'

Permanent Trails Organised by the BWF National Committee

'The Gay Outdoor Club is a members club - no one is paid for their role in it and no-one makes a profit from it. Every member is welcome to play a part in running the club, perhaps by organising an event, by helping to run a group or serving on the committee ... To many of our members, GOC is more than just a walking group - they have found enduring friendships and the opportunity to get out and do events that they otherwise wouldn't have had the chance to.'

'We currently have over 250 clubs affiliated with HF Holidays. From walking clubs to singing groups, they have all joined the community.'

'The LDWA is an Association of people with the common interest of walking long distances in rural, mountainous or moorland areas. By joining the LDWA, you will meet other like-minded long distance walkers and gain access to information on walking events and long distance walking routes all over the UK.'

'OutdoorLads is first and foremost an outdoor activities group. It is designed with gay and bisexual lads in mind to help them enjoy the outdoors, countryside and the pursuits that can be found there, in a friendly, supportive environment ... As an outdoor pursuits group, every month we run a wide range of activities. There’s something for everyone no matter what your interest! ... All over the country people with different ages and backgrounds are joining OutdoorLads – the Group has over 19,500 members and is growing.'

'Find out about the work we do as Britain's walking charity - from maintaining footpaths and campaigning for more access to encouraging more people to take up walking.'

'We created Ramblers Routes – an online library of high-quality walking routes – to give walkers the freedom to walk at their own leisure along safe, inspiring and interesting trails across Britain. Ramblers Routes are designed for walkers by Ramblers volunteers and a unique feature is that any route developed by one volunteer is then checked on the ground by another before it's given our stamp of approval.'

'London and Southeast England based walking and hiking club.'

'Charity that works with communities, policy-makers and partner organisations so that people can choose healthier, cleaner and cheaper journeys and enjoy better, safer spaces to live in. All over the UK, we make a positive difference to people's lives.'

Who can join U3A?: 'Anyone who is no longer in full time employment. We have no other pre-requisites apart from the love of learning. U3As neither require nor award any qualifications. There is also the chance to make new friends and explore new areas of interest.'

'Because of its geographical size the Region has divided itself into five County Networks of U3As: [1] Derbyshire - - - : [2] Leicestershire & Rutland - - - : [3] Lincolnshire - - - : [4] Northamptonshire - - - : [5] Nottinghamshire.'

'Our region includes the six counties of Norfolk, Suffolk, Essex, Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire. We are a very diverse region, from isolated rural villages to city metropolis, from agriculture to service industry, manufacturing to technology and the people are excitingly diverse too. We have 6 Universities within our region including Cambridge, Anglia Ruskin, Essex, Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and East Anglia.'

U3A Regions

'Our Region includes the counties of Cheshire, Cumbria, and Lancashire plus the Metropolitan Boroughs within Greater Manchester and Merseyside and all contiguous Unitary Authorities.'

U3A Regions

'There are now 23 different U3As in Northern Ireland with around 6,000 members ... To find the nearest U3A to you check the Find a U3A page.' (Note that this Website can have a rather slow response.)

U3A Regions

'There are 46 local U3As in the Northumbria Region which includes Northumberland, County Durham and part of North Yorkshire.'

U3A Regions

'U3A in Scotland is an umbrella group for all U3As within Scotland, providing help and advice for new U3As, and encouraging the exchange of information and ideas between member U3As. There are currently over 7,000 members in 44 U3As in Scotland, from Shetland to the Borders, from west coast islands to east coast cities, from central belt bustle to quiet Highland towns.'

U3A Regions

'Includes Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hampshire, Kent, Oxfordshire, Surrey, Sussex and the Isle of Wight.'

'Covers the counties of Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and Gloucester, and so is the largest geographical Region in England.'

U3A Regions

The 'Map shows the London Boroughs not necessarily the London U3As. In most but not all cases the two coincide. London U3As are listed on the Our U3As page'.

U3A Regions

'Wales U3A is not a U3A. It is simply a Website which lists all the ... Welsh U3As ... with links to their own Websites so existing and prospective U3A members can see what individual U3As have to offer.'

U3A Regions

'Our Region includes the six counties of Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, West Midlands, Worcestershire and Herefordshire, along with all unitary authorities contained therein. We are a very diverse region, from isolated rural village to city metropolis, from agriculture to service industry, manufacturing to technology and the people are excitingly diverse too.'

Information about over forty Local Groups throughout the Region - the majority of which have their own Website Pages.

U3A Regions

'The Ulster Federation of Rambling Clubs (UFRC) is the Governing body for Rambling and Hill-Walking Clubs in the North of Ireland.'

'Formed in 1971, the Abbots Bromley Footpath Society exists to promote the use of Rights of Way in Abbots Bromley and the surrounding parishes. Since then the Society has been responsible for the re-opening of many paths in the area by clearing undergrowth and erecting stiles and bridges.'

'The Club is one of the oldest in the Aberdeen area, being formed in the 1940s by staff of the then nationalised telephone service.  The Club has a very broad membership from all walks of life and is open for anyone to join. – join the club and make new friends – enjoy the freedom of the Scottish Highlands – come along to a selection of social events throughout the year – travel in comfort in a luxury coach – be involved and suggest your favourite walks on line ...'

'Founded in 1913 we have a current membership of more than fifty.'

The Club for Hillwalkers, Ramblers and Amblers  'We are a "not for profit" organisation with very modest membership fees whose objective is "to encourage the appreciation, conservation and enjoyment of the countryside". Please explore the site and the Facebook page to find out more about us and the countryside walks and other activities that we can offer you.'

'Our Group was formed in April 1976, in mid-Derbyshire, and now has 210+ members, from a wide variety of backgrounds and age groups, but all with a common love of the countryside ... Walks are in all parts of Derbyshire and Staffordshire, and it will be noted from our programme that we also go away for long week ends twice a year to places such as Devon, the Lake District, Wales, and Northumbria. Members have also tackled the Three Peaks of Yorkshire and walked the Pennine Way in the past.'

'Series walks are designed so that they may be completed at your own pace.  We do not all go out together in one big group but each walker has a copy of the route and is able to start at any time and walk at their own speed.  This has the advantage that quicker walkers are not held up by a slower pace, and vice-versa.  It does not mean that walkers go off by themselves as there is always a group that will walk at your own pace.'

'The Club was formed in May 1978 by a group of workers at the BICC factory in Leigh. Although any link with BICC was broken a long time ago, the name "Anchor" comes from that connection with "Anchor Cables". The purpose of the club is to provide an opportunity for people to enjoy rambling in a safe and enjoyable environment.'

'We are a lively, local, independent walking club, founded in 1953, based in the Arrow Valley, Worcestershire, with a membership of around 100, mainly from The Redditch, Bromsgrove and South Birmingham areas.'

'Our group is centred around Worthing, close to the South Downs National Park. Our walks range from Chichester to Eastbourne, with many local ones.'

'The Club was formed in 1931 and caters for all ages and walking abilities. Over the years it has grown to a membership of 200 approximately, with a variety of walks graded, strolling, easy & moderate / strenuous.'

'Aycliffe Fell walking Club is based in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham (near Darlington in the North East of England) and is open to everyone interested in fell walking or rambling. It caters for walkers of all abilities and ages. It became Aycliffe Fellwalking Club in 2011.'

'We are a friendly, informal group with nearly 300 members ... Join us for great walks in the Aylesbury area ... We organise about 120 walks a year, suitable for all abilities. Everything from 4 to 14 miles. Some are leisurely, some strenuous, but most are somewhere in between. So, why not give us a try?'

'Walking in Northern Ireland and beyond for over 35 years.'

The Website includes access to about thirty Route Maps for 'Barnard Castle Circular Walks' around and about Barnard Castle.

'Established in 1930, and currently has over 350 members. A private coach is operated every Sunday to deliver members into the heart of the English Lake District. Members are offered a choice of 3 walks to suit their own capabilities ...'

'We are an independent friendly group of people who enjoy walking and will always offer you a warm welcome. We are based in the Basildon Borough Council area, but have numerous members from Chelmsford, Brentwood and Southend areas.'

'We have two regular Sunday walks, each usually of about 5/6 and 10/12 miles and some midweek walks during the day or in the evening in the summer. Non-members are most welcome to come on rambles. After two walks we would invite you to join the Ramblers’ Association.'

'Aimed at people in their 20s to 40s who enjoy walking, outdoor activities, and mixing with like minded individuals.'

'We walk every Saturday (except for holidays). We nearly always use public transport. Our club is especially suitable for over-50s. The walks are not too strenuous. We go to places all over Northern Ireland ... '

'We walk on Saturday afternoons ... Walks start at 2pm ... We travel by sharing cars to the start of the walk ... Walks are tailored according to each walker's ability ... Members are in the over 50 age range ... Walks vary from 3 – 5 miles.'

'The Club was formed in July 1983 with the following aims: [1] To provide a programme of organised walks - - - : [2] To secure and maintain the right to walk in the countryside, on public paths, mountain tracks and open moorland - - - : [3] To encourage recreational walking and the appreciation of the countryside - - - : [4] To help protect the natural beauty from despoliation.

'The Berkshire & Mid Thames Group generally walk on the 3rd Sunday of each month and the 1st Saturday evening from May to September.'

'Our walking and social group is aimed at people in their 20s and 30s and is part of the Ramblers Association. We are based in Berkshire, mainly around Reading, Newbury and Slough and provide walks at a variety of lengths on weekends and summers evenings.'

'We are a small friendly group based in beautiful Clydesdale, with the Pentlands, the Border hills and the Lowthers right on the doorstep and within easy reach of the Galloway Hills and the southern Highlands.'

'We have published several booklets recommending walks on circular and linear routes, and are currently working on a project to produce more of these walks in a widening circle of up to an 8-mile radius around town.  We also publish monthly walks on our website.'

'The group is aimed at getting people in their 20's, 30's and 40s who live in Dudley, Wolverhampton, Walsall, Sandwell and the surrounding area, out walking in their local Countryside and further afield. We organise day walks, evening walks and weekends away as well as socials in pubs and restaurants.'

'If you are interested in invigorating walks through the stunning countryside surrounding London, with a friendly bunch of people from all walks of life, then this is the group for you. Blackheath Ramblers strike out in all weathers and conditions, through frosted forests and muddy fields, into sun-dappled woods carpeted with bluebells and wild garlic, across wind-swept ridges and over sun-drenched downs, visiting medieval churches and picturesque villages along the way ... '

'If you are a visitor we do hope that you will consider joining us on one of our Sunday walks and hopefully then join us to enjoy the benefits of full membership.'

'We are a small, friendly group of people who enjoy walking in the West Sussex countryside'

'Founded in 1905 the Club celebrated its Centenary in 2005. We're very active and we extend a warm welcome to all walkers and lovers of the countryside ... We have members of all ages and from a range of backgrounds. For a modest annual fee you can enjoy all the hidden delights of rural Lancashire and beyond the best way there is, on foot!'

'BOOTS offers people living in the Aberdeenshire area and their friends and visitors the means of organising access to the hills in the company of others with a similar interest in hillwalking.'

'Founded in the year 1970 ... We are a lively, friendly and broad-age range group and you're very welcome to try walking with us, or to get involved in looking after paths and green spaces and opening up new places to explore.'

'Scenic Sunday rambles of 8-10 miles throughout the year in the beautiful countryside and on the coast. Convenient coach transport to and from these walks, and at the lunchtime stop. Wednesday walks of 4-8 miles throughout the year, usually accessible with public transport.'

'We are into walking, dining out, theatre, cinema, country pubs, barbecues, making friends and socialising. The group was called the Bournemouth Boghoppers 25 years ago when we took over from the original S.E. Dorset YHA Group. The nickname has stuck and has become our official title. We have no fixed age range but most of the members are in their forties, fifties & early sixties. We aim to have regular Sunday walks in the Purbecks, across Dorset and the New Forest. Please note that this group does not allow dogs on the walks. The walks are usually 7 to 10 miles. But we are not all about walking; we are very much a social group as well.'

'Without doubt Bradford CHA Rambling and Social Club is one of the most successful Rambling Clubs in Britain. One does not need to look far to understand why the club is so successful.  I believe the reason is because of the effort put into the Club by so many people, past and present, giving their time freely and without asking for reward ...'

'Formed in 2004 with the encouragement of the Parish Council Committee to promote the enjoyment of the Public Rights of Way in the Parish and to monitor their maintenance. There are 37 Rights of Way in the Parish totalling over 21 miles ... In 2007, using a grant from the Parish Paths Partnership and a donation from Glaxo Smith Kline, the Paths Group produced a map leaflet showing the public rights of way in the parish and four suggested walks.'

'We are a walking and social group based in Brighton and Hove with over six hundred members. Many of our new members are in their 30's, 40's and 50's. We have two active groups which are loosely based on age: 30s-50s - mainly walkers in their thirties, forties and fifties;  All ages - many members are retired'

'The Club aims to provide, good company and opportunities for the healthy enjoyments of the countryside walking in Sussex.'

'The Walking Group is a friendly mixed group of men and women ... '

'Bristol HF Rambling Club walks take advantage of wonderful local walking countryside within a radius of about 40 miles from Bristol, encompassing the Mendips, the Cotswolds and the Wye Valley. Members are offered the opportunity to lead a walk, but this is not essential.'

'One of the largest walking groups in the country. We arrange around 300 walks each year, ranging from short to long, from rural to urban.'

'The BMC is uniquely placed in being both a representative body for climbers, hill walkers and mountaineers as well as an outdoor environmental campaigning organisation.'

'Brown Clee Walkers are an informal group from the various parishes around the hill, with the majority living in Ditton Priors. Our activities include a monthly walk, of normally up to 10 miles, with a generous lunch stop, usually at a convenient pub. The average turnout is around 12-15 persons.'

'We are a unique club for young(ish) people in Bristol & Bath who love getting outside on the weekend, enjoying our fantastic countryside and meeting like-minded people.'

Brunel Walking Group 40+

'Leisurely walking group catering for older walkers who wish to enjoy a stroll through the countryside on a weekly basis. They meet each Thursday at 10am and each walk takes about 2 hours.  About once a month the walk is in the Parish of Bugbrooke but on other occasions a short car journey is taken to surrounding villages with the walk starting and finishing from the agreed parking place. '

'There are several walking groups in this area, so why join us the Burnley & Pendle Group? Well we put on a great programme of walks led by experienced leaders who can advise the best walks for your level of fitness, and we have a great programme of social events. You can come on three free taster walks with us.'

'To provide healthy enjoyment of leisure and to encourage love of open air and promote social friendship. All members are asked to support events and walks arranged for their enjoyment.'

'With the incorporation of the Watford Fieldpath Association, the BADFA area greatly increased. It now is roughly bounded by Borehamwood, Harrow, Rickmansworth, Chenies, Chesham, Berkhamsted, Hemel Hempstead, St Albans, Radlett; but focuses mainly on Bushey, Aldenham, Watford, and Watford Rural "parishes".'

'We are a walking group based in Caithness. Most of our walks are done in Caithness and sometimes in Sutherland. Now and again we even go further afield if we fancy doing some hills or walks which have been recommended.'

'Calstock Parish stretches from Gunnislake in the east to the bounds of Kit Hill. There are 40 Public Rights of Way identified by standards set by Cornwall Council who classify county paths as Gold, Silver and Bronze. It is significant that all parish paths are Gold with only one classified as Silver. Many of the paths are rich in industrial heritage, provide magnificent views of countryside and the Tamar with links to woodland and quiet lanes and roads.'

'The Calvert Trust enables people with disabilities, together with their families and friends, to achieve their potential through the challenge of outdoor adventure in the countryside.'

'Our walks are typically in Cambridgeshire and neighbouring counties. We normally walk on most Saturdays and many Mondays.'

'There's no need to sign up in advance for the vast majority of our walks - to join a particular ramble, just turn up at the time and place indicated on the termcard! ... University staff, former students, Anglia Ruskin students and people completely unconnected to the university are all very welcome! While the majority of our members are current Cambridge University students, we do have several regular members who are not.'

Cambridge University Hillwalking Club

'The Cambridgeshire Group generally walk on the 1st Sunday of each month. We're a friendly group and always look forward to seeing a new friend joining us. Sometimes a new friend may be nervous being their first time along, but everyone will be welcoming and you'll soon be at ease ...'

'As the name implies this club runs I.V.V. accredited permanent trails (year rounds) in the capital cities of England Wales and Scotland: [1] Westminster . . . : [2] Cardiff - - - : [3] Edinburgh City - - - : [4] Edinburgh Britannia ... All city trails are easily accessible by public transport, they all either start and finish at a rail or Underground station which have good week and week-end services.'

'Capital Walkers was set up by Londoners who love getting out into the countryside as well as the lesser known parts of the city. The group is aimed at people aged 35-55. Everyone is welcome: you don't need to be a member to try us out and most walks have at least one new person on them. If you decide to take part, just turn up on a walk, there's no need to book ... '

'The club was formed in 1926. The programme is sent out twice a year with a planned walk on virtually every Saturday throughout the year. Additionally we walk on some of the bank holidays and have a Tuesday walk once a month.'

'A local walking group organising weekend walks and weekends away throughout South Wales and beyond. We have a varied programme, offering something for everyone from the committed enthusiast to the absolute beginner.'

'We organise walks in the south Wales area and beyond, including the Brecon Beacons, Black Mountains, Gower, Wye Valley and elsewhere. Walks vary from 2 to 20 miles - mainly on Wednesdays and weekends, but also include Friday strolls, summer Thursday evenings and other times ... There is no charge for non-members to join our walks - we expect you to join if you take part regularly. Joining helps to further the aims of the Ramblers.'

'Leisurely walks, gentle fells, hills and mountains in the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, the Borders and Northumberland, there's something for everyone in our friendly club. New members always welcome, come and join us.'

'We walk every Sunday of the year. Walks are usually between 7 to 10 miles in length and can be anywhere within the Midland Counties. Very occasionally the walk may be on a Saturday and utilise public transport to get to the start of the walk and return ... Visitors to the area are welcome to join us on our walks. For further information please send an e-mail .... '

'Cedars Walking Group is based at the Jethro Centre Lurgan and is aimed exclusively at walkers over the age of 50. We have more than 100 members and regularly have 50 or 60 members on our walks which are led by trained and experienced walk group leaders ... We are limited in the number of members we can accept because of the practicalities of walking with larger groups - parking, group management and availability of leaders. There is usually a waiting list at the start of the new season but applicants who are unsuccessful at the September intake will be reconsidered for membership in January the following year. Don't expect to get a place on first application but don't let that deter you from walking - it's a great way to keep healthy.'

'We are a walking group for people living in and around London who enjoy getting out and enjoying our great countryside.'