About Social Walks


What is a Social Walk?
A social walk is a group walk solely for the enjoyment of members as a social event, and will be led by one of the group. A social walk is the opportunity to meet and chat with group members, so do come along and try one. We have a wide range of interests including beer, bell ringing, boats and ukuleles.

What happens on a Social Walk?
We usually have walks on alternate Thursdays, starting at 0930, and 2 or 3 walks each month on a Saturday or Sunday, starting at 0900.  Please note that we will start promptly, but if you let the walk leader know you are delayed, of course we will wait for you.

The overall pace is about 2½-3 mph, including stops.  We stop for about 10 minutes in the morning and afternoon for tea/coffee, and 30 minutes at lunchtime. Sometimes we’ll stop near a pub at lunchtime for a drink but not to order food.  Unless the walk details says otherwise, you’ll need to bring food and drink for the day.  If the walk details are unclear, please ask the leader. Their contact details will be on the website. Typically Thursday walks are 15 miles; weekend walks are around 18/20 miles, often a bit shorter in the middle of winter, but the walk description will tell you how long it is.

I've never walked twenty miles before. How will I cope?
Most reasonably fit people can walk twenty miles. You may be a bit stiff the following day and find it a bit tough the first time, but after a few goes it will become easy. We want you to enjoy the walk and come back again, not to think at the end "I’m not doing that again!"

Is everyone super fit?
Definitely not.  Many people have walked with The Ramblers, and want to walk a bit further or faster. Some used to be super fit but have slowed down with age or injury.

Will I be left behind?
Definitely not. The leader will know how many are on the walk. There will usually be a backmarker, and we always wait for slower walkers to catch up.

What about the weather?
Our walks generally take place whatever the weather. The leader will adjust the route to the prevailing conditions.
BUT in the event of bad weather or the forecast of bad weather the cancellation of a walk will be confirmed the previous evening on Facebook, by email and in Stop Press in the Event details on the website. Please check for updated information. Otherwise, In the event of bad weather, please contact the leader before you travel.

Is there a charge?
No. All social walks are free.
If you’re not already a member of the LDWA, come and join us for a few walks before joining.  Once you join the LDWA, and you live in our area,  you are automatically a member of BBN.

Do I need to phone beforehand?
No, simply come along on the day, but do email/phone the leader if you have any questions,