Do I need to book a walk in advance?
No - just get to the start by the published time and make yourself known to the leader.
Where do you meet to start the walks?
The starting point for each walk is published in the Walks Programme together with the relevant grid reference and OS Explorer Map (1:25000). You can either make your own way directly there, or alternatively for Sunday walks there may be a suggested time to meet for car-sharing/lifts. If in doubt, phone the walk leader. Occasionally we organise linear walks, using trains. In this case, please check with the leader in advance whether the published meeting arrangements are still valid and bring train fare.
How do I get to the start of the walk?
Club members are encouraged to share cars, which makes economic and environmental sense. Some walks, particularly on Sundays have a car share arranged starting either from Horsell Rise or the car park on Pyrford Common. These car shares are shown on the Walks Programme . As they operate on an entirely voluntary basis they cannot be guaranteed, so it may be wise to check with the walk leader beforehand. And many people get together and share cars on an informal basis – after all with the present cost of fuel, it makes sense to share costs.
Are the walks suitable for children?
Because of the distance/stiles/etc the Sunday walks are usually not recommended for very young children. But if in doubt, contact the leader for advice.
If you’re not sure if you’re fit enough don’t worry! Come along on one of our shorter walks and see how you go. If you've no worries on that score, come and try one of our all-day walks. As a group we’re a mix of abilities (mega-fit to decidedly flabby) and ages (mid-20s to mid-70s), and we put on a wide variety of walks to cater for all levels. Some race up the hills, others plod and use the excuse of ‘View Stops’ to catch their breath. All are welcome.
What will it cost me? The walks are free. (If you’re not already a member of the Ramblers you’ll be invited to join if you come out regularly.)
As a rule of thumb we cover 2 ½ miles per hour, allowing for breaks. (Slower up hills!). Stops are at the leader’s discretion, but usually consist of a 15 minute coffee stop mid-morning and mid-afternoon, and a 45 minute picnic lunch.
For exact details see our Walks Programme. This is updated 3 times a year. Unless the Walks Programme indicates otherwise Walks are circular, all day, and start at 10 am. There is always an all day walk each Sunday, ranging from 10 - 16 miles. Usually it starts at 10 am, finishes between 4 - 5 pm and is aimed at those who prefer more vigorous exercise. . We often have mid-week morning walks, of 4 – 5 miles. These are particularly suitable for new members, or those who prefer to take their exercise more gently. Summer programmes occasionally feature easy local evening walks, starting at 7.15pm and lasting no more than 5 miles. These are only feasible during the lighter evenings, so check the programme during the summer. We usually have a full day walk on Bank Holidays, and contribute to the various special programmes of walks organised by the Ramblers .
Surrey, Sussex, Hampshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire……. The longer Sunday walks on the programme normally involve a 30-45 minute drive from Woking, and range from the open vistas of the South Downs to the tow-paths of the Wey Navigation canal. We try to arrange the programme so no driving after dark is required, so the winter walks are usually closer to home. The alternative shorter walks are closer to Woking generally no more than 20 minutes drive. For example, starting from Chobham, Guildford or Gomshall. OS Explorer maps 145 , 146 and 160 cover the most frequently walked areas.
What do I need to take on the walk?
A sense of humour and determination. Good footwear. The ground we cover can be exceedingly muddy. In the winter, gloves and a hat. Remember that you’ll be in the open air for up to 6 hours. You’ll also find that after having scrambled over stiles, plodded across ploughed fields, and bumbled down bridle paths that you’ll be rather grubby. So make sure it’s easily washable. A spare pair of socks (useful when you’ve forgotten your gloves) Something dry to sit-on at lunch time/coffee break . Plastic shopping bags work well, and you can put your boots in them at the end. Food. Although our lunch stop is usually close to a pub there’s no guarantee that there’ll be food available. Drink. For winter a thermos with a hot drink. Especially during the hotter weather you should carry plenty of liquid with you.Tissues.For some reason walking makes the nose run! A small rucksack should hold all your needs for a full day's walk. Line it with a plastic bag to keep the innards dry. Oh, and don't forget the kitchen sink.