Frequently Asked Questions


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. You’ll be asked to sign a Walks form - this is for group 3rd party insurance purposes.BACK TO TOP

Where do you meet to start the walks?

The starting point for each walk is published as an OS grid reference in the Walks Program. (Usually on the Ordnance Survey 1:50,000 Sheet 186 or 187). Click on the ‘start map’ link next to the walk for a map. 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 organize linear walks, using trains. In this case, please check with Leader in advance whether the published meeting arrangements are still valid and bring train fare.BACK TO TOP

How do I get to the start of the walk?

Club members are encouraged to meet at the car park at Brewery Road, Woking before a walk to car share for the Sunday walks. Those without cars can usually be picked-up here but this cannot be guaranteed.BACK TO TOP

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. BACK TO TOP

How fit do I have to be?

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. BACK TO TOP

What will it cost me? The walks are free. (If you’re not already a member of the Ramblers Association you’ll be invited to join if you come out regularly.)BACK TO TOP

How fast do you walk?

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 lunchBACK TO TOP

When and How far do you walk?

For exact details see our Walks Program. 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. There is generally a second shorter/easier Sunday walk as well. This may be either an all day walk of 7 – 8 miles, or a morning only walk of 4 – 5 miles. These walks are very suitable for those who like to stroll and talk. We have occasional mid-week morning walks, also of 4 – 5 miles. These are particularly suitable for new members, or those who prefer to take their exercise more gently. Summer programs often feature some 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 program during the summer. We usually have a full day walk on Bank Holidays, and contribute to the various special programs of walks organised by the Ramblers Association.BACK TO TOP

Where do you walk?

Surrey, Sussex, Hampshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire……. The longer Sunday walks on the program 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 program 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 maps 186 and 187 cover the most frequently walked areas.BACK TO TOP

"What do I need to take on the walk?

A sense of humour and determination Good strong boots. The ground we cover can be exceedingly muddy. In the winter, gloves and a hat. Remember that you’ll bein 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.BACK TO TOP