Although the majority of our day walks involve walking over gently rolling countryside, the level of gear or kit that you take out with you should be based on the weather turning foul. Keep an eye out for the forecast. Also - there are a few important points to note:

BEFORE YOU GO: 

Clothing and equipment: Depending on difficulty and seasonality  - RED ITEMS ARE MOST IMPORTANT

  • Water, Packed Lunch

  • Comfortable walking boots

  • Walking trousers - NOT JEANS

  • A suitable rucksack or backpack 

  • Waterproof jacket & over trousers 

  • Warm clothing-plenty of layers

  • Gloves, Hat, Scarf

  • Whistle & Torch

  • Emergency Survival Bag

We walk in all  weather and seasons. Some of the above are seasonal and depend on walk difficulty. Move further down the list as weather conditions worsen, or walk difficulty increases. The items in RED are fundamental requirements, however.

Common Sense is, of course, advised.

Bring a packed lunch: - although there may be pub stops, it is unlikely that there will be time to eat at pubs, as the pubs may be very busy, or there may be a large group walking.

ON WALKS: 

  • DO Follow the Countryside Code

  • PLEASE DO inform the Walks Leader IMMEDIATELY and in person of ANY problems on the walk. Please help us to help you - if we are not made aware of a situation, there is nothing we can do :o(

  • DO listen carefully to the Walk Leader's introduction and any instructions.

  • If you have any questions or queries, please DO speak up.

  • DO NOT walk ahead of the Walk Leader.

  • Many walks are 'day walks' intended to have a duration of over 4-5 hours. If you have a pressing engagement after the walk, check before starting the walk that the walk finishes in good time. DO NOT walk off to return to the car or train station without informing the Walk Leader in person, as this might trigger an unnecessary search.

WALK RATINGS: CLICK TO FIND OUT MORE

DOGS: Dogs are welcome, as long as they travel in the owner's car, and kept under control and on a leash as and when appropriate. For train walks, please refer to the relevant Train Operating Company's policy.

DISCLAIMER: Everybody who walks with MAD Walkers does so at their own risk. That is not to say we only do gruelling treks for the fitness elite nor walk in unsafe areas. Check out the programme to see the variety on offer. We aim to cater for all! However, the outdoors can be challenging and potentially dangerous, we as part of a charity cannot accept responsibility for the safety of people on our walks nor weekends away. Talk to the walks leaders or email us for further friendly advice.