Formed in 1926, the Oxford Fieldpaths Society (OFS) is one of the UK's oldest walking groups. The society was formed to protect the footpaths, bridlepaths and commons in the neighbourhood of Oxford, ensuring that they do not fall out of use and be forgotten.
Perhaps the best known activity of the Oxford Fieldpaths Society is the organisation of a programme of walks. Typically ranging in distance from three to twelve miles, and gentle to moderate in pace (approximately 2-2.5 miles per hour) these walks are a delightful way to share with others an enjoyment of the varied Oxfordshire countryside - including the Chilterns, the Cotswolds, the Downs and the Thames - through the changing seasons.
Led by volunteers, walks are held on Saturdays or Sundays and also midweek. Some last for just the morning or the afternoon, others the whole day, with a break for a pub or picnic lunch. A series of evening walks is arranged in the summer in and around Oxford, and the annual day walk, which takes place outside Oxfordshire, usually in September, is a popular event.
The society also organises longer residential walking holidays, social events, such as skittles, and is starting a programme assisting the County Council in surveying and maintaining the County's paths. The society is extensively involved in the process of diversions and closures of rights of way, opposing and suggesting better alternatives where necessary.
Non-members are welcome to go on a walk but are encouraged to join. A membership form can be downloaded or obtained from walks leaders.
For general enquiries, please contact enquiries@ofs.org.uk.