Picking The Route

The first thing you need to do to organise a walk is to pick a route. You could use a favourite walk, get a route from a book or recycle a walk you have attended with another group. Alternatively, you can try making up your own route. The OS 1:25,000 maps are available from Streetmap and Bing maps. Details of permissive paths are available from Natural England/Defra

Points to consider when picking the route are

  • the length and timing of the walk - can you complete the walk in daylight?
  • will the walk be linear or circular
  • the terrain - ascents and descents and condition of paths
  • the season - what is the weather likely to be on your walk?
  • is suitable parking available? Do you need to get permission to park?
  • will you be stopping for lunch? Picnic or pub lunch?
  • are there any toilet facilities on the route?
  • is the route all on definitive paths or have you obtained permission from the landowner?

You should make sure your first few walks are not too long or complicated. Try to get the OS Explorer map (with an orange front) which covers your walk – you may need more than one. If you don't have the relevant map yourself you may be able to borrow it from another member of the group.

If possible, try to find a start point that is on public transport. You could also try organising a lift share meeting point.