F.A.Q.

What types of walks are available

How are the walks graded

How many people go on the walks

Meeting for the walk

Finding the meeting point

Parking at the rendezvous

What to wear on Walks

What to bring on Walks

Conduct on Walks

Home Page | Northern Link Section | NL Walking

Last Updated: 27 May 2010 15:40

Type of walks
Our walks are invariably scenic and range from flat leisurely strolls by canals or reservoirs to arduous treks over wild moors and high mountains. Whatever your preference is though never be put off by the weather as it often turns out better than you think and remember that friendships can be forged even in the rain. Most walks finish around 4 to 5pm and many people get together in the pub after for a drink and sometimes a meal.

How walks are graded
As the walks are intended primarily as a social function a high level of fitness is not required. In our lists of events a simple description of the terrain is given against each walk.
"Easy" means hardly any hills or stiles.
"Relatively Easy" means that some hills and stiles will be encountered.
"Moderate" invariably means hilly.
"Moderate to Strenuous" cover walks over steep hills with some rough terrain.
"Strenuous" covers very steep or rough terrain including mountains.
These definitions do not relate to the length of a walk, this is always given separately. Anyone in any doubt about their own ability to manage a walk in question should check exactly what is involved by telephoning the walk leader or coordinator beforehand but please do not ask them to assess or judge your capabilities, only you can do that.

How many people go
New Members often ask how many people do you get on a Link walk? The answer lies somewhere between 1 and 100 depending on the weather prospects and location. The most popular walks are the shorter ones close to home but moderate to strenuous ones can attract large numbers on good days.

Meeting for the walk
It is not necessary to book your place on a walk, just turn up on the day. The walks usually go ahead whatever the weather so the Leader will always be there to meet you. Find out who the walk leader is and tell them its your first time so that they can make you welcome and introduce you. Don't be shy of approaching people, start talking to them and you will soon feel at home.

Finding the meeting point
Directions given in the programme are usually adequate but if you need further help telephone the leader. Also, if the road conditions or weather forecast is exceptionally bad it is advisable to speak with the Leader beforehand to see if the walk is still on or whether plans have been changed. Mobile phone numbers are often provided but remember that in hilly or mountainous areas there may be no signal. If you are late in arriving do not expect the walk to be delayed. Generally a five or ten minute period of grace is all that can be spared.

What to wear on Walks
When joining one of our walks you must wear suitable footwear and clothing for the conditions. This invariably means stout walking boots and waterproofs.

What to bring on walks
On full or part day walks always bring a packed lunch unless stated otherwise. Do not rely on there being a pub stop or tea-shop during the walk where you can obtain food and drinks. It is particularly vital to carry enough fluids with you as dehydration can be a serious inconvenience to yourself and your companions.
On walks over hills it is recommended you also carry, a survival bag/blanket, whistle, map of the area and a compass.

Parking at the Rendezvous
The organisers of walks try to start them from good sized car parks but space is often at a premium when a Link walk arrives in town so do not take up un-necessary space. Get as close to the next vehicle as is practicable and if necessary double-park with people on the same walk.

Conduct
The Walk Leaders receive no payment or expenses for their services. They are volunteers who enjoy doing it purely in the interests of friendship. Nevertheless please respect their leadership status, be courteous and do as they ask. There is a Golden Rule "to never get in front of the Leader," you might go the wrong way or be to far in front if the group halts for any reason. The Leaders first priority is to keep a coherent group and make sure that no one gets lost or left behind. If you decide to leave or break away from a walk for any reason please ensure the Leader is informed or it may result in someone or possibly the whole walk turning back to search for you.