Fresh air, good exercise, an appreciation of the countryside and convivial company are the key benefits of being a member of the Walking Group.

The length of the walk varies, usually up to 5 miles, which take between 2 and 3 hrs, occasionally stretching up to 10 miles.  These tend to be less frequent, and of course take longer.  The length depends on the voluntary leader.  Our walks are arranged on weekdays only and the date is varied so that members with fixed day commitments can participate.  Walk dates are set well in advance and are advised to members through an email and also on this website Diary page.  Approximately one week before a scheduled walk, full details are emailed to all members of the Walking Group.  It is not necessary to book a place on a walk or even to confirm attendance - just turn up at the starting point at the designated time.

New members will be provided with a 'Safety Information Sheet & Disclaimer' and will have to sign the disclaimer section before starting their first walk.  Guests who may wish to join the Walking Group or are a friend or relative of a member can come along on a walk after completing the form.  Only people who would be eligible to join u3a are permitted.

Walks are led by members of the Group who have volunteered to lead a walk and they will have recced the walk beforehand so that they are confident of the route and the conditions that we are likely to meet.  Walks are generally in the local area and the starting point will be within 10 miles of Bentley Heath, although occasionally a walk maybe a little further afield. We are fortunate to live in an area which has many designated countryside pathways.

We walk in most weathers although a walk will be cancelled if there is heavy snow or icy conditions underfoot.  Group members therefore need to wear walking boots and have wet weather outer clothing when appropriate.  Some members find a walking pole useful.  The walk leader will not allow anyone to participate if they consider them inappropriately clad.  It is also important for walkers to be aware of their own physical capabilities, and not over-stretch themselves.

Walks usually start promptly at 10:00 a.m. and so we gather 15 mins before that to get booted up, sign in and listen to any pre-walk briefing.  A drinks stop is scheduled into our walks and members usually bring a flask and/or cold drink with them.  On longer walks a sandwich stop or pub lunch is usually included.  Refreshment suggestions are included in the email notification for each outing together with full directions to the starting point.  Car sharing is encouraged.  Car parking is at the owner’s risk and the u3a does not take any responsibility for any loss or damage that may occur even if the parking arrangements have been suggested by the Walking Group Coordinator.