Walk Grading and information for new members
Grade 1
Up to 7 miles. Generally easy terrain (good paths, tracks etc). No exposed land. Mainly flat although gentle slopes maybe included.
Grade 2
Up to 12 miles. May involve uphill stretches. Possibly including some short stretches over open hillside. Boots and full waterproofs recommended. Reasonable fitness needed.
Grade 3
Longer routes which could involve sustained or steep climbs.Theses include exposed routes over hills and moorlands. Boots, full waterproofs and warm clothing essential. Previous walking experience recommended. A good level of fitness required.
Grade 4
UK mountain routes. Anything involving scrambling or other very difficult terrain. Full mountain equipment required. Previous hard walking experience required.
eg Tryfan
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 - ITEMS 1-5 ARE MOST IMPORTANT
1) Water, Packed Lunch
2) Comfortable walking boots
3) Walking trousers - NOT JEANS
4) A suitable rucksack or backpack
5) Waterproof jacket & over trousers
6) Warm clothing-plenty of layers depending on weather
7) Gloves, Hat, Scarf in cold weather and on Grade 3/4 walks
8) Whistle & Torch Grade 4 Walks and on some evening walks
9) Emergency Survival Bag Grade 4 walks
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.
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.
The Ramblers' Association is a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales. Company registration number: 4458492. Registered Charity in England and Wales number: 1093577. Registered office: 2nd floor, Camelford House, 87-90 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TW.