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There is of course nothing to stop you stepping out
from your front door and just going for a walk.
Kent is also well provided with country parks and
similar places such as Knole Park where there are well
maintained tracks on which you can walk in normal shoes
without much danger of getting lost.
Walking with a group brings a number of benefits such
as companionship, motivation and the opportunity to walk
in more remote places without needing map reading
skills.
Many people prefer to walk on their own or with just
a few family members or friends. However, if you
are new to recreational walking you may still benefit
from walking with a group until you have built up your
confidence and navigational skills.
Try out a walk and a group
If you want to walk with a group, check out our information on the
groups in Kent by going to our
home page and
clicking on either the map or the list of groups at the very bottom of
the page.
Some groups tend to have longer, faster walks, others have shorter or slower ones.
Some have a few pub stops and others do not. To find out more information on the
footwear and feet care, clothing, equipment, safety and security, body matters, natural hazards, suggested reading and courses, click on the
links on the left.
Equipment and safety
Whether you walk on your own, or with a group, there are some things you must consider.
All these will be found on the main Ramblers'
site.
You will also need to know where you can walk legally. Unless you are following a group, you will need a map and a compass. You will also need appropriate footwear and clothing
and a rucksack, as well as food and drink.
Rather than spend a lot of money, especially on boots which may not be right, check out the following guidance then join a short group walk. You will find our members more than happy to give advice to those new to walking.
Are you fit enough?
The Kent groups put on a wide range of walks, some of which you will need to be very fit to complete and others are available for those less
fit or for beginners. We have regular walkers with quadruple bypasses, artificial hips and many in their
70s and 80s. To find out if a walk is suitable for you, contact the leader and ask. By arranging transport with a friend you could do half a walk, leaving part way though.
Not a member yet?
If you are not yet a member of the Ramblers you are welcome to join
us for 2 or 3 walks to decide if you want to join. Ask the group
of your choice for a programme of their walks and off you go. We love
our walking. We are sure you will too. |
