CW Logo

Log in

“Ask where the good way is and walk in it” Jeremiah 6:16

FAQs

Do I need to be a Christian to join?

The Christian Walking Club is open to all but as the name says, it's a Christian Walking Club, so don't be surprised when we pray, spend time in worship or chat about God in our lives. We welcome those who are in sympathy with the aims and Christian ethos of the club.

How do I join the Christian Walking Club? / Can I 'try out' a club event first? / Can I apply on-line? / What is the current subscription?

Click on 'Find Out More' in the main menu (at top-right). An on-line application form is provided - and information how you may attend some events as a "guest" (non-member). Please don't skip over the information on the 'Find Out More' page, just to reach the form.

At the time of writing this section, membership costs £16 per annum - paid most easily by Direct Debit via a second online form.

You may use PDF or paper forms instead. Click on 'Contact' in the main menu (at top-right) and choose the subject "Membership enquiry" in the Contact form.

We don't enroll under-18s as members but they may attend events together with a parent/guardian. See also below about the walks.

What 'Kit' or equipment do I need?

Essential are a good set of windproofs and waterproofs to keep you dry and warm. Suitable footwear for the terrain you are walking across is also needed. Hat and gloves are often necessary. For more details take a look at this BMC guide New Hill Walkers booklet and in particular the Kit List given on page 17.

How many people come on events?

Anything between 6 to 60. Special interest or themed events such as backpacking or scrambling with professional guides are limited in number.

How many people will there be on a walk?

The number is set to ensure the safety of the group. Generally, the more technical and harder the walk, the smaller the number. On ‘Easy Lowland' walks there may be up to 16 people.

What walk grade is suitable for me?

Easy : Choose this grade of walk if you are either a new inexperienced walker, are returning to walking after a break, or need to build your fitness up. The pace is usually relaxed with plenty of time to ‘catch-your-breath’. A small daypack or bag will probably hold everything you need as often en-route there are cafés’, food outlets, etc to buy all the refreshment you want for the day. The walk will be in Lowland terrain. In good weather, walking shoes (sometimes known as approach shoes) will do in place of lightweight boots.

Moderate : This is the grade of walk for the majority; you will probably walk or run (e.g. Parkrun, jog) regularly or take part in some other active sport (e.g. swim, cycle, racquet sport, team ball game, go to the gym) at least once a month, and be in good health. Usually a 20+ litre daypack will carry everything you need. The pace ‘on-the-flat’ will be typically 4km/hr but a little slower uphill. On a full days walk there will be usually three breaks for refreshment, so be prepared to keep going even if you are feeling in need of a breather as you will need to get back before it gets dark or the tea/cake/outdoor gear shop closes.

Hard : Walks at this level are for the regular experienced walker who is used to 5 or more hours effort, sometimes at a brisk pace. You probably will be carrying a 30+ litre daypack to hold your own gear (waterproofs, food & water, etc) and possibly some group safety equipment (e.g. group shelter, group first aid kit, confidence rope if scrambling, etc). Stops are usually brief; the group all want to complete the days goal and be back in time for a shower and supper.

Very Hard : For the very fit walker used to 3 or more consecutive days Hard walking. Days out are usually long, at least seven hours.

A final note - Moderate, Hard and Very Hard walks may be in Lowland, Hill & Moorland or Mountain terrain.

What can be expected of me on a walk?

Anyone joining a walk or event is expected to behave in a reasonable manner. You should respect those on the event and comply with any reasonable request given by a walk leader, especially regarding issues of safety.

Can the Club supply any training in map reading or leading walks?

The Christian Walking Club occasionally organises weekends to give informal training in navigation and leading walks. These are designed to help members of the club improve their skills with a view to contributing to leading walks and events for the club.

Are children welcome on walks?

Children under 18 are welcome on walks but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

Can I bring my dog on an event?

Usually it is only possible if you have a 'guide' or 'hearing' dog, but check with the event leader first.

Does the Christian Walking Club provide any insurance cover?

Public liability insurance cover is provided. Participants may like to take out personal insurance to cover situations such as cancellation or injury.

When was the Christian Walking Club founded?

The Christian Walking Club, originally known as the Christian Rambling Club, was founded in 1981 and changed its name in 2013.

Local Groups

Informal local groups, independent of the Christian Walking Club (CWC), arrange short day walks on a Saturday in their local area. You do not need to join CWC to attend day walks organised by local groups.

There are local groups covering the following areas: