Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently asked questions
If you have a question that isn’t answered below, please get in touch. One of our volunteers will respond as quickly as possible.
General FAQs
Walks may be adjusted, shortened, or cancelled depending on conditions. Any updates will be communicated where possible.
Most walks are in and around the Peak District, but we operate across a wider area including Sheffield, Bolsover, Mansfield and occasionally further afield.
Upcoming walks are listed on our website, where you can browse options and choose one that suits your interests and ability.
Joining your first walk
No. You’re welcome to join us for your first three walks free of charge before deciding whether to become a member.
All walks are supported by a walk leader and a back marker, so no one gets left behind. However, you should still be comfortable completing the full distance at the group’s pace. If you’re unsure which walk to join we are happy to help you decide.
Yes, in most cases dogs are welcome on our walks. However, some walk leaders may specify no dogs on particular walks, so please check the individual walk details before attending.
Where dogs are allowed:
- You may bring one dog per person
- Dogs must be kept on a short lead at all times
Owners are responsible for their dog at all times and must ensure they:
- Do not cause a nuisance or alarm to other walkers
- Are kept under control around livestock, wildlife, roads, and in sensitive areas
- Do not leave any waste behind
Please note that responsibility for the dog lies entirely with the owner, and the Ramblers civil liability insurance does not extend to incidents involving dogs.
No! You can simply turn up at the meeting point. Generally walkers arrive 15-20 minutes before the departure time. If you have not walked with our group before you may wish to contact the walk leader in advance so they know you are coming. Please check the individual walk details for the walk leaders’ contact details.
We encourage car sharing where possible as a way to reduce the environmental impact of travelling to walks. We don’t organise formal car sharing arrangements, but walkers often make informal arrangements themselves. On some walks, people may agree to meet at a convenient point and travel together in shared cars to the walk start.
We recommend:
- Suitable walking shoes or boots
- Weather-appropriate clothing including a windproof, waterproof jacket and warm layers
- Water, packed lunch and a flask of tea or coffee for the day
- Sun protection and any personal medication you may need
Conditions can change quickly, especially in the Peak District, so it’s best to be prepared.
Yes. Many of our members attend walks on their own and quickly feel part of the group.
Yes. To help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience, we ask walkers to:
- Follow any guidelines issued by the group
- Listen to and follow the instructions of the walk leader
- Allow the walk leader to lead the group, set the pace, and determine the route and stopping points based on conditions on the day
Walk leaders may decline to take people on a walk if they feel someone is not suitably equipped or does not appear capable of completing the walk safely. Choosing a walk that matches your ability is therefore important.
We offer walks of varying lengths and difficulty levels. You should choose a walk that matches your fitness and experience. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to help you decide.
Becoming a member
All of our walks are open to adults. Our members come from a wide range of ages and backgrounds.
If you’re looking to walk with people of working age, weekend walks are often a good option. You’re also welcome to try different walks and groups to find what suits you best. We offer walks on Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday all year round.
As a member of the Ramblers, you can walk with any group across the country, including those that may appeal to different age ranges or interests. You’ll choose (or be allocated) a “home” group for communications such as programmes and newsletters.
No. Our members come from across the region, including Sheffield, Mansfield, Matlock, Bolsover and beyond.
Individual membership is £3.75 per month. This gives you access to walks across the Ramblers network nationwide, as well as other member benefits. Joint Memership options are also available.
Becoming a walk leader
No. Many of our current walk leaders started with little or no prior experience. Training and support are provided.
Walk leaders help plan routes, recce walks in advance, lead the group on the day, and ensure walkers are welcomed and supported throughout.
Yes. New leaders can buddy up with an experienced walk leader, and support is always available from the team.
Yes. Walk leaders complete simple training modules covering leadership, safety, and incident management. Existing qualifications may also be recognised.
There is no minimum commitment. You can lead walks as often or as occasionally as suits you.
Not necessarily. Sample routes and GPX files are available for inspiration, and you’ll work with the Walks Programme Coordinator to plan your walks.