What we’re about
Hampshire Hikers is the group for you if you like a 'good' brisk walk, of 9-12 miles, in easy-going and friendly company, and a choice of a wide range of locations in and around the big county of Hampshire. Groups sizes vary, but usually around 20. The average age of the group is 55, going on 18! We try to walk at a ‘brisk’ pace, neither a ‘route-march’ nor an ‘amble’.
Walks are led by experienced Walk Leaders. We walk in Hampshire, Dorset, Surrey, West Sussex, and East Sussex. There are trips away with a full programme of led walks. Each full walk will have a break for your picnic lunch, and maybe a pause in the morning for your flask of coffee. After each walk, there will be time for a pint or a coffee, and a chat, in a friendly pub, with a roaring fire... or a sunny garden!
To join the group, you will need to apply through the Meetup channels, and post a recognisable picture of yourself. You will then receive a message asking you to choose prepayment for your chosen number of walks. (£10 for 5 walks, £20 for 10 or £30 for 15) Once payment is received, and you are approved, you will become a member of Hampshire Hikers.
Please note: If you have tried a walk or two and find the group is not for you and you want to leave, you will get a REFUND of your money, less £2 for each walk you have done. Other terms will be in your message.
Please take a few minutes to read through our ethos and make sure it is right for you, as certain considerations on behalf of both members and Walk Leaders enable the group to run smoothly and happily.
1. Be respectful and courteous towards the Walk Leader, other members, and people we encounter on our walks.
2. Walk behind the Walk Leader: they will set the pace for the group, and they know where they are going. Remember, they have worked on, and recced, walks for you.
3. Be respectful of the rules of the countryside by following the Walk Leader on designated paths and particularly on lanes and stretches of roads, Close gates if you are the last person through. Take nothing and leave nothing.
4. Listen to the Walk Leader – particularly at the briefing before the walk. There will be information and instructions to follow for the safety of the group. However, please note that you walk at your own risk, and you take responsibility for your own health and safety.
5. Looking after yourself also means that you bring sufficient food and drink, and wear suitable walking attire, with appropriate footwear and thermals/waterproofs/sun protection.
6. Dogs are welcome, but they MUST be under your control at all times and used to walking with a group so they do not get under anyone’s feet. Dogs must be on the lead at appropriate times and when requested. Warnings relating to livestock must be obeyed.
7. Enjoy the walks! Make friends and discover new areas.
Hope to see you on a walk soon, best wishes, Lesley Ann