What you need to do
When walking in a group, the most important thing is to look out for each other. There are a few simple guidelines to help keep the group together, and keep everyone safe:
- Don't walk in front of the leader unless he/she invites you to go ahead, for instance up a hill.
- Listen to any instructions the leader may give and be ready to move on when requested.
- If you need to stop for any reason, for example to change clothing, make sure someone knows so that you do not get left behind.
- Use a whistle to attract attention in an emergency or if you lose sight of the person in front or behind, due to fog, distance or turnings.
- Always be aware of those ahead and behind you. If there is a change of direction make sure anyone who is behind knows that you have turned.
Walking in a group helps to keep everyone safe, and in Ramblers you can draw on the the skills and knowledge of experienced walkers. But please remember, you are ultimately responsible for your own safety, and join our walks at your own risk.
Dogs and cows
Dogs are allowed on most walks provided they are well behaved and controlled by their owner. They should be promptly put on a lead when approaching livestock, approaching roads, or at the request of the leader.
It is a courtesy to check with the leader before bringing a dog along. Occasionally there is a "no dogs" request on a walk. This will be noted under the walk description in the walks programme.
Bear in mind that we need to treat cows with care and consideration, for our own good as well as theirs.
When walking through a field of cows, please:
keep dogs on a lead / under close control- go round the cows, not through them
- do not come between cows and their calves
- walk through together, in a group, except…
- … dog owners, please let other walkers go through first
- walk calmly, avoiding sudden noise or movement.