Sunday 12th January 2025 6:30am Lathkill Dale Derbyshire

Cost of this walk is £14.00 for members and £16.00 for visitors

Walk Organiser – Neville Village

Lathkill Dale is a Limestone Valley situated about 3 miles from Bakewell where the river emerges from Lathkill Head Cave which disappears during drought and summer and is due to old Lead workings dating back to at least the 13th century, which draws the water underground. The Dale also has several historic bridges and old mill remnants i.e. Carters Mill, with the medieval bridge at Conksbury and nearby deserted medieval settlements recorded in The Domesday Book.

The A Walk starts from Rowsley Car Park and heads South to Endcliffe Quary then turns North to visit Nine Ladies Stone Circle. Heads South to Upper Town, then Eastwards past Birchover and turns Southeast to Elton. The walk then heads North up to Alport and then Over Hadden. Then turns West into Lathkill Dale, heads North past Mill Farm then Southeast returning to Lathkill Dale, then East through Fern Dale and finally Northeast along the Limestone Way to the finish at Moneyash Car Park.

Leaders: Carol Gosling and Tom Somervell

Distance: 25Km Height Gain: 820m

The B1 Walk starts from Rowsley Car Park and heads Southeast to Congreave onto Stanton Peak continuing to the Kings Stone, past Birchover and Upper Town, and turns Northeast to Robin Hoods Stride along the Limestone Way to Bradford and then Northeast past Youlgreave continuing Northeast into Lathkill Dale and past Ricklow Quarry to turn Southeast into Fern Dale and finally Northeast along the Limestone way to the finish at Monyash Car Park.

Leaders: Bob Price and Ian Broughton

Distance: 22Km Height Gain: 700m

The B2 Walk also starts from Rowsley Car Park and heads Northeast towards Low Moor Wood before turning East past Haddon Park Farm and then Southeast to Cronksbury. South past Alport and Bradford, then following the River Bradford past Castle Farm to Middleton. Heads North past Lomberdale Hall turning Northeast along the Limestone Way into Lathkill Dale. Heads Northeast past Ricklow Quarry and turn sharply Southeast at Fern Dale towards One Ash Grange Farm then Northeast to follow the Limestone way as the A and B1 groups to the finish at Monyash Car Park.

Leaders: Keith and Elaine Richards

Distance: 21Km Height Gain: 625m

The C Walk also starts from Rowsley Car Park and heads Southeast to Congreave, then South to Stanton Hall before turning East to Alport. Then Northwest along the River Lathkill past Conksbury Village towards Over Haddon following Lathkill Dale and heading Northeast past One Ash Grange Farm, then joins the Limestone Way past Fern Dale continuing as the A and B groups to the finish at Monyash Car Park.

Leaders: Wendy Price and Neville Village

Distance: 15Km Height Gain: 450m

Map: 1:25000 Explorer OL24 The White Peak

Memories from the 50 years of Hill Walking Club

…............wonderful flavoured icecreams at the farm at the bottom of the Howgills, Sedburgh-marmalade and whisky was one Carol G

Sunday 16 March 2025 6:00am Aran Mountains

North Wales - The Arans - Sunday 16th March 2025

(Cost of this walk is £15.00 for members and £17.00 for visitors)

Walk Organiser - Anne Farmer Coach leaves at 6.00am

The Aran mountains form a long rocky ridge with Aran Fawddwy as the highest peak in the mountain range, the only peak in Wales outside North Snowdonia above 900m and the 16th highest summit inWales, but Aran Benllyn is another notable summit. The eastern side is extremely steep, falling spectacularly in crags to a series of glacial cwms or corries which also enclose two small lakes (Creiglyn Dyfi and Llyn Lli-wbran). To the north the main peaks of Snowdon rise proudly; to the west you can see the lovely coastline of Cardigan Bay. South lies the remote massif of the Cambrian Mountains; and eastwards twinkle the waters of Bala Lake. This will be the club’s sixth visit to the Arans. The walks will include all of the main summits.

Our walks all finish at Dinas Mawddwy.

The A Walk starts from Llanuwchllyn heading across fields initially and climbs gently in a southerly direction across Garth Fawr,(332m) from there continues to the summit of Moel Ffenigl (603m) and across Craig y Llyn continuing south across Aran Benllyn (885m)and Aran Fawddw (905m) then gently descending across the Tyllau Mwn levels (610m) before steeply climbing again to the Cairn and small lake at Glasgwm. (772m) From there the steady descent continues across Craig Cywarch to join a track through pine forests to Pentrewern , before following the river valley to the finish at Dina Mawddwy.

Leaders: Tom Somervell and Scott Rumbold

Distance: 22.4 Km Height Gain: 1042m Descent: 1118m

The B1 Walk starts at Llanuwchllyn heading across fields initially and climbs gently in a southerly direction across Garth Fawr, (332m) continuing a gentle ascent across Moel Ddu, (430m) Craig y Geifr, Moel Ffenigl, (603m), Aran Benllyn (885m) and Aran Fawddw (905m), before turning south east gently descending through Drws Bach and across Drysgol (745m). It then turns south west a to continue a gradual descent across Waun Goch and steeply to the valley at Cywarch before continuing southwards in the valley of Cwm Cywarch along tracks to the finish at Dina Mawddwy

Leaders: Bob Price and Anne Farmer

Distance: 19.4Km Height Gain: 878m Descent: 954m

The B2 Walk Starts near Wenallt on the A494 going along a lane towards Esgair-gawr before climbing gently eastwards initially through woodland and then more steeply to the summit of Aran Fawddw (905m). Steps are then briefly retraced to descend gently through Drws Bach across Drysgol (745m) and then turning south west to continue a gradual decent across the side of Waun Goch and steeply to the valley at Cywarch, before continuing southwards in the valley of Cwm Cywarch along tracks to the finish at Dina Mawddwy.

Leaders: Neville Village and Dennis Haycox

Distance: 17.2Km Height Gain: 815m Descent: 873m

The C Walk starts from the A470 and directly climbs steeply up Ochr Y Bwich to 509m. The climb continues more gently north east to the summit of Pen y Brynfforchog (685m) and around the edge of woodland to the summit of Glasgwm (779m). Then descending southwards, and winding south west to join a track through pine forests to Pentrewern, before following the river valley to the finish at Dina Mawddwy.

Leaders: Wendy Price and Rob Maule

Distance: 15.4Km Height Gain: 528m Descent:796m

Maps: 1:25000 Explorer OL23

Sunday14th December 2025 Coach Leaves 7:00am

Llangollen

Llangollen is a town and community situated on the River Dee in Denbighshire, Wales. Its riverside location forms the edge of the Berwyn Range and the Dee Valley section of the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The area is rich in history with evidence of both Bronze and Iron Age activity, castle and abbey ruins, more recent industrial workings and the canal and railway bringing transport to the region. It is a walker’s paradise with hills to the north and south, the impressive Eglwyseg limestone escarpment, visible as a white scar on the landscape and long distance paths, the Dee Valley Way, Berwyn Way, Offas Dyke Path and the Clwydian Way all accessible. Our walks will encompass some of these trails as we explore the area before we return to the Wild Pheasant Hotel for our annual dinner.

Map ……………………………...………..…Explorer 255 Llangollen and Berwyn

Walk Details……..………………….……….……………....…………Carol Gosling

Memories from the 50 years of Hill Walking Club

.........Bernard, our club comedian, set up as a guest performer with a "One Night Only" poster displayed, at the Bower House on a February weekend. A family waited all night in the bar for his appearance.........!

Sunday 8th June 2025 6:00am Nantlle Ridge, Mynydd Mawr

Cost of this walk is £18.00 for members and £20.00 for visitors

Walk Oganiser Rob Maule

The Nantlle Ridge, this often-overlooked Snowdonia mountain range, makes for an exciting ridge walk. Just a stone’s throw from the summit of Snowdon, on the western side of the A4085 Beddgelert to Caernarfon Road, lies Snowdonia’s westernmost mountain range.

Moel Eilio and Foel Goch – a roller coaster route over Snowdon’s quieter neighbours on the western flanks of Snowdon. Moel Eilio’s summit is flat and a shelter is a noticeable feature. Even more noticeable on a clear day are the views taking in mountain and coast panoramas.

Mynydd Mawr (Welsh for 'Big Mountain') Which overlooks Llyn Cwellyn and is the northern outlier of the Moel Hebog group. On its western flank are the remains of ancient settlements and field ystems. The profile of Mynydd Mawr from the north is often thought to resemble an elephant lying down.

Walks A and B1 are not recommended for those of you who do not have a head for heights or are not comfortable with exposed edges on this route that involves a grade 1 scramble.

A WALK Nantlle Ridge

This starts 0pposite the Rhyd Ddu carpark (SH 570 525) follow the footpath due west leading to a steep climb to the summit of Y Garn, from here follow the ridge SSW taking care with the steep scramble towards Mynydd Drws-Y-Coed. Keep ahead into the next col and continue up onto Trum y Ddysgl.At SH 543 515 the path turns predominantly west and head onto the obelisk at the summit of Mynydd Tal-y-Mignedd, the route turns SW towards Bwlch Dros-bern and Craig Pennant. After this you reach the highest point of the day of 734m at the cairn. A sharp change of direction at SH 518 499 will start the descent towards Beudy Newedd and onto the valley path to Beudy’r Ddol and Cwm Trwsgl follow this path onto the Beddgelert Forest. Through the forest onto open ground and continue the descent into Rhyd Ddu.

Leaders: Tom Somervell and Ranjit Bindarh Distance: 17k -Ascent 1230m

B1 WALK Nantlle Ridge

Start at Cae Gors SH 575 508 enter the Beddgelert forest follow the track for around 120m before turning North follow the Snowdonia Slate Trail through the forest and along the edge of Llyn y Gader as far as SH 567 524. Turn left and join the A route, first climbing to Y Garn 633m. Continue to follow the ridge taking care on the ascent of Mynydd Drws-y coed a grade 1 scramble with exposed edges, as far as the obelisk at Mynydd Tal-y-migned. Here you re trace the route as far as SH 543 514, then taking what should be an obvious grassy spur on your right you will be starting your descent along the edge of the forest on your left, Continue into the remote Bwlch-y-Ddwy-elor, to a gate on the left, around here you will find remnants of the Cwm Trwsgl quarries. Like the A group follow the track through the forest and onto open ground and continue the descent into Rhyd Ddu.

Leaders: Bob Price and Sonia Smalling Distance: 14k- Ascent 845m

B2 Walk Moel Eilio Ridge

Start from the carpark at Tafarn Snowdonia Parc SH 526 588, turn right from the carpark towards the village of Waunfawr taking care walking on the main A4085 to cross the bridge over the Afon Gwyrfai, take the footpath on the left to pass through the southern edge of the village. The route joins the Snowdonia Slate Trail heading E to SH 557 599 Bwlch-y-groes turn S to Bryn Mawr and onto Moel Eilio 726m. Continue over Bwlch Gwyn and Bwlch Cwm Cesig reaching a height of 629m and down to Foel Gron at 593m and Foel Goch 605m. The route then turns SSE over Bwlch Maesgwm and crosses the Snowden Ranger Path at SH 575 553. The route becomes more southerly as you descend towards Clogwyn-y-gwin where the path turns SW to finish at Rhyd Ddu.

Leaders: Dennis Haycox and Paul Burns Distance: 14.2k – Ascent 775m

C WALK Mynydd Mawr

Start from the carpark at Tafarn Snowdonia Parc SH 526 588, turn left from the carpark away from the village of Waunfawr taking care walking on the main A4085. In a few metres take the minor road on the right climb steadily to the view point over looking Caernarfon, Menai Straites and Anglesey, take care this road is used by local traffic. The route now turns towards Moel Smyth and joins the Snowdonia Slate Trail at SH 520 571 for a short distance, leaving it at SH 525 560 heading S and then sharply E. On a clear day the ascent of Mynydd Mawr can be easily seen, a steady and continuous ascent leads you to the summit of Myndd Mawr reaching the height of 698m. We now start to descend steadily past Craig y Bera and over Foel Rudd at 573m. The views along this sweeping ridge can be stunning. Following a steep descent we enter the Beddgelert forest and rejoin the Slate Trail, which takes us into Rhyd Ddu.

Leaders: Wendy Price and Rob Maule Distance: 11.5k – Ascent 645m

…......Sonia falling into a peat bog on a Lakes weekend in February. She was there one moment then covered the next. “Dawn French ,Vicar of Dibley jumping into the puddle that came to her head!!” was the Whats App post. Sarah T

Sunday 13th July 2025 6:00am Ingleborough/Whernside

Walk Organiser - Tom Somervell

Cost of this months walk is £20 members £22 non members

All our walks finish at Ingleton, next to the Community Centre (OS grid ref. SD69457295).

The A Party start on the B6255 Low Sleights Road near the Old Hill Inn (OS grid ref. SD74307765), heading North along Philpin Lane, past Long Stack onto ‘A Pennine Journey’ path, up a steep ascent to gain the ridge, and then over High Pike to the summit of Whernside (736m, the highest point of the day). We continue North along the ridge, then veer East and eventually South as we drop down to cross the railway at Little Dale, then past Bleamore Sidings and the Ribblehead viaduct to Ribblehead. We cross the B6255 passing under the railway bridge and take the track that leads South-East through the disused quarry (now a nature reserve) and across Gauber High Pasture towards Colt Park. We then head South-West up over Park Fell (563m), past Black Rock and over Simon Fell before making the final ascent to the summit plateau of Ingleborough (724m). We then continue in a West-South-West direction on ‘A Pennine Journey’ past Quaking Pot and Red Galt Head to the Fell Lane track down to the finish at Ingleton.

Leaders: Matthew Lumley and Tom Somervell

Distance: 24km Ascent 1025m, Descent 1165m

The B1 Party start at Ribble Head on the B6255 (SD76407910), and head North-West following the ‘Three Peaks’ path past Ribblehead viaduct and continuing Northwards past the Bleamoor Sidings to Little Dale. After crossing the railway we continue North-West up Slack Hill, then following the path as it turns West, and then South to gain the ridge that leads to the summit of Whernside (736m, the highest point of the day). We continue South along the ridge, before dropping steeply down to the track that leads to Philpin Lane. After crossing the B6255 we head South past Highwood Pasture and ascend over Humphrey Bottom and steeply up to gain the ridge. Turning West-South-West we continue up to the summit plateau of Ingleborough (724m) and then follow ‘A Pennine Journey’ past Quaking Pot and Red Galt Head to the Fell Lane track down to the finish at Ingleton.

Leaders: Anne Farmer, Ian Broughton and Bob Price

Distance: 20.5km Ascent 940m, Descent 1085m

The B2 Party start on the B6255 Low Sleights Road by Chapel-le-Dale (OS grid ref. SD73857720) and head North-West before turning North-East along the Dales High Way past Bruntscar, Ivescar and Winterscales Farm. After passing underneath the railway, we turn South past the Ribblehead viaduct to Ribblehead, where we cross the B6255 passing under the railway bridge. We take the track that leads South-East through the disused quarry (now a nature reserve) and across Gauber High Pasture towards Colt Park. We then head South-West over Park Fell (563m) and on past Black Rock over Simon Fell before making the ascent to the summit plateau of Ingleborough (724m – the highest point of the day). We then continue in a West-South-West direction following ‘A Pennine Journey’ past Quaking Pot and Red Galt Head to the Fell Lane track down to the finish at Ingleton.

Leaders: Elaine Richards and Keith Richards

Distance: 19.5km Ascent 680m, Descent 790m

The C Party start at Ribble Head on the B6255 (SD76407910), passing under the railway bridge and taking the track that leads South-East through the disused quarry (now a nature reserve) and across Gauber High Pasture towards Colt Park. We then head South-West over Park Fell (563m) and on past Black Rock over Simon Fell before making the ascent to the summit plateau of Ingleborough (724m – the highest point of the day). We then continue in a West-South-West direction following ‘A Pennine Journey’ past Quaking Pot and Red Galt Head to the Fell Lane track down to the finish at Ingleton.

Leaders: Wendy Price and Neville Village

Distance 13km Ascent 520m, Descent 675m

Map - OS 1:25000 Explorer OL2 – Yorkshire Dales – Southern & Western Area.

Memories from the 50 years of Hill Walking Club

….....coach driver Chris, turning the coach round on a sixpence in a very narrow walled lane, near Castleton-must have been a twenty point turn! Carol G

Sunday 10th August 2025 6:00am The Rhinogydd – North Wales

Walk Organisers - Bob Price and Rob Maule. Coach departs at 6.00am

(Cost of this walk is £19.00 for members and £21.00 for visitors)

These are wonderful Snowdonia walks that explore the rocky and wild terrain of the northern Rhinogs. The walks feature a traverse of the northern ridge of the Rhinogs, a chaos of mini crags and heather, with scatterings of little lakes, a little-trodden and remote area of Snowdonia. The terrain is frequently rugged and pathless and can be very tricky underfoot.

The northern Rhinogs present some of the roughest and toughest walking to be found anywhere in Wales, the walks reflect this, with all of them involving a small amount of easy scrambling. However despite these difficulties, this is a superb part of Snowdonia that only a few walkers visit.

Gaiters recommended for all walks

The A walk starts near Pont y Grible (SH713307) goes west passing by Graigddu-isaf and continues towards the Roman Steps turns north east over the crags passing Llyn Pryfed and Llyn Twr-glas then climbs Bwlch Gwylim and continues northwards over Craig Ddrwg, passing Llyn Corn-ystwc and Llyn Ddu on the way to the summits of Moel Ysgyfarnogod and Foel Penolau. Turning north east crosses Diffwys to the summit of Moel y Gyrafolen the walk then descends to join the minor road towards Trawsfynydd at spot height 218, turns south east to the junction with the A470, turns left and continues to the layby and the awaiting coach. (SH711352).

Leaders: Carol Gosling and Tom Somervell.

Distance: 20.5Km Ascent: 850m Descent: 820m

The B1 walk (Clockwise) starts near Cefn-gallt-y-cwm (SH710345) where the minor road is followed and the left fork taken to the settlement, the walk then follows a track to Wern-fach, turns west and crosses an area of marshy ground after which the walk climbs to the summit of Clip via Bwlch Gwylim. The walk continues northwards over Craig Ddrwg, passing Llyn Corn-ystwc and Llyn Ddu over the crags on the way to the summits of Moel Ysgyfarnogod and Foel Penolau. Turning north east crosses Diffwys to the summit of Moel y Gyrafolen, the walk then descends to join the minor road towards Trawsfynydd at spot height 218, turns south east to the junction with the A470, turns left and continues to the layby and the awaiting coach. (SH711352).

Leaders: Bob Price and Louise Tidman.

Distance: 17.5Km Ascent: 660m Descent: 660m

The B2 walk (Anti-clockwise) also starts near Cefn-gallt-y-cwm (SH710345) where the minor road is followed past Tyn Twll to spot height 218, turns west and climbs to the summit of Moel y Gyrafolen. Continuing west and south the walk goes over Diffwys to climb the summits of Foel Penolau and Moel Ysgyfarnogod then over the crags and Craig Ddrwg to Bwlch Gwylim and the summit of Clip. A steep descent follows then the walk continues to descend to cross the marshy ground to Wern-fach and follows the track, then the minor road towards Trawsfynydd and the A470, turns left at the junction and continues to the layby and the awaiting coach. (SH711352).

Leaders: Rob Maule and Paul Burns.

Distance: 17.5Km Ascent: 660m Descent: 660m

The C walk also starts near Cefn-gallt-y-cwm (SH710345) where the minor road is followed past Tyn Twll to spot height 218, turns west and climbs to the summit of Moel y Gyrafolen. Continuing west and south the walk goes over Diffwys to climb the summit of Foel Penolau. A steep and pathless descent follows to join a track which is taken to the minor road near Cefn Clawdd that leads towards Trawsfynydd and the A470, turns left at the junction and continues to the layby and the awaiting coach. (SH711352).

Leaders: Wendy Price and Neville Village.

Distance: 14Km Ascent: 500m Descent: 500m

Maps: 1:25000 OL18. Harlech, Porthmadog and Bala.

Memories from the 50 years of Hill Walking Club

…..........a very windy, snowy recce on High Street (Lakes), when it was 3 steps up and 2 down, John C lost one of his newly acquired snow chains (very early design) and Bob had his glasses blown off, never to be found. Richard G

IMPORTANT PLEASE NOTE

The forecast is for very poor weather conditions in Snowdonia and the west of the UK on Sunday. For eveyones safety, the committee have decided to change this months walk location to the Peak District, based from Castleton. Sorry if you were hoping for Snowdonia, but the walk will be there for the future.

Coach start time unchanged 6.00 am Mere Green.

Cost of this walk is £19.00 for members and £21.00 for visitors

Walk Organisers – Wendy and Bob Price Coach departs at 6.00am

Our walks start on the eastern side of the Moelwyn’s near Blaenau Ffestinog and will cross this remote, wild and lesser known area with its numerous picturesque lakes. All walks include some easy scrambling with a little exposure, the terrain is wet and boggy in places and the wearing of gaiters is advised.

Gaiters recommended for all walks

The A walk starts from Tanygrisiau (SH681449), and follows the minor road in a north easterly direction, then turns west by the waterfalls, at first following a track then a short section of steep rocky ground to join the path which crosses open fellside passing large unfenced open pits then gradually climbing to the summit of Moelwyn Mawr (770m). Turning south the walk follows the ridge over Craigysgafn with an exposed short steep rocky descent to Bwlch Stwlan (care to be taken) then climbs to the summit of Moelwyn Bach. Turning west the walk descends to the minor road over open fellside which is boggy in places, then north through Croesor to join the Cambrian Way. The ascent of Cnicht begins here, which is rocky in places with some easy scrambling to the summit at (689m). The walk continues to follow the Cambrian Way past Llyn yr Adar then turns south east past Llyn Cwm-corsiog to the disused Rhosydd quarries. The walk then follows the Snowdonia Slate Trail in a south easterly direction past Llyn Cwmorthin to join the minor road which is followed to the finish at Taygrisiau. (SH681449).

Leaders: Carol Gosling and Tom Somervell.

Distance: 19Km Ascent: 1290m Descent: 1290m

The B1 walk Starts at the top of the Crimea Pass on the A470 and gradually climbs in a south westerly direction to the summit of Allt-fawr (698m). Turns west to cross open fellside often wet underfoot, then contours round towards Llyn Conglog passing Moel Druman and several small lakes before turning south west towards Llyn yr Adar. From there the walk turns south to join the Cambrian Way through the disused Rhosydd slate quarry then gradually climbs to the summit of Moel-yr-hydd (648m). A descent follows passing large unfenced open pits then gradually climbs to the summit of Moelwyn Mawr (770m). The A route is then followed which has an exposed short steep rocky descent to Bwlch Stwlan (care to be taken). Descending then past Llyn Stwlan reservoir and down the disused quarry inclines to the finish at Tanygrisiau. (SH681449).

Leaders: Bob Price and Dennis Haycox.

Distance: 16.2Km Ascent: 925m Descent: 1125m

The B2 walk Also starts at the top of the Crimea Pass and follows the B1 route to Moel Druman then turns south west towards Llyn yr Adar from there turns south to join the Cambrian Way which is followed through the disused Rhosydd slate quarry workings then gradually climbs to the summit of Moelwyn Mawr (770m). From there following the A route with an exposed short steep rocky descent to Bwlch Stwlan (care to be taken) and the B1 route to the finish at Taygrisiau. (SH681449).

Leaders: Rob Maule assisted by Richard Gosling.

Distance: 14Km Ascent: 800m Descent: 1000m

The C walk starts at Tanygrisiau (SH681449) and climbs steeply in a westerly direction along the disused slate quarry inclines subsequently passing the Llyn Stwlan reservoir to reach Bwlch Stwlan, then turns east from where the ascent of the Moelwyn ridge begins. The walk climbs steeply over Craigysgafn (care to be taken) then continues on to the summit of Moelwyn Mawr (770m). Turning north east a steep descent follows passing large unfenced open pits then gradually climbs to the summit of Moel-yr-hydd. (648m). An easy grassy descent follows to the disused Rhosydd Quarries. The walk then follows the Snowdonia Slate Trail in a south easterly direction past Llyn Cwmorthin to join the minor road which is followed to the finish at Taygrisiau. (SH681449).

Leaders: Wendy Price and Neville Village.

Distance: 11Km Ascent: 680m Descent: 680m

Maps: Explorer OL17 Snowdon and the Conwy Valley

Explorer OL18 Harlech, Porthmadog and Y Bala.

Friday September 26th –29th 2025 Club Weekend Weymouth

In 2025 the club will be returning to the Crown Hotel in Weymouth. The hotel is in the perfect location and our walks will encompass parts of the SW coastal path on the Jurassic coastline including the picturesque Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door.

Details From…………….Roger Needle

Memories from the 50 years of Hill Walking Club

….....putting my hand on an adder when getting up after a coffee stop on an autumn weekend Rob M

Sunday 12th October 2025 6:00am Northern Fells

Walk Organiser – Ian Broughton

Cost of this months walk is £20 member £22 non members

The walks cover the Lakeland Fells north of Keswick, taking in the two highest peaks in this area, Skiddaw and Blencathra (or Saddleback as it also known as). Skiddaw is the oldest mountain in the Lake District and third highest. The ascent of Skiddaw will, if the weather is kind, provide excellent views of Derwent Water and Borrowdale. Wainwright describes Blencathra as a mountain that compels attention even from those dull people whose eyes are not habitually lifted to the hills. All the walks end at the village of Threlkeld, an area that once had considerable lead and zinc mine workings.

A Walk

The A walk starts at on the A591 near to the Ravenstone Manor Hotel, climbs initially north east until reaching Ling How, then turning southeast, climbing over Kiln Pots and following the Edge to Ullock Pike and Carlside and then the ascent to the summit of Skiddaw. The route then retraces the path for a short distance before dropping down to Sale How and then descending further to Skiddaw House. Then begins the ascent of Blencathra via Cloven Stone and Foule Crag. The decent is then in a southerly direction to Threlkeld, via Hall’s Fell.

Leaders: Matthew Lumley and Tom Somervell.

Distance: 16.1km Height Gain: 1390m Descent : 1350m

B1 Walk

The B1 walk follow the same route as the A1 Walk, up and down Skiddaw, until it reaches Skiddaw House. It then goes in a generally southerly direction, following the course of the Glenderaterra Beck, past the Blencathra Field Centre and Blease Farm, finishing at Threlkeld.

Leaders: Anne Farmer and Bob Price

Distance: 16.0km Height Gain: 985m Descent : 940m

B2 Walk

The B2 walk starts at Dodds Woods Car Park and climbs in a generally south east direction following the Skill Beck, past Dodd to the south, reaching White Stones, it then turns north, up to Carlside. It then follows the A1/B1 routes, up and down Skiddaw, until it reaches Skiddaw House and then the B1 route back to Threlkeld.

Leaders: Paul Burns and Ian Broughton

Distance: 15.6 km Height Gain: 932m Descent : 900m

C Walk

The C walk starts near the village of Scales on the A66 and initially heads in a northeasterly direction towards Mousthwaite Comb. The route then turns to general westerly direction and climbs to the summit of Blencathra, via Scales Fell. The ridge is then followed to Knowe Crags before descending via Blease Fell to Threlkeld, past the Blencathra Field Centre and Blease Farm.

Leaders: Wendy Price and Neville Village

Distance: 10.4km Height Gain: 695m Descent : 770m

Walk Details ……………….………………….……….……...…………Ian Broughton

Maps 1:25000 OL4 Lake District - North Western Area

OL5 Lake District North Eastern Area

Memories from the 50 years of Hill Walking Club

….. strong winds and rain on Fairfield causing Colin to get blown over and Bernard to fall and crack a tooth. ... and hold-ing onto Colin on another windy day on Mam Tor Richard G

Sunday 9th November 2025 6:00am Stanage Edge

Cost of this walk is £17.00 for members and £19.00 for visitors

Walk Organiser – Keith Richards

The escarpments in the Peak District are known as ‘edges’ and they are stunning natural wonders; they are literally a sheer wall of rock with heather blossoming in the summer months. The most famous of the gritstone edges are Stanage, Curbar, Burbage, Froggatt, Baslow, Birchen and Gardom’s all offering spectacular views. Our walks will include most of these edges.

The ‘A’ Walk starts from The Ladybower Inn SK204865) and climbs over Lead Hill and continues north to Salt Cellar, then crosses Derwent Moors then along Stanage Edge to Upper Burbage Bridge, and goes on over Higger Tor, Carl Wark, through the Longshaw Estate, along Froggatt Edge, Curbar Edge then descends to the finish in Calver (SK247744).

Leaders: Carol Gosling and Matthew Lumley

Distance: 27Km Ascent: 800m Descent: 925m

The ‘B1’ Walk also starts from The Ladybower Inn (SK204865) and climbs over Lead Hill then crosses Derwent Moors past Moscar House then along Stanage Edge to Upper Burbage Bridge, and goes on over Higger Tor, Carl Wark, Hathersage Moor then through the Longshaw Estate along Froggatt Edge, Curbar Edge then descends to the finish in Calver (SK247744).

Leaders: Bob Price and Sarah Turner

Distance: 24Km Ascent: 720m Descent: 830m

The ‘B2’ Walk also starts from The Ladybower Inn (SK204865) and climbs past Moscar House then continues along Stanage Edge to Upper Burbage Bridge, and goes over Higger Tor, Carl Wark, Hathersage Moor then through the Longshaw Estate along Froggatt Edge, Curbar Edge then descends to the finish in Calver (SK247744).

Leaders: Heidi Horton and Neville Village

Distance: 22.5Km Ascent: 610m Descent: 715m

The ‘C’ Walk is circular, starting from The Bridge Inn, Calver (SK247744) and climbs to the start of Curbar Edge which is followed to Froggatt Edge then towards the Grouse Inn. Turning south west continues across open moorland to join White Edge which is followed to the minor road proceeding on to Wellington’s Monument then along Baslow Edge, then descends to the finish in Calver (SK247744).

Leaders: Wendy Price and Rob Maule

Distance: 15Km Height Gain: 500m Descent: 500m

Map: 1:25000 Explorer 0L24 The Peak District – White Peak.

Sunday 15th December 2024 7am Goyt Valley Buxton Moors

COACH LEAVES 7.00AM

Walk Organiser – Carol Gosling

This will be our first visit to the Cavendish Golf Club for our annual dinner, giving us access to the hills and moors close to Buxton, which is situated on the edge of the Peak District National Park. All the walks are circular from the golf club.

A Walk

The A party head northwards through Corbar Woods and over Corbar Hill then turn north west to contour round Combs Moss to White Hall Centre. They turn westward, and descend to cross the dam between Fernilee and Errwood reservoirs. They ascend The Street and turn southwards over Foxlow Edge to the ruins of Errwood Hall. They head south to Goyt’s Quarry and then cross the footbridge over the River Goyt, eventually heading north and then north east over Wild Moor. They follow Wildmoorstone Brook and then head south again to climb steeply up to Burbage Edge. Then, depending on time and conditions, they descend to the golf club, either by retracing their steps a short way to Beet Wood and Watson Farm or descending to Burbage and then using the permissive path across the golf course to Watson Farm.

Leaders: Carol Gosling and Matthew Lumley Distance: 23km - Ascent 950 m

B1 Walk

The B1 party cross the golf course to Watford Farm and then ascend through Beet Wood to reach the blocked tunnel of the former Cromford and High Peak Railway. They then follow the path of the disused railway to Goyt’s Lane car park before descending to cross the dam between Fernilee and Errwood Reservoirs. They ascend The Street to Pym Chair and then turn southwards over Cat Tor to Shining Tor. They descend eastwards to cross the River Goyt and then cross the moors to Burbage and on to the golf club.

Leaders: Bob Price and Ian Broughton Distance: 19.8 km- Ascent 770m

B2 Walk

The B2 party head northwards through Corbar Woods and over Corbar Hill then turn north west to contour round Combs Moss to White Hall Centre. They turn westwards and descend to cross the dam between Fernilee and Errwood Reservoirs. They ascend the Street and then turn southwards over Foxlow Edge to the ruins of Errwood Hall. They head south to Goyt’s Quarry, cross the River Goyt and climb eastwards over the moors before descending to Burbage and back to the golf club.

Leaders: Keith and Elaine Richards Distance: 17km – Ascent 740m

C Walk

The C party cross the golf course to Watford Farm and then ascend through Beet Wood to reach the blocked tunnel of the former Cromford and High Peak railway. They then follow the path of the disused railway to Goyt’s Lane car park and continue north westwards before turning south west to descend to the Errwood Reservoir. They then follow the River Goyt before turning eastwards over Goyt’s Moss to reach Burbage and the golf club.

Leaders: Wendy Price and Neville Village Distance: 14km –Ascent 485m

Map: Explorer 24 White Peak Area

Sunday 16th February 2025 6:00 am The Quantocks

Walk Organiser – Carol Gosling

Cost of this months walk is £18 members £20 non members

The Quantock Hills run from the Vale of Taunton Deane in the south, for about 24 km to the north–west, ending at Kilve and West Quantoxhead, almost at the Bristol Channel. Characterised by deep wooded valleys or “combes”, open heathland and rolling hills, their diverse landscape is ideal for walking. Our walks will explore the ancient bridleways and paths leading to and then following the ancient ridge.

All walks finish just south of Holford in a large lay by (ST157 408) and involve some stream crossings on the final descent to Holford. No wet feet on the recce but it is recommended to have some dry socks on the coach just in case!

A Walk starts at Norton Manor Camp and then heads northwards using footpaths, bridleways and quiet lanes to the summit of Cothelstone Hill. They continue north-westwards on the Macmillan Way West to Wills Neck –at 384 metres, it is the highest point on the Quantocks. They continue on the Macmillan Way West where they detour to the summit of Black Hill and then onwards to Bicknoller Post and Beacon Hill. They head due north to descend Smiths Combe before turning east and then south to make their way back to the coach, using a selection of the many paths available.

Leaders Paul Green and Tom Somervell Distance 25k –Ascent 860m

B1 Walk begins at Seven Ash and then using footpaths, bridleways and quiet lanes, heads east to West Bagborough, then north to join the Macmillan Way West and west to Wills Neck. At 384 metres, this is the highest point on the Quantocks. They follow the same route as the A party back to Holford.

Leaders: Bob Price and Louise Tidman Distance 19.5km- Ascent 720m

B2 Walk starts on the A358 (ST137 360) just south of Crowcombe, heads east to Little Quantock Farm and then contours at the base of Great Hill to Triscombe Farm. There is then a very steep ascent to Wills Neck – at 384 metres it is the highest point on the Quantocks. They continue on the Macmillan Way West where they detour to the summit of Black Hill and then onwards to Bicknoller Post and Beacon Hill. They head due north to descend Smiths Combe before turning east to follow the Coleridge Way back to the coach.

Leaders Neville Village and Richard Gosling Distance 17.5k – Ascent 680m

C Walk starts on the A358 (ST137 360) just south of Crowcombe, heads east to Little Quantock Farm and then contours at the base of Great Hill to Triscombe Farm. They follow the lane southwards for a short distance before ascending to Wills Neck, the highest point on the Quantocks. They continue on the Macmillan Way West where they detour to the summit of Black Hill, then onwards past Lowsey Thorn to turn eastwards on Black Ball Hill. They descend through Slaughterhouse Combe, criss-crossing the stream several times, to Hodders Combe and back to the coach.

Leaders: Wendy Price and Rus Khalid Distance - 14.5km – Ascent 530m

Map: Explorer 140 Quantock Hills and Bridgwater

Memories from the 50 years of Hill Walking Club

......the very efficient reaction of security officers when a member went too close to Chequers to get a photo Heather M

Friday 28th February– Monday 3rd March 2025 Club Weekend Lake District

We will be returning to the Glaramara Hotel in Borrowdale. This is in a superb location, with access to some of the highest Lakeland fells directly from the hotel. Borrowdale is one of the most beautiful valleys in England, which has inspired artists and poets, such as Wordsworth.

Details From………...…………………………………….………….Tom Somervell

Memories from the 50 years of Hill Walking Club

............Bob, Carol and me struggling up an extremely steep, near vertical hill on a Howgills recce, only to look at the map and find we should be on the next hill. Richard G

Sunday 13th April 2025 6:00am The Brecon Beacons

Walk Organisers – Wendy and Bob Price

(Cost of this walk is £18.00 for members and £20.00 for visitors)

The Brecon Beacons is made up of six main peaks, which from west to east are: Corn Du, 873m; Pen y Fan, the highest peak, 886m; Cribyn, 795m; Fan y Big, 719m; Bwlch y Ddwyallt, 754m; and Waun Rydd, 769m. These summits form a long ridge and are most impressive viewed from the Vale of Usk to the north with the summits rising above deep cwms split by long thin ridges.

The A Walk starts at the Storey Arms (SN987200) following the Cambrian Way climbs to the Obelisk at Craig Cwm Llwch, before ascending to Corn Du and then Pen y Fan, the highest point of the day. The walk proceeds to follow the ridge over the summits of Cribyn and Fan y Big, then continues eastwards around the Cwm to Bwlch y Ddwyallt before swinging south eastwards past Waun Rydd to the WW2 memorial. The descent begins over Cwar y Gigfran and around to Allt Lwyd, and continues to the Talybont Reservoir. The Taff Trail is then followed back to the finish at Talybont-on-Usk. (SO113228).

Leaders: Carol Gosling and Ranjit Bindarh

Distance: 21km Ascent: 1075m Descent: 1390m

The B1 Walk also starts at the Storey Arms (SN987200) following the Cambrian Way climbs to the Obelisk at Craig Cwm Llwch before ascending to Corn Du and onto Pen y Fan, the highest point of the day. The walk proceeds to follow the ridge over the summits of Cribyn and Fan y Big. Then continues eastwards along the ridge around the cwm to Bwlch y Ddwallt past Waun Rydd and steeply descends from Carn Pica to join the Taff Trail which is followed back to Talybont-on-Usk. (SO113228)

Leaders: Paul Burns and Louise Tidman

Distance: 18.5km Ascent: 960m Descent: 1280m

The B2 Walk also starts at the Storey Arms (SN987200) and climbs to Bwlch Duwynt, before ascending to Corn Du and continuing to Pen y Fan, the highest point of the day. The walk proceeds to follow the ridge omitting the summit of Cribyn and continuing to Fan y Big then moves eastwards along the ridge around the cwm to Bwlch y Ddwallt past Waun Rydd and steeply descends from Carn Pica to join the Taff Trail which is followed back to Talybont-on-Usk. (SO113228)

Leaders: Bob Price and Richard Gosling

Distance: 17.6km Ascent: 810m Descent: 1120m

The C Walk is circular and starts in Talybont-on-Usk (SO113228). Heading south west through Aber the walk turns west and climbs steeply to the summit of Carn Pica and continues past Waun Rydd to meet the escarpment at Rhiw Bwlch y Ddwyallt. Turning north east descends to Pen y Bryn quarries, from there turns south east and gradually descends entering the Talybont Forest to join the Usk Valley Walk; quiet lanes are then followed back to the finish at Talybont-on-Usk.

Leaders: Wendy Price and Rus Khalid

Distance: 16.5km Ascent: 700m Descent: 700m

Map: Explorer OL 12: Brecon Beacons Western Area Explorer OL17.

Memories from the 50 years of Hill Walking Club

….. Bob ,slipping in a very wet, muddy patch on our descent from Red Screes on a Lakes recce-and then, at my rather tongue in cheek suggestion, rolling on the grass to clean up. Carol G

Sunday 11th May 2025 6:00am High Street Area

Cost of this walk is £20.00 for members and £22.00 for visitors

Walk Organisers – Wendy and Bob Price

High Street is a fell in the Lake District. At 828 metres, its summit is the highest point in the far eastern part of the national park. It is located southwest of Ullswater and it is one of the most visited in this quiet part of the Lakes. The fell is named after the Roman road which snaked its broad back and ran over the summit. All walks finish at The Brotherswater Inn (NY403119).

The A Walk starts from near Hartsop (NY405132) and climbs steeply to the summit of Hartsop Dodd then follows the ridge to the summit of Stoney Cove Pike, from there descends gradually then very steeply via a scramble to Threshthwaite Mouth. The walk climbs steeply after that along a loose rocky path to Thornthwaite Beacon then across undulating fells over the summits of High Street (at 828m the highest point of the day), The Knott, Rest Dodd and Angle Tarn Pikes. The walk then descends via Boredale Hause to Brotherswater and proceeds to the finish at The Brotherswater Inn.

Leaders: Carol Gosling and Tom Somervell Distance: 19km Ascent: 1190m Descent: 1180m

The B1 Walk starts at The Brotherswater Inn and climbs steeply to the summit of Caudale Moor and Stoney Cove Pike, after which descends gradually then very steeply by means of a scramble to Threshthwaite Mouth. The walk climbs steeply after that along a loose rocky path to Thornthwaite Beacon then across undulating fells over the summits of High Street (at 828m the highest point of the day) The Knott and Satura Crag. The walk then continues to Angle Tarn Pikes and descends via Boredale Hause towards Hartsop and proceeds to the finish at The Brotherswater Inn.

Leaders: Bob Price and Keith Richards Distance: 16.5km Ascent: 1025m Descent: 1025m

The B2 Walk is circular and starts at The Brotherswater Inn passing Brotherswater and continuing through Hartsop and gradually ascending along the valley track towards Hayeswater, crosses the foot bridge and climbs to the summit of The Knott. The walk proceeds to Rampsgill Head followed by the summits of Kidsy Pike, High Street (at 828m the highest point of the day) and Thornthwaite Crag. A loose, steep, rocky descent follows to Threshthwaite Mouth, the walk then climbs to Stoney Cove Pike via a steep easy scramble continuing over Caudale Moor, followed by a steep descent to the finish at The Brotherswater Inn.

Leaders: Ian Broughton and Neville Village Distance: 15.5km Ascent: 1020m Descent: 1020m

The C Walk also starts from near Hartsop (NY405132) and gradually ascends along the valley track towards Hayeswater, crosses the foot bridge turns NE and climbs to join the path from the Knott. The walk then continues to Satura Crag past Angle Tarn and climbs to the summit of Angle Tarn Pikes, then descends via Boredale Hause towards Hartsop and proceeds to the finish at The Brotherswater Inn.

Leaders: Wendy Price and Rus Khalid Distance: 12km Ascent: 550m Descent: 530m

Map: Explorer OL 5: English Lakes – North Eastern Area.

Memories from the 50 years of Hill Walking Club

...the coach driver taking us over the Grade II listed historic bridge at Hay-on-Wye with a weight limit of 7.5tons, to be met by an irate toll keeper and issued with a hefty fine. Carol G

All Those Years Ago!

The seed was sown in the Autumn of 1973 when Ken Smithem was asked to arrange walks for a few interested colleagues in the Lucas electronics factory at Mere Green. Having thought he had discouraged them with the scramble up Tryfan they came back for more, so the idea of a club was formed. At an inaugural meeting, which was so well attended that it filled the whole canteen area, the Lucas Fellwalking and Rambling Club was born. Representatives from the nine main midlands factory areas were elected to produce a programme of walks.

The cold, 20 - seater coach for the first club walk, left the Great King Street factory on 17th February 1974, bound for Lathkill Dale. In this first year. members' subs were deducted from their monthly wages. Finding this arrangement less than satisfactory, the club was dissolved at its first AGM in February 1975, and reopened to all-comers as the Hill Walking Club - a double entendre reflecting the Hill Village area of its origin as well as our intention of being much more than a rambling club.

>Ray Siddell was the first chairman, and Stan Patchett designed the first club badge which is still seen on a few rucksacks, and now on the website. Little remains in the club archive from that very early period, but an entry from May 1975 details two walks interestingly described as a 'Ramble' and a 'Fell Walk'. The Ramble led by Joy and Ken Madeley took walkers from Patterdale, along Grisedale to finish at Grasmere. The Fell Walk led by Stan Bellaby and (of course!) Ken Smithem, was over St Sunday Crag, offering walkers a chance to watch fell runners on the Fairfield Horseshoe.

Many friendships, marriages, subgroups for weekly walks and backpacking have been generated from the contacts through the Club – we all have that common interest at heart.

May it long continue.

Ken

How do I contact the club for more information?	Use the contact email link at the top of this page, and we will get back to you. It would be useful if you leave a phone number.
Can I come on the next walk?	Use the email link at the top of this page and we will get back to you about coach availability, please leave a phone number
Where do you meet?	The coach picks us up from the car park in Mere Green.
How do I become a member?	The Club Rules require that a prospective member would normally have to complete 2 "B" walks succesfully to be eligible for club membership.
What fitness level is required?	A good level of fitness is required as all walks are in mountainous and sometimes remote areas.An average "B" walk is 18 kilometres in length and 900 metres of ascent, depending on the terrain,to be completed in about 6 hrs
What equipment is needed?	Please refer to the "Safety & Kit" link
What do I wear?	Please refer to the "Safety & Kit" link
How much does it cost?	The annual membership at present is £20. The coach costs vary, depending on the distance travelled, but is generally between £17 and £22.
Is there an age limit?	We don't have an upper age limit, -as long as you are fit enough to do the walks, thats fine. We do have a lower age limit of 18.
Can I take my dog on the walks?	No, we don't have dogs on our Sunday walks.

Hill Walking Club takes your privacy seriously and is committed to ensuring that all personal information handled by the club is processed according to the legally compliant standards of the General Data Protection Regulations which came into force on 25thMay 2018. As a “controller” of the personal information that you provide to us, this privacy notice sets out how, why and for how long we will use your personal data, as well as whom it is shared with. It also explains your legal rights as a data subject and how to exercise them.

What we need from you

When you join as a member of Hill Walking Club or renew your membership, we may ask you the following personal information:

Contact details – name, address, email address, phone number and emergency contact details.

If you do not provide us with the personal information that we need this may affect our ability to offer you our membership services.

When we collect your data, we will ask your consent to use it in different ways e.g. preferred means of contact. We will only use your personal data in ways you have given us permission to do so.

Why we need your personal information

Administration

We collect and use personal data solely for administrative purposes in order to help us carry out our services to members.

This includes:

Receiving membership subscriptions.
Issuing membership renewal reminders
Maintaining a contact database of our committee, leaders and members and their contact permissions.
Fulfilling coach bookings placed on-line, over the phone or in person.
AGM and Committee notices
Organising club activities including recces.
Reasons of safety on the hills in the event of difficulties or emergency
Banking officers will have access to bank details when required.

Legitimate purposes

We may also share personal information with professional and legal advisors for the purpose of obtaining advice.

We respect your privacy and will not sell or disclose your personal information to any third party, including other walking groups locally or nationally.

How we protect your personal information

Your personal information is accessed by our committee, only for the purposes set out above. It is stored by our club in a password protected computer database and paper based filing systems which are securely stored.

How long we keep your personal information

We only keep your personal information for as long as necessary to provide you with membership services. Unless you ask us not to, we will review and delete your personal information where you have not renewed your membership with us for one year.

You have a right to:

Change your communication preferences or restrict the processing of your personal data for specific purposes.
Request that we correct your personal data if you believe it is inaccurate or incomplete.
Request that we delete your personal information.
Access the personal data that we hold about you through a “subject access request”.

You can contact us by e-mail at: walking@hwcsc.co.uk

Complaints

If you are unhappy about how we have used your data, you can complain to the Honorary Secretary of the club

If you are not happy with our response, or you believe that your data protection or privacy rights have been infringed, you can complain to the UK Information Commissioner’s Office which regulates and enforces data protection law in the UK. Details of how to do this can be found at www.ico.org.uk

Notification of change of Privacy Policy

Hill Walking Club reserves the right to amend this Privacy Policy at any time. Notice of any change will be posted on our website and will be deemed effective on publication.

Honorary Secretary

Hill Walking Club

August 2018

A well-equipped walker is a safe walker. In order to ensure our safety, and also to meet the requirements of our insurance policy, we would ask all members to take note of the following:

Members must wear appropriate clothing on all walks. In summer, if wearing shorts, it is recommended that long trousers should also be carried along with adequate clothing to protect the back of the neck and arms. Several different layers are better than one, as they are more flexible. Please be aware of the mountain weather in the area where the walk is taking place.

Clothes must be able to adapt to changeable mountain weather. Tops and trousers will be more comfortable made from lightweight fabrics designed to keep you warm in winter or cool in summer. These fabrics often draw moisture away from your body keeping you more comfortable. Thick cotton or woollen garments should be avoided as they are likely to get very wet, taking a long time to dry. Jeans are not allowed.

You will be out for a whole day, with no scheduled visits to food shops. You need sufficient calories to get you up the hills!

Any two members of the committee reserve the right to refuse a seat on the coach to any person they deem unsuitably dressed.

ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT

Rucksack. (Do not share).

Complete set of good quality waterproofs. (Jacket and over trousers)

Hat.

Gloves.

Walking Boots with a good ankle support and well cleated soles (Trainers or Approach Shoes are not acceptable).

Whistle

Adequate food and drink for the time out.

Flask of hot drink (especially in winter).

Plenty of water to stop you getting dehydrated (especially in summer).

Clean shoes to change into after the walk (to avoid wearing muddy boots on the coach)

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT

Compass

Torch

Appropriate maps of the walk

Personal first aid kit (A comprehensive first aid kit is carried by the leaders on each walk)

Sun cream (Even in winter, the sun can burn!)

Survival bag

Extra warm top

Spare socks

Gaiters

Change of dry clothing that can be left on the coach.

Some people may find walking poles useful

IF YOU HAVE ANY MEDICAL CONDITION, WHICH COULD AFFECT YOU ON A WALK, YOU MUST LET A MEMBER OF THE COMMITTEE KNOW.

		Carol the "Chair" (Likes to be addressed as Sir)
	Bob, our membership secretary
		Tom, the club secretary
	Ian, our treasurer
		Wendy
	Anne(Co-opted)
		Rob
	Keith
		Neville

AUTUMN NEWSLETTER 2025

Well done if you spotted that there was no summer newsletter -there was no significant news to report!

Autumn is with us again with colder days and darker evenings on the horizon. Please be prepared for more changeable conditions on the tops and make sure you have appropriate clothing. Make yourself aware of the weather forecast for the area we are visiting -more specific mountain forecasts are available on Mountain Weather Information Service (MWIS) or Met Office Mountain Weather.

Look forward to seeing you on the final three walks of 2025.

THE FUTURE OF THE CLUB

As we approach the end of our 50th year, our thoughts turn to the future of the club. Unfortunately in the last few years, several of our long standing regular leaders have stood down due to relocation, health or injury issues or age. On more than one walk this year it has been a real struggle to get a full complement of leaders and despite trying to spread the load, it often means the same people are making that commitment. We need members to come forward to join us on recces to gain experience as walk leaders and to find out more about how walks are organised, with a view to becoming future committee members whose duties would then include the day to day running of the club, attending recces, leading and planning walks. If you are interested in becoming a future committee member and becoming more involved in the club or if you would like more information, then please email Carol randc.gos@tiscali.co.uk or speak to a committee member.

AUTUMN WEEKEND SEPTEMBER 2025

Forty four participants enjoyed this year’s coastal walking weekend in Weymouth . (More than twice the numbers that attended the last weekend in this area in 2011!!) On Saturday the group boarded a coach to Lulworth Cove and after surviving a brief surprise rainstorm, embarked on the switchback route over the cliffs back to Weymouth. Anyone who previously thought coastal walking lacks challenge soon saw their error as they tackled the ups and downs, but the sun came out and afforded us iconic coastal views and all were able to take part at their own pace.

The public bus timetable behaved itself on Sunday and took us to the quirky “isle” of Portland for a club walk like no other. We took in the olympic sailing venue, two prisons and the industrial Portland stone quarry legacy, before enjoying the impressive sight of Portland Bill lighthouse and crab sandwiches from the Lobster Pot cafe in the sunshine. After lunch a hidden sculpture park proved fascinating and we had impressive views of Chesil beach. Most enjoyed a few beers from The Cove Inn by the beach to finish. It was generally agreed that the Crown Hotel gave excellent service and value for money. It was in a great central location and enabled participants to enhance their break by enjoying the delights of Weymouth, whether it was a quick dip in the ocean, some retail therapy or one of the many pubs with live music.

The weekend was hailed as a great success and may thanks were afforded to Roger Needle for his generously given time and thought with regard to the organisation.

DECEMBER WALK AND MEAL SUNDAY DECEMBER 14th 2025

The annual dinner will follow the December walk and will be held at the Wild Pheasant Hotel Llangollen.

You should have all received an email from Carol regarding this year’s Christmas dinner. Please make your menu choices and request your place as soon as possible. We do require payment in full of £45(non members £50) for the December walk & meal on or before October 31st. Many of you have indicated you wish to come but have not made menu choices or paid.

YOU ARE NOT COUNTED IN THE NUMBERS UNTIL YOU HAVE PAID AND CHOSEN YOUR MEAL

Further details of the arrangements for the day will be sent out to attendees nearer the day.

Please contact Carol randc.gos@tiscali.co.uk or the club via the website if you wish to come.

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION AND PLEA FROM TREASURER

Membership fees for 2026 become due on 1st January and will remain at £20 for 2026.

You are welcome to pay these earlier if you wish but it would be really helpful to our treasurer if you clearly indicate with any bank payment what you are paying eg subs, Dec walk, Lakes weekend etc as well as your name to help identify exactly what is being paid for and to aid tracing any payments in the account.

LAKES WEEKEND – FEBRUARY 27th - MARCH 2nd 2026

In 2026 by popular demand, we will be returning to the Glaramara Hotel at Seatoller in Borrowdale for our Lakes winter weekend. Visited by the club in 2022, 2023 and 2025, this is a superb hotel in a prime location in the very heart of the Lake District. There are wonderful walks among the highest fells right from the hotel entrance.

We already have more than 35 people who have signed up, and rooms for them have been reserved. One reserved double room has now become available due to a cancellation, and the hotel may still have other rooms free. So, if you haven't signed up, but would like to come, please contact the weekend organiser, Tom Somervell (tomsomervell@gmail.com) as soon as possible (a £50 non-refundable deposit will be required per person).

Balances due will be required in January and Tom will be in touch by email with the amounts to pay nearer the time.

AUTUMN WEEKEND FRIDAY OCTOBER 9th– MONDAY OCTOBER 12th 2026

In 2026 the club will be staying at the Belgrave Hotel, Tenby and will be walking parts of the Pembrokeshire coast path. For further details and to request a place please email Roger Needle rwneedle@hotmail.com as soon as possible, to aid Roger with organising the weekend. Be aware places are limited and deposits of £30 are required to confirm your place.

DATES FOR YOUR CALENDAR.

The dates for 2026 are below. Destinations are yet to be finalised.

January 18th Sunday Walk

February 15th Sunday Walk

February 17th Tuesday AGM

Feb 27th- March2nd Winter weekend, Glaramara Hotel

March 22nd Sunday Walk

April 19th Sunday Walk

May 17th Sunday Walk

June 14th Sunday Walk

July 12th Sunday Walk

August 16th Sunday Walk

September 13th Sunday Walk

October 9th-12th Autumn Weekend, Tenby

October 18th Sunday Walk

November 15th Sunday Walk

December 13th tbc Sunday Walk & Dinner

HILL WALKING CLUB MEMBERSHIP ANNIVERSARIES

Bob Price, our membership secretary, has again been reviewing the club records to find those who have reached a significant anniversary (multiples of 5 years) in their years of membership.

In 2025 the following members will have completed:

5 Years.

Tony Herring

Paul White

10 Years.

Tony Francis

Gerald Gain

Ravinder Kalkat

Maninder Kalkat

Darryl Lilburn

Tony Millard

Barbara Twort

Alex Wilkins

15 Years.

Natalie Haycox

Dennis Haycox

Petra Knowles

Nigel Summers

25 Years

Pauline Rooker

50 Years

Graham Millin

Ken Smithem

FUND RAISING REMINDERS

EASY FUNDRAISING

The club has now received £200 in donations since we signed up to Easy Fundraising, an encouraging amount from only 9 supporters. It could be more if more of you signed up and requested donations for us.

There are many companies who will donate to us if you shop on line with them. Some well known ones are Tesco, Sainsburys, Ocado, Amazon, Marks and Spencer, John Lewis, Go Outdoors, Booking.com etc

It really is very easy to use and it costs you nothing. Some donations are only pence, but they all add up

Use the below link to have a look at Easyfundraising, join up and lets see if we can make some money for the club. There is also a link button on the top right of our website.

https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/hillwalkingclubsc/?utm_campaign=raise-more&utm_medium=email&utm_content=gs-e1

THE WALKING PARTNERSHIP

Don’t forget, if you do book a Ramblers holiday, please nominate the Hill Walking Club through the Walking Partnership we have with Ramblers Holidays. They then provide a financial contribution to the club.

Take a look at their website on www.ramblersholidays.co.uk

QUOTE OF THE QUARTER

The greatest wealth is health - Virgil, Roman poet.

Hill Walking Club

Constitution

1 The Club shall be called the Hill Walking Club, hereafter to be referred to as ‘the Club’ and shall be affiliated to the Ramblers’ Association.
2 Objects: To foster and promote challenging walks in hill country, providing opportunities for recreation and leisure.
3 Membership: The following are eligible for membership:
3.1 Membership of the Club shall be open to any person of 18yrs or above, completing a membership application form and paying the relevant subscription as determined by the Annual General Meeting, and who has completed two walks with the Club, to the satisfaction of the Committee.
3.2 There shall be 2 classes of membership available. These are:
3.2.1 Full Member
3.2.2 Honorary Member
4. Expulsion of Members: Members of the Club whose conduct is inappropriate or who decline to abide by any of the Club Rules may be expelled or suspended by a resolution passed at a meeting of the Committee where their subscription may be forfeited. Members shall have a right to appeal in person to the Committee with regard to any decision affecting them, provided that notice of such appeal is submitted to the Secretary, in writing, within seven days of the notification of the decision.
5. Officers and Committee Members: There will be nine members of the Club committee, three of which shall hold the offices of Chairperson, Secretary, and Treasurer.
6. Election of Officers and Committee:
6.1 All Committee members shall be elected for a period of three years. The elections shall be staggered in order to maintain continuity within the Committee.
6.2 Each year, any member of the Club may offer him/herself for election to the Committee, provided that a proposed and seconded application form is received by the Committee 60 days prior to the AGM.
Elections shall take place at the Annual General Meeting.
6.3 The officers shall be decided by the Committee.
7. Duties of the Committee:
7.1 The affairs of the Club shall be controlled by the Committee. The Committee shall meet at agreed intervals, and not less than twelve times per year.
7.2 The duties of the Committee shall be:
7.2.1 To control the affairs of the Club on behalf of the members.
7.2.2 To keep accurate records of the finances of the Club through the Treasurer. These shall be available for reasonable inspection by members, and should be externally reviewed before every Annual General Meeting. The Club shall maintain a bank account and the following officers shall be authorised to sign Club cheques: two from the Chairperson, Treasurer, and Secretary.
7.2.3 To co-opt additional members to the Committee if the Committee feels this is necessary. Co-opted members shall not be entitled to a vote on the Committee.
7.2.4 To make decisions on the basis of a simple majority vote.
8. General Meetings:
8.1 The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Club shall be held not later than the end of February each year. At least 60 days written notice of the AGM shall be given to members. Members must advise the Secretary in
writing of any business to be moved at the AGM at least 30 days before the meeting. A copy of the Agenda shall be sent to members not less than 7 days before the meeting.

8.2 The business of the AGM shall be to:
8.2.1 Receive and confirm the minutes of the previous AGM and any Special General Meetings held since the last AGM from the Secretary.
8.2.2 Receive the externally reviewed accounts for the year from the Treasurer.
8.2.3 Receive the annual report of the Club’s activities from theChairperson.
8.2.4 Elect Committee members as necessary.
8.2.5 Transact such business received in writing by the Secretary from members 30 days prior to the meeting and included on the agenda.
8.2.6 Accept, from members, items of Any Other Business which do not require a vote.
8.3 Special General Meetings may be convened by the Committee or on receipt by the Secretary of a request in writing, from not less than 5 Full Members of the Club. At least 30 days notice of the meeting shall be given.
8.4 At all General Meetings, the chair will be taken by the Chairperson or, in their absence, by a deputy appointed by the Committee.
8.5 Decisions taken at a General Meeting shall be by a single majority vote.
8.6 A quorum for a General Meeting shall be 16 members.
8.7 Each Full Member of the Club shall be entitled to one vote at
General Meetings.
9. Alterations to the Constitution: Any proposed alterations to the Club Constitution may only be considered at the Annual or a Special General Meeting, convened with the required notice of the proposal. Any alteration or amendment must be proposed by a Full Member of the Club, and seconded by another Full Member. Such alterations may be passed subject to conditions 8.5 and 8.6.
10. Dissolution:
10.1 If at any General Meeting of the Club, a resolution be passed calling for dissolution of the Club, the Secretary shall immediately convene a Special General Meeting to be held not less than 30 days
thereafter to discuss and vote on the resolution.
10.2 If at that Special General Meeting, the resolution is carried by a simple majority, the General Committee shall thereupon, or at such date as shall have been specified in the resolution, proceed to realize the assets of the Club and discharge all debts and liabilities of the Club.
10.3 After discharging all debts and liabilities of the Club, the remaining
assets shall not be paid or distributed amongst the members of the Club,
but shall be given or transferred to some other organisation or organizations having objectives similar to those of the Club.

Hill Walking Club

Rules

1 The annual subscription is set by the Committee and will run from 1st January to 31st December.
2 The Club requires that all members participating in full day walks are equipped according to the requirements outlined in the document which they receive when accepted for membership. Failure to do this could result in being excluded from the walk, and possible expulsion from the Club.
3 Members will have priority booking up to 10 days before the day of the walk. After that, any remaining seats will be made available to non-members. The fare for the day becomes due in full at the time of booking and should be paid into the Club bank account by 8pm on the Thursday, 10 days before the walk. Booking is not confirmed until payment is made. If the seat is cancelled later than 8pm on the Thursday 10 days prior to the walk, the fare will still be payable unless the coach is full and the seat is resold.
4 The coach will leave Mere Green at the time stated in the programme. Refunds will not be available for those who miss it.
5 In the event of the coach being oversubscribed, members who sign on waiting lists for a walk must accept the Committee’s decisions re priority. It is the member’s responsibility to contact the Secretary before the walk to confirm or reject their place on the coach.
6 Visitors and guests are welcome on full day walks at the discretion of the Committee, having given prior notice. They will be charged a visitor’s fare and be expected to adopt the rules regarding walking and equipment.
7 During the walk, it is the responsibility of all walkers to accept the guidance of the leaders, respect the countryside codes and maintain a corporate responsibility which ensures a safe and successful day for all participants.
8 Members on walks must inform the leaders if they are aware of any medical condition or other reasons which might affect the successful completion of the walk.

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February 2024 Amazing end of day reflections of Wasdale Head

February 2024 Sonia Getting a helping hand

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