Group Etiquette

• When you join a guided walk, the walk will have been designed, checked and reccied by the leader at least once, more likely 2 or 3 times in order to perfect the route for your enjoyment.

• Please follow the leader’s advice and instructions. The leader’s job is to ensure the safety of the whole group as they enjoy the walk. Each individual walks at their own risk, but the leader is responsible for leading the group safely.

• Your leader will, through training and experience, be quick to spot anybody who might not find the walk as easy as others. Remember, we can all walk slower but not everyone can walk faster!

• For this reason, please stay close to the leader who is careful to set a pace that all can manage. Even if you are familiar with the area, you might not know the leader’s chosen route, so please keep the leader in sight. Sometimes leaders will suggest you go ahead and wait somewhere until everyone has caught up AND had a rest. Don’t go on after the designated stopping place until the leader moves on again, then stay behind the leader if they ask you to.

• Your safety is the responsibility of the leader until you all reach the end of the walk.

• You have chosen to walk in a group, so please stay with the group. If you choose to leave, with or without telling the leader, please be advised that the Society can no longer take responsibility for you. If you are unwell or struggling for any reason, tell the leader or back marker and you will be escorted to safety.

• All our leaders are voluntary, doing all the preparation and leading in their own time for no financial gain.