Walking is a great way to keep fit, if you are already fit and a great way to improve your fitness if you feel you need to. Hopefully the following will answer most of your questions.
General Information
If you are trying out a coach ramble
- The coach leaves promptly at the designated times, so aim to be at the pick up point 5 - 10 minutes before departure. A car park fee of £2 per day applies on Saturday but not on Sunday
- You should bring sufficient food and drink for the duration of the walk. We generally stop at a pub or tea shop at the end of the walk before getting on the coach for the return journey.
If you are trying out a Footpath walk.
- Almost all these are accessible by public transport, details are given on the program.
- There are adequate carparking facilities at each meeting point.
- All footpath walks are roughly 4 miles in length and take about 2 hours.
How fast will I have to walk.
- The general rule that your pace should be so that you can see and contact the person in front of and behind you easily. This makes sure that messages can be relayed along the group quickly
- The A group on the coach rambles walks more quickly than the B group.
- The path on the footpath Walks is similar to that of the B coach rambles.

What equipment do I need?
All the walks require that participants wear adequate footwear - boots,wellies, stout walking shoes or trainers designed for walking. Paths can be muddy and stony so light weight trainers won't be suitable. Clothing should be suitable for the season and the terrain. During summer sun protection should always be carried as should adequate supplies of water. For winter walks, make sure that you carry sufficent waterproof clothing and an extra jersey in case the weather deteriorates. If in doubt, then ask for advice when you make your booking.
Remember that weather conditions can vary over a short time, especially in winter.
Many walkers use poles. Some use two, others use one. It is a matter of choice. Sometimes you can have a go at using one before buying. Other walkers do not consider their use is beneficial.
First Aid Kits.
Most walkers carry a small first Aid Kit usually containing elastoplasts, antiseptic cream, tweezers, paracetemol, scissors, anti diarrhoea medicine, sun cream and any other medication you require.
Dogs:
The coach rambles are not suitable for dogs. Dogs can be taken on the footpath walks. The owner is responsible for keeping their dog under control.
The Bolton Group is part of the Ramblers' Association, a company limited by guarantee, Registration Number T 4458492. Registered charity Number 1093577