What we do

Key contacts

Chair: Justin - fandhchair@gmail.com 

Secretary: Jenny - jenniferpitkin2000@hotmail.com  

Membership: Liz - fhmemsec@gmail.com

Treasurer: Jane - jane.gibs@gmail.com 

Walks: Stella - stellajane100@gmail.com  

Walks

We aim to put on weekly walks; new walks continue to be added to our programme, so do check back for updates.

If you are planning to join us, or want to know more about walks, check out these FAQ's:

Finchley & Hornsey (F&H) Ramblers – Frequently Asked Questions

How do I join Ramblers?

Visit the main Ramblers website www.ramblers.org.uk or the website for Finchley & Hornsey viz: www.ramblers.org.uk/finchley-hornseyScroll down the page to see the options for joining.  You can also download and use the Ramblers App. NB there is a discount for taking out a Direct Debit.

In what area are the F&H walks?

Walks are mostly circular in the Chilterns, Hertfordshire and neighbouring counties. We suggest you check the F&H website or Ramblers App frequently, since new walks can be posted at short notice

How long are the walks and on what days are they scheduled?

Walks vary in length from about 5 to 10+ miles and average 2 miles per hour, including stops.  The start time is usually 10.30am – but check the website for details. Walks take place at weekends, normally every Sunday, but also occasionally on weekdays, usually Wednesdays.

What is the age range for Ramblers F&H Group?

All ages are welcome (those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult). Currently, most members in the Group are over 50.

How do I get to the start of a walk?

Many of our walks are accessible by public transport (bus, rail or tube). If not, and you don’t have a car, you can usually arrange to carshare with another member.

What do I need to bring on a walk?

A good pair of walking boots/shoes, waterproof jacket & walking trousers (not jeans), a warm fleece and a backpack with a drink and food/snacks for lunch. A walking pole (or two) is also a good idea, especially if it likely to be muddy or icy. NB Members can also bring their dogs on Ramblers walks.

Can I try out any walks with Ramblers beforehand?

You can try out up to 2/3 walks before being required to take out formal membership. Once you are a fully paid-up member, and if you have a smartphone, you can join the F&H WhatsApp group to access useful information, such as changes to walks, lifts and photos. 

Do I need to inform anyone in the F&H Group if I am intending to come on a walk?

It would probably be a good idea to email or call the walk leader (contact details on the website entry) to let them know if you are intending to join a walk. 

What information can I expect to receive once I join Ramblers?

You will be sent a Newsletter from Ramblers Central Office once a month, and a Newsletter from F&H Group four times a year. These will be sent by email, if you have one.  If not, F&H Group will post their Newsletter to you.  In addition, you will receive Walk magazine by post from Head Office. The F&H Group is part of Ramblers Hertfordshire & North Middlesex area and you will also receive a copy of Stile magazine twice a year by post.

Does Ramblers run holidays?

The F&H Group normally runs two holidays a year – one in the spring/early summer and one in the autumn (usually September). The walk leaders plan the itinerary, but each individual member is responsible for booking their own accommodation. For worldwide holidays, visit the website www.rambleworldwide.co.uk. Ramble Worldwide is a walking holiday company closely associated with the Ramblers.

Read the latest Letter from our Chair - April 2025:

 

Dear Members

New people

In the first quarter of the year we’ve attracted several new members, a good few of whom have joined us on walks.  A warm welcome to all of you.  We also welcome Amir Borghei as a new leader – a step, we hope, that will encourage other members to have a go at leading.

A promising walks programme

The walks programme still has gaps but on the whole is looking good at the moment, with a healthy balance of long and short walks both near to home and farther into the country.  We have Jill Steadman to thank for short walks (7 miles or under) and Steve Carroll for cultural tours as well as, of course, the dedicated leaders who get us deep into the country for the day.

Leaders: Where to get ideas

The Group is taking out a £35 annual subscription to AllTrails+, an online library of walk routes – see Explore and Discover Trails Nearby | AllTrails; contact Justin (see below) for the password, which will be shared with all registered leaders.

Free sources include: Hertfordshire Walker – see Hertfordshire Walker; John Harris’s Walking in England – see England walks to download and print FREE! | Walking in England and the nationwide Walking Britain – see https://www.walkingbritain.co.uk/.  Further suggestions welcome!

Trips this year

  • 10-14 May: Canterbury  It’s not too late to sign up for our first trip this year: three full days of walking, coast and inland, with plenty to see and do in Kent’s county town. The walks programme is now available through the dedicated WhatsApp group and you can do a short version of each walk if you wish.
  • 6-13 September: Tenby, Pembrokeshire  A week of walking based in this pretty coastal town close to fine walking country.

The above dates include a travelling day at each end. Please let Stella or Julia (see above) know if you’re interested ASAP. You’ll need to book your own accommodation.

Questions or suggestions?

Your Chair is always pleased to hear from you, whatever the subject. Email fandhchair@gmail.com or phone 07773 103 839.

Justin Lumley

Chair