Walks Information and Safety

Please read the following to ensure your pleasure and safety on walks

1. ​Changes from the Walk Programme:

Walks may be modified at the leader’s discretion. Walks are rarely cancelled owing to weather conditions but if the weather appears particularly inclement for a walk then contact the leader to ascertain the situation. If you are travelling a long distance or are not a member of Aberystwyth Group please contact the walk leader to check the walk has not been cancelled or altered due to unforseen circumstances (accident, illness etc), in order to avoid disappointment and an unnecessary journey.

2. Transport:

•  Buses leave Aberystwyth from the Aberystwyth Bus Station, Alexandra Road. Bus time tables may change so check bus times with the leader
• Unless otherwise indicated the meeting place is at the Plascrug Leisure Centre, Llanbadarn Fawr, Aberystwyth SY23 1HL where there is also free parking.
• Meeting centrally will ensure that the number of cars taken can be reduced and will provide transport for those without cars. If you do not have your own transport please contact the leader who will normally be able to arrange for you to have a lift. Often there is limited parking at the start of the walk – please go to the Leisure Centre if at all possible.

3. Grades of Walk

• A Strenuous. Experience of hill walking desirable. Will involve steep ascents and descents; mileages shown should not be taken as an indication of effort.
• B Moderate. May involve steep ascents and descents, but not prolonged.
• C Flat or gentle gradients.
• D Easy walks taken at a slow pace.

4. Food and Equipment: 

On short walks please bring a snack and a drink. On longer walks, bring sufficient food and drink for the day. All routes will be muddy and rough, so suitable footwear must be worn (stout shoes or walking boots). Waterproof clothing is essential and is best carried in a small rucksack.

4. Leader’s Responsibilities:  

Leaders have an enhanced duty of care to the entire walking group. Therefore if the leader is concerned that a walker poses a potential risk to themselves or to the group as a whole, they may not allow that walker to join the group walk. Examples might be if the walker is inappropriately dressed or there are concerns about their physical ability to undertake the walk. If in doubt consult the leader.

5. First Aid: 

A First Aid kit is carried by leaders but no medication, ointment or spray is available.

6. ​No Dogs Please:  

On all walks we will encounter sheep therefore the Group requests walkers not to bring their dogs. An exception would be made for Registered Assistance Dogs, in which case the Walk Leader should be contacted to ensure the walk is suitable (access over stiles etc).

7. Ramblers Membership: 

Non-members are welcome on Ramblers’ walks but are asked to join the Association after 3 walks.