KENSINGTON, CHELSEA AND WESTMINSTER RAMBLERS' GROUP
INNER LONDON AREA
(www.innerlondonramblers.org.uk)
THE RAMBLERS' ASSOCIATION
Who we are
| The Ramblers' Association
exists to facilitate, for the benefit of everyone, the
enjoyment, discovery and health benefits of travelling on
foot in Britain and to promote respect for the life of
the countryside. The Kensington, Chelsea and Westminster Group was formed in 1991 when more London Groups were needed as a result of expanding membership in the London area. Our members, united by a love of walking, have a wide range of ages, backgrounds and other interests. |
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Our walks' programme
We aim to give full and accurate details of our walks so that members can choose walks to their liking and within their capabilities. We have a programme for almost every Saturday and Sunday, some weekday walks and a weekend away most years. Weekends have been spent in Canterbury, Bath, Church Stretton, Chepstow, Stroud, Malvern, Swanage, Shanklin and Matlock.
Where?
We walk almost anywhere in South East England that is accessible by public transport. In summer most walks are in the country within one hour's train journey. Routes avoid roads as far as possible, using footpaths and bridleways. In winter more walks are in or near London, some with a cultural interest.
How long?
Walks vary in length, from 4 to 18 miles, but the majority are 8 to 14 miles.
How fast?
We have four categories of pace which, with approximate speed over flat ground, are: slow (less than 2.0 mph); easy (2.0-2.5 mph); brisk (2.5-3.0 mph); and fast (over 3.0 mph). Leaders choose the pace to suit the time available for the distance to be walked.
Terrain
Walks are described as flat, undulating or hilly. Mud should be expected except in urban areas. Walking boots are advisable in the country.
Travel to and from the walk
Almost all walks start and end at a railway or Underground station, most on a direct line from a London Terminus. Occasionally a bus is used at the start or end. Although a car can be used to reach the start of a circular walk the majority of members use the designated train.
Meeting for a walk
The official meeting point is the railway or Underground station where the walk starts, but usually ramblers meet up at the London terminus.
Refreshments on walks
| At least half of our walks stop at a pub for lunch, for about one hour. If this is not possible we have a picnic, or café lunch if available. Short breaks for drinks are taken at other times. It is essential to carry adequate liquids. |
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Walk leaders
All walk leaders are volunteers, who have given their time to survey the walk as well as lead it on the day. Each leader chooses his/her own walk, and usually surveys it with another Group member. We are always pleased to hear from people who might lead. If you would like to find out what it involves talk to any leader or the Walks' Organiser.
How to join
If you live in the City of Westminster or Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea, and join the Ramblers' Association, you will automatically be assigned to the Group, and will receive the programme three times a year. You can join the RA on-line (see top for website) or by completing an application form available from the Group Secretary. If you live outside the area you can choose the Group as your main group. Once you have your mebership number contact the Membership Secretary for a copy of the programme.
If you are already an RA member of another Group you can become an Associate Member of Kensington, Chelsea and Westminster Group by sending a cheque for £2.50, payable to the Rambler's Association, to the Membership Secretary, quoting your RA membership number.
If you would like to try a walk or two before joining you are welcome - contact the Walks Organiser or Secretary for details of some suitable walks. Please note that the Walks Organiser does NOT hold copies of the programme for distribution. Walks open to non-members are publicised in the Groups Walks Database at www.ramblers.org.uk/walksfinder
Secretary: Rita Kandela, 33 Bickenhall Mansions, Bickenhall Street, London W1U 6BR (020 7486 7447)
Walks Organiser: Sue Chinn, 49 West End Lane, London NW6 4NY (020 7328 6724)
Membership Secretary: Susan Gunning, 54A Fulham Road, London SW3 6HH
(020 7589 6600)
