Question 1

How much does it cost to join the Festival of Walking?

Accepted Answer

Not even one penny! YHA’s Festival of Walking is absolutely free to take part in so grab your boots and head over to a participating hostel to meet like minded people looking to explore the best of England and Wales.

Question 2

How fit do I need to be to take part in the YHA’s Festival of Walking?

Accepted Answer

A celebration of walking from hostels, the Festival of Walking is designed for everyone. So it makes no difference whether you really don’t consider yourself a walker or you run Striding Edge each morning before breakfast: everyone is welcome.

Question 3

Are the social walks led by experts?

Accepted Answer

Our social walks are led by a variety of knowledgeable experts, including volunteers with the British Mountaineering Council. As the representative body for hill walkers and climbers, they have some handy tips on how to stay safe when you’re out on the trail or in the hills.

Question 4

What kind of equipment do I need bring with me?

Accepted Answer

Choose comfy trainers or supportive boots depending on the walk's grade. Pack a small rucksack with water, a sun hat, and a raincoat for the unpredictable British weather! Bring walking poles for extra stability if you have them.

Question 5

How long are the walks?

Accepted Answer

YHA’s Festival of Walking offers walks for everyone. So there are short walks for beginners as well as longer walks of 10 miles and above which should provide a decent challenge for the most experienced hiker.

Question 6

What’s the terrain like on the YHA’s social walks?

Accepted Answer

You can choose the terrain according to your ability. We firmly believe that everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy walking, which is why we offer accessible walks for people with limited mobility and those taking the first step to better health and wellbeing.

Question 7

Are any of the walks accessible for wheelchairs and mobility scooters?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! YHA’s Festival of Walking is open to all, so you will find walks which are suitable for anyone using a wheelchair or a mobility scooter.

Question 8

Which hostels are taking part in the Festival of Walking?

Accepted Answer

Join scheduled walks across England and Wales during the Festival of Walking! Check participating hostels to see their event offerings. Plus, sign up for our mailing list for the latest walking news, special offers, and mapped routes.

Question 9

Where is my nearest social walk?

Accepted Answer

We have social walks taking place across England and Wales. Find a social walk in your region on our social walks page. You can also sign up to our mailing list to get notified of the latest social walk news. New social walks will be added right up to the start of the festival!

Question 10

Can I bring my dog on the walk?

Accepted Answer

Well behaved dogs are absolutely welcome as long as they are kept on a short lead. Please remember to pick up after them and dispose of all waste. Unfortunately, a few walks are not suitable for our four-legged friends, so please check the walk information before you book.

Question 11

Who will I meet on the walk?

Accepted Answer

Joining one of our social walks gives you the opportunity to meet like-minded people and explore the outdoors together. You’ll chat with people from all walks of life and for many of our ramblers, they’ve reported that the highlight of the day is meeting people they wouldn’t otherwise come across.

Question 12

Are there any walks just for women?

Accepted Answer

We're running a selection of walks for women. Hosted by fantastic groups such as Outdoor Adventure Girls, these walks are aimed at creating a supportive community whilst exploring beautiful landscapes.

Question 13

Can I do these walks on my own?

Accepted Answer

Prefer walking independently or outside festival dates? Try YHA’s self-guided walks! Download free maps for routes starting right from your hostel door. Set your own pace and choose from Easy, Moderate, or Challenging grades. Enjoy anything from a gentle ramble to a tough hike!

Question 14

Are any of the walks in urban areas?

Accepted Answer

Our Festival of Walking social walks aren't just countryside and coastal based - we have several walks organised in city locations too!

Question 15

Will we stop for coffee and cake?

Accepted Answer

What’s a walk without a refreshment break, complete with cuppa and a tasty piece of cake? And how much nicer would it be if it was completely free? Join one of YHA’s social walks as part of the Festival of Walking and that cuppa and cake is on us.

Question 16

Can I stay at a YHA hostel and be part of the Festival of Walking?

Accepted Answer

Yes! In fact we’d love it if you would like to combine joining one of our social walks with a stay at a YHA hostel. With over 100 hostels to chose from, there’s something for everyone.

Guided social walk - YHA Boggle Hole

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Location

YHA Boggle Hole

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