What activities do YOG members do? YOG is a very active social group with approximately 180 (as of February 2026) members. There are walks most Sundays throughout the year. We try to arrange a number of weekends away and throughout the summer (May – August inc) there are evening walks and cycle rides too. Social events include trips to the cinema/theatre/music events and meals out. YOG members also go on walking/cycling/skiing/social holidays too.
How would you describe the members of the group? YOG is a very friendly group and prides itself in being a laid-back and inclusive group for people typically aged 40+. It was founded in December 1989.
Do I need to be fit? A reasonable level of fitness is required as Sunday walks are usually between 8-12 miles, although sometimes shorter, and longer ones may also be offered. In summer, evenings walks are usually between 4-6 miles in length. If unsure of your walking capability it may be a good idea to start with an evening walk. The group leader will always try to ensure the group walks together. If in doubt contact the walk leader.
Will I need to wear anything particular on a walk? For comfort it is recommended that walking clothes be worn including walking boots. Especially during winter-time, there will be mud! Walkers are recommended to use a rucksack to carry a waterproof jacket and trousers., as well as a packed lunch and either a hot or cold drink. Be aware of the weather forecast before the days’ walk and ensure that all preparations are made for the weather. This may include sun cream, extra water, warmer clothes, extra socks, spare clothes.
I am a slow walker – is that ok? Walk leaders aim to prevent the group from becoming too strung out and will stop to allow slower members to catch up. However, you should try to only join walks which suit your abilities. If in any doubt, please contact the walk leader.
Do I need a car? No – walkers usually meet at Nunnery Lane car park (near the vehicle entrance) and we car share to the start of the walk in order to reduce the number of cars travelling. (If more cars arrive at the car park than are needed, we move any surplus to nearby free on-street parking.) There is a fixed mileage rate which is divided between all occupants of a car to cover costs.
Do I have to come to Nunnery Lane car park? No, you can join the group at the starting point of the walk. However, sometimes there is limited parking and/or parking charges so we encourage car sharing. Contact the walk leader for more details. Please note: For privacy reasons, we do not advertise walk leaders’ contact details on this website. Please contact us if you would like to be put in touch with a particular walk’s leader.
Can I bring a dog? Dogs are usually welcome if their owner is well behaved 😉 Dogs must be kept on a lead where livestock is around. Owners should be considerate of other members wishes. If in doubt, please contact the walk leader. Unfortunately, it is not usually possible for dogs to be brought on weekends away.
I have a medical condition – do I need to tell anyone? Depending on the nature of your medical condition it would be up to the individual to let the walk leader know. For specific conditions like Epilepsy, Type 1 Diabetes for example it may be prudent to let the walk leader know.
I have a special diet, is that a problem for weekend away ? No, the person organising the weekend away will ask if anyone has any special dietary requirements. If you just prefer particular foods, you may choose to bring your own.
Do I have to lead a walk or a social activity? Activities can only be offered if members come forward to organise them. We therefore encourage (but don’t require) every member to help out be that, arrange a walk, a bike ride, a weekend away or social event, if they can. There’s always someone willing to help and support you. There are opportunities to learn or develop map reading skills and first time walk leaders can request a mentor. Weekends away can be organised by more than one person, and this is often a good way to share and divide the tasks needed to ensure a successful and enjoyable weekend.
How do I find out what is happening? Check our What’s on? page. Non-members will need to contact us to request full walk details. Members who have paid their annual subscription fee will automatically receive a weekly programme update email containing our full programme with all the details.
Do I need to be a member to join a walk? No, please come along and join a couple of walks and if you enjoy yourself and would like to attend more regularly, please join us.
What is the membership fee? The current annual membership fee is £5.
How do I join? See our Membership page.