From November 2024, we follow the standard Ramblers approach to grading the difficulty of walks. Most of our walks fall into the “leisurely” or “moderate” category, although some of those on our trips away to the mountains may be graded “strenuous”, and a few on well-surfaced paths may be classified “easy”.
New members are welcome to attend any walk, but the grade along with the description may help you to know which are likely to be most suitable for you.
The full range of grades is explained on the Ramblers website, and also includes “easy access” and “technical” grades which aren’t generally relevant to our group.
Easy: These walks are suitable for anyone who has some level of fitness and who doesn’t have a mobility difficulty or health concerns. The walks are generally suitable for pushchairs but they may need to be lifted over occasional obstructions. You don’t need walking boots, comfortable shoes or trainers will be suitable.
Leisurely: If you have at least a little bit of experience of walking in the countryside and you have a reasonable level of fitness, these walks will be suitable for you. The walks may include unsurfaced rural paths and we recommend you wear walking boots and bring warm, waterproof clothing as appropriate for the season.
Moderate: These walks may include some steep paths and open country walking. They will be at a brisk pace so you will need a good level of fitness and experience of walking in the countryside. Walking boots and warm, waterproof clothing are essential.
Strenuous: These walks will be at a brisk pace and may include hills and rough terrain. They are recommended only for experienced country walkers with an above average level of fitness. Walking boots and warm, waterproof clothing are essential. If you are new to walking with the group, please contact the walk leader in advance to check the walk is suitable for you.
For those used to our old group-specific grades prior to November 2024: the Ramblers “leisurely” grade covers most of what we used to call “easy” or “easy/moderate“, while the Ramblers “moderate” grade covers most of what we used to grade moderate” to “challenging“.
Pace guide
Gentle: led at a gentle pace with regular short breaks for water or rest. Should be suitable for anyone capable of the distance. (Expect 2–2.5 mph.)
Medium: led at an intermediate pace with fewer breaks but still suitable for most walkers. (Expect 2.5–3 mph.)
Fast: led at a quick pace with minimal breaks. May be a challenge for those with less fitness. (Expect 3 mph+.)
Speeds quoted are only a rough guide, including time spent on short water/rest stops and negotiating stiles/gates/roads etc. but not that spent on longer lunch or pub stops.