Joining us for your first group walk is a relaxed, fun, and completely stress-free experience. You do not need any special skills or expensive gear to get started—just a desire to get outside and explore. It is completely normal to feel a bit nervous if you are new to group walking, but our volunteers and members are incredibly welcoming and will make you feel right at home from the moment you arrive.
To help you prepare, here is exactly what to expect on your first day with the Inner London Ramblers:
- Finding a walk: Browse our walks finder and pick a route that matches your fitness level. For most walks, you can simply turn up at the meeting point without booking ahead.
- What to wear and pack: Dress in comfortable layers, wear sturdy trainers or walking shoes, and pack a waterproof jacket. Don't forget to bring a bottle of water, some snacks, and a packed lunch if the walk description recommends it.
- On the trail: Arrive about 10–15 minutes early to meet your volunteer walk leader. You can walk entirely at your own pace; we always have a "back marker" volunteer at the rear of the group to ensure no one ever gets left behind.
- After the walk: Many of our routes finish near a cafe or pub, and you are always welcome to join the group for a social drink and a chat before heading home.
You are welcome to try out up to three of our group walks for free to see if you enjoy the experience. If you love it and want to keep exploring the city and countryside with us, we will invite you to officially become a member of the Ramblers.