Q: I'm not a member, can I still come on one of your walks?
A: Yes, feel free to come on 3 walks with us first before deciding whether you want to join or not. You just need to pay your share of petrol money or pay for the bus ticket, when using public transport. Please also bring a change of shoes or big plastic bags so you don't get mud in the cars when sharing lifts.
Q: Do I need my own car?
A: No, we normally meet in Sheffield so we can car-share to the start of the walk. When signing on for the walk, it's useful to tell the walk leader if you are coming in a car with space to give lifts, or if you need a lift yourself.
Q: Do I just turn up for a walk?
A: Yes, provided you have sent a text to the walk leader by 6pm the day before to book on. The walk leader's job is easier when they know how many people to expect.
Q: Do I need to book on a walk beforehand?
A: Yes. Ideally text, or call, the walk leader to tell them you're going and where you're going to meet them and if you are taking a car. Leaders are not expected to reply to confirm or to answer any questions so please don't ask any questions by text. Not everyone has free text messages, and it can get expensive confirming everyone on a popular walk. If you have any questions, call and speak to the leader. Please avoid calling walk leaders during weekday working hours or late at night.
Q: Do I need to come to a new members evening before coming on a walk?
A: The New Members Evening is a good way to meet the group and other new members, but it's not compulsory! You are equally welcome to just book on and come along on a walk first of all if you prefer, where you will also meet lots of people. You can try up to 3 walks / socials before you decide if you want to formally join the group.
A: So we know how many people to expect. If there are too many, we need time to arrange to split the walk into two groups. So we know who to expect - so we don't leave anyone behind.
Q: Can I bring my children along on a walk?
A: Yes, in principle, but you'll need to ask the walk leader first because the route might not be suitable for children. See our Children & young people on walks page for more information.
Q: Can I bring my dog on a walk?
A: Only if a walk is 'dog friendly' - look for the dog symbol in the walks programme, but do please still ask the walk leader if it's OK to bring your dog when booking on. For details see our policy on dogs on walks.
Q: I'm in my 40s/50s/above, can I still join?
A: Yes. Although Sheffield Walking Group is aimed primarily at people in their 20s and 30s, we welcome everyone and a number of our members have been 39 for quite some time! However, in 2007, one of our members successfully set up a group for those in their 40s: Sheffield 40s Walking Group. We have strong links with that group and even some shared members. Why not give both a try and see which you prefer?
