Preparation

For all but the shortest and easiest walks some preparation is necessary to turn a walk into an enjoyable day out. Why not plan to combine a walk with a pub lunch or picnic?

Map and Directions

Ensure you have the walk directions and maps (including the printout of the multiMap link or Ordnance Survey map). To get the map for a walk follow the 'Map reference:' link on the area page(example). If you do happen to get lost a compass may be usefull.

The printing hints describe options for printing walk directions. Experiment with the options to find which you like best.

Walking Time

The time it takes to complete a walk is dependent on the distance, elevation, difficulty and weather conditions before and during the walk. It is even more dependent on the fitness of the people walking and how much they get distracted by looking at the landscape and nature. Start by allowing at least half an hour per mile.

Weather Forcasts

Before setting out on a walk check out the weather forcast, try the weather at the BBC. Beware a strong wind can make a walk on a sunny day very unplessant due to windchill.

Food and Drink

On a long walk take some sustenance unless you can guarentee a 'watering hole' such as a pub or cafe on route. The minimum you should take is some fresh fruit, dried fruit, chocolate or cereal bar and a bottle of water. On a cold day a flask of hot drink can help remove the chill from the bones.

Walking Kit

For all but the easiest walks, walkers should wear the right kit.

The first essential is suitable footware, walking boots are recommended for all but the easiest of walks, checkout 'OutdoorGear UK' for walking boots for Ladies, Men and Children. Buy them a little larger to allow room for two pairs of thick woollen socks. Before using a pair of new boots for a long walk break them in on a number of shorter walks.

Walking clothing should include a waterproof coat, comfortable trousers (denim jeans are not recommended) and a woollen sweater.

A waterproof/windproof coat is recommended for most of the year in the UK. It may also be worth considering waterproof overtrousers. Try 'OutdoorGear UK' for waterproofs for Ladies, Men and Children.

Trousers are prefered to shorts even in summer as they help to protect your legs from nettles and brambles. Suitable trousers for Ladies, Men and Children can be found at 'OutdoorGear UK'.

Even in summer it can suddenly turn cold. A woollen sweater is an ideal extra layer to keep you warm. For a range of woollen sweaters see 'Woolovers'.

Use a rucksack to carry food and drink and any extra clothing. A rucksack on your back keeps your hands free when climbing over stiles. For a range of rucksacks visit 'OutdoorGear UK'.

Dont forget to protect yourself from the sun on summer walks, visit 'Pharmacy2U' for sun protection products.

Walking is an excellent way of reaching countryside and coastline inaccessible by most forms of transport. Take a camera to capture what you see on the walk and help you remember the day. All pictures an walks4softies have been taken with a digital camera. Why not try a digital camera from The Digital Camera Company.