How do I join the DYW or come on a walk?
Anyone can come on a walk, just turn up! However if you become regular and do 2 or 3 walks we do expect you join the Rambler’s Association. As member of the RA you can lead group walks, go on group holidays and events, and you will also receive a discount on hiking equipment at some major outdoor stores.

What should I bring?
For most walks you should bring a packed lunch and a drink. Clothing and footwear should be appropriate for the conditions, and good quality walking socks to go with your boots will help prevent blisters. Be prepared in winter and harsh weather, and most people bring a small backpack (daypack). A mat or plastic bag to sit on at lunch is also a good idea. You'll find plenty of people willing to offer advice on equipment and if you become a member you can get discounts at several shops selling boots etc. We often stop at a pub or tea room at the end of a walk so money for this (or occansionally for parking) is a good idea.

Can I bring a dog or children on a DYW walk?

There are not normally any dogs or children on DYW walks, but in most cases there will be no objection if the dogs/children are well behaved. You should check with the person leading the walk first though. The Wessex group have organised some "Families With Young Children" walks.

How can I find the meeting point?

The grid references (e.g. "SY123456") given in the programme can be used to identify the meeting point on an Ordnance Survey map or using an online system such as www.multimap.co.uk (enter the grid reference where it asks for a postcode). There is also a Multimap hyperlink on the walk description, a small Google Map for each walk and a larger map with all walk locations highlighted by marker pins, which will also give you driving directions to the start point of the walk. There are usually at least 10 people on walks so we're normally easy to spot when you get to the car park. We generally wait about 10-15 minutes after the start time to allow everyone to put on their boots and wait for anyone who might be delayed. The walk leader usually carries the group mobile phone or private mobile if you wish to call ahead, the number can be found on the walk description.

Can I get a lift to the start of the walk?

Many of the walks are not easily accessible by public transport, although we do try and make some walks that start from a train station. If possible you should make your own way when you first meet the group and then arrange lift-sharing for future events. Please use the online message board if you wish to arrange car-sharing (you need to register or already have joined the website to do this). You might also like to plan a walk in your local area and let one of our walk leaders put it on the programme.

What if I'm not available on Sundays?

The majority of our members find that Sunday is the most convenient day for our walks, but we also do some Saturday and evening (in summer) walks as well.

I feel a little shy or self conscious just turning up on my own?

Everyone in the group was a newbie once! Come along to a walk and you will find us welcoming and friendly. We are always interested in welcoming new members to our group!

Do I have to become a member of the Ramblers to come on DYW walks?

Non RA members are welcome to come on a few of our walks, but you will be expected to join if you attend regularly or wish to become more actively involved in the group. Find the RA website here.

How do the different groups fit together?

There are currently 5 RA groups in Dorset - North, East, South, West and the younger persons group - Dorset Young Walkers. There is also a younger persons group centred on the New Forest area called the Wessex Weekend Walkers (see links page). When you join the RA you will be allocated to one of the 'geographic' groups unless you specifically ask to join our group (group DT5). Younger people are welcome to come walking with us whichever group they have been allocated to, but might only get sent newsletters from one of the groups. Some walks are 'joint' - they include people from more than one group.

Why have 'younger persons' groups?

The Ramblers Association recognised some years ago that the existing groups had a very high average age. Younger persons groups (YPGs) have been set up to attract new people to the organisation. We have members aged from early 20s to late 40s.

How fast does the group walk?

Our normal walks are usually fewer than 8 miles so are suitable for anyone of average fitness. We keep an eye on any newcomers and will not leave anyone behind! The pace can be brisk on longer walks but there are plenty of breaks for water and a usually a lunch stop. Longer distances (9miles+) and walks over very hilly terrain will require appropriate fitness and suitable footwear.

Do you do longer walks?

If you are interested in longer or faster walks then you will find similar people in our group - for example 8 Dorset young Walkers completed a 25 mile walk organised by the Long Distance Walkers Association.

When do walks finish?

Walks that start mid-morning normally finish between 3 and 4 pm, although long summer walks may finish later. After changing boots many walkers head for the nearest pub or tea-shop.