The Flitch Way disused Railway Line
6 people attending
20 places left
This is a walk I've had on my to do list for quite some time and it has taken a little planning as it starts in one location and ends in another, on a different train line. However at just under 15 miles it promises to be a great OutdoorLads day walk along the old disused Bishop Stortford to Braintree branch line that once cut its way through the Essex Countryside.
The name “Flitch Way” originated from the Flitch ceremony in Little Dunmow whereby couples who could prove that they had not argued in marriage after a year and a day would be awarded a flitch (side) of bacon.
A day out for historical railway lovers, nature lovers or those who just can't help but enjoy a good jolly with their fellow OutdoorLads.
Please pay attention to the quite specific travel requirements below as it's a little more complicated that the usual circular routes.
Don't waste that space! We're coming out of a pandemic with lots of members excited to be getting back out on ODL events again. Please only book if you know you can make it.
Is it dog friendly? Yes!! Four-legged friends are welcome but please abide by the Countryside Code (https://tinyurl.com/rlqvp3h) and please remember, not everyone loves dogs as much as you do so please be mindful of other members. Just remember it's 15 miles which is at least 6 hours walking, so you'll need to ensure you bring hydration for both of you.
New to OutdoorLads (ODL)?
Welcome and I'm pleased you've decided to join and I hope to make this day as fun as I can for you. The details are hopefully all captured in this event page but please drop me a message if there is anything I can do to help make this a great first day walk with ODL.
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete the Participation Statement, here, in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this participation once, not for each event.
Image credits and thank you's:
Credit and thanks to Sandra and the Friends of the Flitch Way for permission to use the the location and route images taken from their website www.friends-of-the-flitch-way.org.uk
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
COVID-19 – IMPORTANT, Please read the following before you sign up to this event:
- Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, even if they are extremely mild, or who lives or is in a support bubble with someone showing symptoms, is asked not to attend. This is in line with the government’s coronavirus advice.
- You must also immediately self-isolate and not attend the event if you or someone in your household or support bubble shows coronavirus symptoms or tests positive. Read the NHS self-isolation guidance.
- OutdoorLads strongly encourages all attendees to take a rapid lateral flow test immediately prior to attending an event. This will help to keep everyone safe. Order free Rapid Lateral Flow Tests.
What to bring
Water: bring at least two litres - more if you have a dog with you
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Boots: waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking, trainers are OK if the ground is dry and there’s little chance of rain
Gaiters: recommended for wet weather or boggy conditions
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Food & drink
Bring a snacks, a packed lunch and plenty of hydration.
Time permitting at the end we can grab a farewell pint before we all head off - train times depending as they're only hourly.