My first walking event

See our guide to the different types of walking events for gay, bi and trans guys in the UK >

General Information

The event page tells you where and when the walk starts. Walks are usually chosen to be accessible via public transport.

Most walks are circular, finishing where they started, but if the walk is linear and ends somewhere else, the leader will have planned a way for the group to get back to the start, prossibly using public transport (in which case bring enough cash for the fare).

The walk leader may send a message in the days prior to the walk with final information about the walk and asking people to remove themselves from the event if they are no longer able to take part. Please do this if you can no longer attend. This then frees up a place for someone else who would like to attend to join the walk, and it means that the leader is not waiting for you to arrive at the start of the walk.

If you have any questions in advance of the event, you can send the event leader a message via the link on the event page.

Clothing

You can rarely predict the weather, and it's usually a good idea to be prepared for worse weather during the walk than you have at the beginning, at least then you are ready.

Jeans are a bad choice except in guaranteed sunny weather, as when wet they are cold, heavy and take ages to dry. Walking trousers are a much better option as they are very quick to dry and don’t get heavy when wet.

In the depths of winter it may be worth wearing warmer walking trousers or adding a pair of thermals.

Walking tops or "base layers" are good as they wick moisture away from the skin and so help keep you warm. You will probably also need a fleece. It is amazing how quickly the cold can seep in when you stop exercising, such as when you break for lunch. Try and get a fleece that is compact enough to be easily stored in your rucksack when you don’t need it.

Your outer layer will be a coat of some kind. Ideally it should be waterproof and include a hood. There are lots of modern fabrics that are breathable but still waterproof, and they are better at keeping you dry.

Some people also like to have waterproof over trousers. These are used if it pours down, and are designed to be quick to put on over other trousers. On longer hikes and at altitude they are invaluable, but on a low level walk are useful but not necessary.

Footwear

Walking boots are definitely the best option. On Leisure walks, trainers with a good tread will probably be OK in dry, summer conditions, or wellingtons if you are expecting wetter and muddier conditions. You can always ask the leader's advice before the event if you are not sure.

Other Equipment

For a day walk, a day sack (that's one with a capacity of around 20 to 25 litres) is perfect. Some have a hydration bag system capability, others have mesh backs that try and stop lots of sweat forming where the sack presses against your back. Any rucksack that is comfortable though with will do for a day walk.

Consider putting things in your rucksack into waterproof bags, Ziploc type ones will do, so that they stay dry if it does rain.

Walking poles can be useful for a walk with lots of climbing, especially if you have any issues with your knees, but they are purely optional.

Other Items to Bring

The event page will tell you if there's anything else you need to bring.

When it comes to refreshments, it will tell you whether to bring a packed lunch or money to buy food if there's pub stop planned on the walk.

It's a good idea to bring some cash anyway, as sometimes people decide to head off to a pub or cafe together after the walk. If the walks include a paid-for activity (for example a steam train journey or museum visit) the amount you'll need to bring enough to pay for that, and the amount needed will be shown on the event page.

Bring sufficient water to keep yourself hydrated.

You'll be glad you took sun cream, a cap and sunglasses if the weather is good. We can be out for several hours so watch out! But if the weather is bad, a hat will be worthwhile.

At The Start of the Walk

Plan to get to the start point of the walk 15-20 minutes early. You never know if there will be a delay on your route won't want to be left behind. If you have put a contact mobile into your OutdoorLads profile, the walk leader will have it and be able to contact you to make a fallback plan if you are running late.

When you get to the start point you will probably recognise us, as a group of men all wearing boots, outdoor gear and rucksacks usually can’t be missed! The event leader will sometimes have an OutdoorLads flag, or t-shirt, to help you identify the group, but will anyway make sure that they are obvious.

The event leader will be at the start point well before the walk starts ready to welcome participants as they arrive and check them off against the expected attendance list. If you are going to be late, or find out at the last minute that you cannot attend, it’s extremely helpful if you message the event leader so that the group won’t be waiting for you. Or you can call them if the event leader put their contact number on the event listing.

The leader will give an introduction and welcome everyone, which includes a reminder about lunch arrangements and what sort of route you’ll be taking. He will also check which participants are on their first event. This isn’t to embarrass you but to make sure that the other members can also help to make you feel welcome.

During the Walk

Once the walk starts people naturally break up into smaller groups, often depending on how fast everyone naturally walks. During the walk, these groups continually change and so you will be able to chat with different people during the day. If it’s your first walk you will find that you meet a bunch of people happy to say hello, OutdoorLads events are friendly and welcoming.

At lunchtime, if it is a picnic, the leader finds a good spot to stop for around half an hour. If the ground is wet then waterproof clothing, a seating mat or even a plastic bag or bin liner will be more comfortable to sit on.

If at any time during the walk you need a comfort break and the bushes will do, be sure to let someone know that you’ll be hanging back for a couple of minutes so that you don't get accidentally left behind.If you feel unwell, or need assistance, please let the walk leader know immediately so that they can help you in whatever was is appropriate. Don't be too embarrassed to ask.

At The End of the Walk

The event leader will confirm the end point of the walk, and check that everyone is there and happy. They will help with advice on public transport for those that want it. If there is a pub or cafe nearby, the group may decide to head there before leaving to go home. It’s all part of the social nature of the group.

Leader Qualifications

The walk leader will have gone through an OutdoorLads evaluation and assessment process and have proved that they are capable of leading the event. This includes following the route on a map or in a guide. This doesn’t mean that the group won’t ever get lost, but if that happens, the leader will be able to retrieve the situation and get everyone back on track. For walks in mountainous areas, the leader will also have a first aid qualification and be knowledgable on what to do should assistance from the emergency services be required.

What are other types of OutdoorLads events like?

Find out about other types of events and what to expect if you are going on them for the first time.