If you are reasonably fit, and would like to join us, all you need is a pair of walking boots, some good waterproofs and a packed lunch! Walks are generally between 7 and 10 miles, and either longer walks in the countryside/along the coast, or hill walks, generally in The Cheviot Hills or Lammermuir Hills. The social side is also an important part of the Group, and we generally stop for coffee/tea and cake after a walk.

The next U3A hill walk will be on Wednesday 19 August. It will be around 8 miles and 750 feet of climbing from Warenford. I suggest that you park on the main street just in front of the cottages on the left before crossing the bridge over the Waren Burn.   

Meet at 09.30 am at the Castlegate car park for car share, or 10.00 am at the walk start point. 

Grazing animals: on a recent recce, cattle with calves were encountered in a number of places, together with some sheep. Cattle encountered on the day will be avoided. 

Stiles, gates & cattle grids: there will be several stiles  including two ladder stiles, to negotiate.

Dogs: Due to the presence of cattle, with calves, and ladder stiles, it is suggested that members do not bring dogs on this occasion.   

Walk leader: Martin Laidler

Further details: A very varied undulating rather than hilly walk, with extensive views. We will start by going through the wooded grounds of Twizell House, and passing Twizell Farm, before entering more open countryside on the walk up to the ruined Brownridge. We then cross heather-clad moorland, the heather is in flower at the moment and is lovely, to reach Chatton Sandyfords, where we turn east to return to Warenford via Rayheugh, and Birchwood Hall. 

Although there are some on-road sections, the majority of the walk is off-road on a mix of  paths and tracks, arable fields and undefined grassy areas. Some stretches could be muddy and slippy underfoot if it has been wet.

Clothing and vegetation: walkers are advised to bring suitable clothing, footwear and items for the conditions anticipated in August. Most of the areas we walk through are clear, however there are areas of bracken, nettles and thistles nearby and so shorts are not recommended on this occasion. At the time of the recce the edge of a field of wheat had to be followed, although adjoining fields were being or had been harvested and so the position may change by Wednesday.

Please bring a packed lunch, and something to drink.

For those who wish to get together for coffee/tea afterwards there are several options available in the area. 

If you are coming on the walk:

- can you let me know if you will be meeting at the Castlegate car park, and if you can provide or require a lift, or if you are meeting at the walk start point, and

- for any new members, can you let me have your emergency contact information if I don't have it already.

Thank you.

For further information please contact the Group Leader.