Try Rambling: Free Introductory Walk on 23rd October

Ever wondered what Ramblers walks are really like? Here's your chance to find out – no booking required, no charge, just turn up and walk

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Alton Ramblers are hosting a special introductory walk on Thursday 23rd October designed specifically to welcome newcomers and give people a genuine taste of what group walking is all about.

The walk starts at 10:30am from Alton Rugby Club in Anstey Park, where there's free 4-hour parking. It's easily accessible from the station or on buses 64 and 65, making it convenient for everyone.

What to expect

This circular walk is approximately 5 miles, taking in Neatham Mill, Manor Farm and Neatham Down, returning via Wilson Road. You'll experience a lovely mix of woodland and farm paths with nice views and open countryside, plus some road walking at the beginning and end. The whole walk should take around 2 hours and 45 minutes, finishing around 1:15pm.

The pace will be leisurely and adjusted to suit the whole group, so everyone feels included and comfortable. Walk leader Arthur Barlow has been trained and leading walks for over 10 years, so you'll be in experienced hands. The emphasis is on friendly atmosphere, complete safety, and simply enjoying a great morning's walk together.

Why try Ramblers?

"We know it can be hard to overcome preconceptions about what Ramblers is like," say the organisers. "This walk is a chance to experience it first-hand – the routes, the people, the whole feeling of it."

Alton Ramblers offer regular walks all over the area with trained leaders, and most walks require no booking – you just turn up. It's a brilliant way to discover new routes, meet other walkers, and explore East Hampshire's stunning countryside with people who know it well.

This introductory walk is perfectly timed for anyone who's enjoyed the Walking Festival the week before and wants to continue with regular group walks.

The details

• Route: Neatham Down circular via Neatham Mill, Manor Farm and Neatham Down, returning via Wilson Road

• Distance: Approximately 5 miles

• When: Thursday 23rd October, 10:30am start

• Finish time: Approximately 1:15pm

• Where: Alton Rugby Club, Anstey Park

• Terrain: Mix of woodland and farm paths with open countryside and nice views; some road walking at beginning and end

• Cost: Free

• Booking: Not required – just turn up

• What to bring: Walking boots, weather-appropriate clothing, water

• Dogs: Well-behaved dogs on leads welcome

For full walk details and to find out more about Alton Ramblers' regular programme, visit altonramblers.org.uk or contact walk leader Arthur Barlow through the website.