Western Midlands

Gay Outdoor Club (GOC) Western Midlands is a branch of the nationwide GOC. The club organises a regular programme of walks in the West Midlands, Worcestershire, Shropshire, Herefordshire, Staffordshire, the Cotswolds, and occasionally further afield. There is also a swimming group, badminton and social activities, as well as the opportunity to participate in events organised by the national GOC and by other local GOC groups.

To contact this group by e-mail, phone or letter please use our contact page.

- Enjoyment of the wildflowers, wildlife, sounds and scents of the countryside.

What kinds of walks do GOC West Midlands do?

A very wide variety, from 'discovery' walks in which we learn something about Birmingham's canals, for example, or its Jewellery Quarter, to scenic walks in the Malvern Hills, the Cotswolds, the Wyre Forest and many other places. Distances covered range from 5 or 6 miles - well within the capability of any reasonably active person - up to 12, and occasionally 15, miles. You can always check out the distance in advance by consulting our programme, so you shouldn't get caught out with an unexpectedly long walk. What's more, being in the Midlands there are no very high hills and few really steep hills to climb, and as we always walk on public footpaths the worst you'll have to contend with underfoot is mud. So whilst the longer walks do call for a degree of stamina, they don't normally present any other difficulties.

Who comes along to the walks?

All gay, lesbian and bisexual people of any age, and their friends, are welcome. The number of people taking part in our walks varies, but 30 to 50 is typical.