Welcome to the Western Midlands Page
The Western Midlands Group is a branch of GOC and organises a regular programme of walks in the West Midlands, Worcestershire, Shropshire, Herefordshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire and occasionally further afield. There are also social activities, as well as the opportunity to participate in events organised by the national GOC and by other GOC groups in England, Scotland and Wales.
We usually walk on the 1st and 3rd Sundays each month though this usually drops to just one per month in the winter period. During the Spring, Summer and Autumn we also hope to walk at least once a month on a mid-week basis. The mid-week walks will usually be shorter than the Sunday walks and possibly easier too.
With the wonderful countryside available to us in the midlands our walks often provide wonderful views and access to areas that are only available to those on foot. Distances covered range from 6 miles up to 12 for a Sunday walk depending on the terrain. You can always check out the distance and any degree of difficulty in advance, by consulting our programme on the GOC events pages, so you shouldn't get caught out with an unexpectedly long or difficult walk.
We always walk on public footpaths where possible so, depending on the weather there may be mud / water underfoot. So whilst the longer walks do call for a degree of stamina, they don't normally present any other difficulties. Our walks are also always leader led.
The number of people attending a walk varies depending on the distance, terrain and weather so it may be around 6 through to 20. Our walks are very relaxed and friendly and are a good opportunity to meet up with old friends and make new ones.
Our walks cover a range of areas for example we've walked some of Birmingham's canal system, exploring the dereliction and industrial archaeology and climbed Caer Caradoc and Ragleth Hill in Shropshire.
Depending on the season and weather you may need to bring waterproof clothing, head covering, gloves and walking boots or a pair of strong shoes you don't mind getting muddy and something to eat / drink during the walk as most walks do not pass food shops.
Everyone is welcome to join us, so please don't be nervous we'll do our best to make you welcome.
If you would like to ask a question or would like more information etc. you can reach me via the contact form at the foot of the page.
Chris T
Group Coordinator Western Midlands Group
