January	February	March	April	May	June
July	August	September	October	November	December

Local Walk

National Walk

Evening Walk

Weekend Away

Pub Meeting

Other Event

January	Wednesday 6th Pub Meet (No Walk) Trading Post, Kettering	Sunday 10th Area AGM Rushden	Sunday 17th Local Walk New Members Walk Turvey John H & Erica	Sunday 24th Local Walk Arthingworth John A and Paul	Sunday 31st Local Walk Farthingstone Andy
February	Wednesday 3rd Pub Meet (No Walk) The Priory, Wellingborough	Sunday 7th National Walk Hallaton Lee & Kath	Sunday 21st Local Walk Southwick Emma	Friday 26th to Monday 1st March Weekend Away Peak District John & Mel
March	Wednesday 3rd Pub Meet (No Walk) The Turnpike, Harpole	Sunday 7th Local Walk Stowe Park Tim	Sunday 21st Local Walk Wootton to Salcey Forest Mark	Sunday 28th National Walk Tilton on the Hill John
April	Monday 5th Easter Monday Local Walk Fermyn Woods Gayle & Steve	Wednesday 7th Pub Meet (No Walk) The Windhover, Chapel Brampton	Sunday 18th Local Walk Grendon Vicki B	Sunday 25th Local Walk Cotterstock Mel
May	Friday 30th April to Monday May 3rd Bank Holiday Weekend Northumberland John	Wednesday 5th Pub Meet & Evening Walk Stoke Bruerne Mark	Friday 7th to Sunday 9th Waendel Walk	Sunday 16th Bluebell / Pub Lunch Walk Warwickshire Andy	Wednesday 19th Pub Meet & Evening Walk Fotheringhay Ian
May (cont)	Sunday 23rd Local Walk Laxton Claire & Andrew
June	Wednesday 2nd Pub Meet & Evening Walk Brixworth Sarah	Saturday 5th to Saturday 12th Cuillin Hills Vicki B	Sunday 6th National Walk Cotswolds Andy	Wednesday 16th Pub Meet & Evening Walk Wellingborough Claire & Andrew	Sunday 20th Father's Day Local Walk Weedon Bec Chris G
June (cont)	Saturday 26th Annual BBQ	Sunday 27th Local Walk (from BBQ location)
July	Sunday 4th National Walk Stonehenge John A	Wednesday 7th Pub Meet & Evening Walk Little Brington Andy	Sunday 18th National Walk Peak District Elaine / Paul	Wednesday 21st Pub Meet & Evening Walk Castle Ashby Sarah	Sunday 25th Local Walk Badby Clive
August	Wednesday 4th Pub Meet and Evening Walk Stanwick Lakes Vicki B	Sunday 8th Local Walk Bozeat John A and Paul	Sunday 15th National Walk London Vicki B	Wednesday 18th Pub Meet and Evening Walk Rothersthorpe Mel	Friday 20th to Sunday 22nd Weekend Away Dover Vicki B
September	Wednesday 1st Pub Meet	Sunday 5th National Walk Charlbury, Oxon Chris B	Sunday 12th Local Walk Biggleswade Debs	Sunday 26th Baton Walk Bulwick John
October	Sunday 3rd National Walk Tim	Wednesday 6th Pub Meet	Sunday 10th Local Walk Mark	Sunday 24th National Walk Lee and Kath	Sunday 31st Local Walk Elaine / Paul
November	Wednesday 3rd Pub Meet	Sunday 7th National Walk John	Sunday 14th Local Walk Francisco	Friday 19th to Monday 22nd Weekend Away Forest of Dean Claire and Mel	Sunday 28th Local Walk Steve and Gayle
December	Wednesday 1st Pub Meet	Sunday 12th National Walk John	Sunday 19th Local Walk (Santa Hat Walk) Andy	Sunday 26th Local Boxing Day walk John

2010

January

Wednesday 6th	Pub Meet (No Walk) Trading Post, Kettering, from 8pm. Meet at the pub to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc. Maps Of Pub Location - Local Area Wider Area
Sunday 10th	Area AGM Preceded by two walks - 10 miles, starting at 10am, lead by Mark taking in the villages of Knotting Yellen and Newton. 5.5 miles starting at 12noon lead by John taking in Newton. Both walks start at Rushden Scout Headquarters, located behind Orbit Tyres, Brookes Close off Skinners Hill, Rushden (GR956665). Ample free parking is available two minutes walk away at Duck Street (GR956667) The Area AGM will start at 3pm, after the walks, in the Scout Headquarters. This is being hosted by our group so we need to have a good turnout of our members, to show our support for the Area Committee (which is part of the structure of the Ramblers organisation, and who originally brought our group into being and now provide our funding). There will be two guest speakers - Kate Ashbrook, former National Chairman and now a Member of the Board of Trustees and Eleanor Harris, newly elected as a Trustee and as a younger person herself well placed to represent the perspective of our group. This will be a good opportunity to quiz the speakers on their views on what is happening at national level and put our own across to them. It would be great if we could have a good turnout for this occasion so please give your support. Maps of Walk start / AGM Location - Street Map Local Area Relative to Nearby Towns
Sunday 17th	Local Walk 'New Members Walk' - Turvey, Beds New members are always very welcome to join our group at any time, but as we recognise that early in the new year is a popular time to take up a new activity or look for different opportunities, we provide this special walk to encourage new walkers along. This is a walk of two halves, ideal if you're thinking of joining us for the first time but aren't sure about a full days walking! The morning circular route is 3.6 miles, and the afternoon circular route is 4.5miles; please join us for either half or both! The walking should be quite gentle and easy; there are no hills. Morning start time and location:- 10:30am from the large lay-by just outside of Turvey, as shown on the map below. This lay-by should fit 25 cars, but if there is no room left then please park considerately around the village and meet at the lay-by. (Grid Ref is SP936523) Lunch stop will be at the Three Cranes pub but please bring a packed lunch. If you're doing either half or the whole day you can still join us for lunch; we'll arrive from the morning walk at around 12:15pm and depart again at 12:45pm. Afternoon start time and location:- 12:45pm from the Three Cranes pub in the village If you are thinking of joining us for the first time, you don't have to let us know you're coming, but if you do we can look out for you. You can e-mail us at info@letsgetreadytoramble.org.uk with your name. If you have any questions in advance, please e-mail us at the same address. We look forward to seeing you there! Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative to Nearby Towns John and Erica Leaders
Sunday 24th	Local Walk Figure of 8 walk. Just over 10 miles miles in total . Meet outside The Bull's Head Arthingworth at 10.30 a.m. Please park respectfully in village. no parking advisable outside the Church due to narrow road. Would recommend parking in either Oxendon or Kelmarsh Road. Grid Ref is SP 754 813. For sat navs postcode LE16 8JZ. No car sharing as local walk only. The morning section of the walk is approx 5.7 miles starting at the pub and leaving the village heading out towards towards Braybrooke and then heading back on the Brampton Valley Way. Please NOTE powerful torches are essential ! for long tunnel section. Arriving just before 1pm, lunch can be taken in either cars or the Rambler friendly Pub. The landlord Kevin assures us there will be plenty of home made soup and crusty bread available for under a fiver. mulled wine and sticky toffee was also available. The landlord states they often have famous people visiting the pub . The author Daphne Machon lives in the village. Male ramblers may be interested to know the cheeky girls visisted recently and for the ladies the male cast of Hollyoaks were there for a stag do. Plus a Birds Of a Feather star is often there. After lunch approx 1.30pm the afternoon section is approx 4.5 miles heading out towards Thorpe Underwood and then a small road section towards Harrington where there is the site of a Manor House. Completing the walk at the start point approx 3.15 to 3.30pm Pub Web Site Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative to Nearby Towns John A and Paul leaders
Sunday 30th	Local Walk A figure of 8 walk starting in the village of Farthingstone. Grid Ref SP 613 550. Meet at 10.30am outside the King's Arms after parking thoughtfully around the village. The morning walk of 5 miles takes in the village of Maidford before heading back to Farthingstone via Knightley Wood. Lunch is in the village of Farthingstone and will include a trip to the Kings Arms in the village (Camra listed). The afternoon walk of 4.4 miles heads out towards Upper Stowe before heading down to Litchborough and back to Farthingstone. Meet at the pub at 1pm for the afternoon only. As timings are approximate it is best to Contact Andy in advance if you are planning to do just the afternoon. Pub Info Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative to Nearby Towns Andy leader

February

Wednesday 3rd	Pub Meet (No Walk) The Priory, Wellingborough, from 8pm. Meet at the pub to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc.
Sunday 7th	National Walk Meet for a 10.30am start in the village of Hallaton (located 12 miles ese of Leicester & 6 miles north of Corby) park considerately around the village and meet outside the church (Grid Ref SP787965) Walk is approximately 10 miles taking in the villages of Stonton Wyville & Welham before returning back to Hallaton. Lunch is in one of the villages with a pub stop planned for early pm (in Welham) Points of interest include a Norman motte & castle, great views from a hill, plenty of wildlife and part of the walk along the river Welland. Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative to Nearby Towns Lee & Kath leaders
Sunday 21st	Local Walk Meeting in the village of Southwick (Grid ref: TL017920) at 10:30am. There is street parking along Main Street leading up to the Church which we start the walk.  The walk is approximately 9 miles long. The morning portion is just under 5 miles and is a combination of woodland and open fields. Do note that if checking the route on the OS map (Explorer 224) the field portion up near Hostage and Briary Woods is easily avoided by making a slight detour and following the grassy perimeter bordering the stream. This avoids a lengthy trek through a plowed field so sorry to disappoint if anyone is partial to walking on stilts! This walk should provide a good opportunity for some bird spotting so for the budding ornithologists among us keep your eyes peeled for Red Kites, Sparrowhawks, Kestrels and more. A stop is planned at the Kings Head in Apethorpe. It serves real ale and has ample seating outside if we are a bit on the muddy side. The afternoon portion is approximately 3.7 miles and takes us past Tomlin Woods and a couple of other woody bits.  Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative to Nearby Towns Emma leader
Friday 26th to Monday 1st March	Weekend Away Peak District Accommodation is Darwin Forest Country Park in the Peak District, near Matlock and Bakewell. Some of you will know that we have been to this park the last two years and have found it well worth returning to; please see the link below for more details. Dates are Fri 26th to Mon 1st March, a 3 night stay and the cost will be approx. £50 per person for the accommodation if we fill all the places, plus approx £10 for breakfast and lunch food that we'll provide. Please let us know if you'd like to join us and we'll book the lodges. We'll then need a small deposit (£15) to confirm your booking. More Info NOW FULLY BOOKED - RESERVE LIST OPERATING Contact John and Mel if interested

March

Wednesday 3rd	Pub Meet (No Walk) The Turnpike, Harpole, from 8pm. Potential new members are particularly welcome at these pub meets, as it allows you to find out more about us without committing to actually going on a walk!! For established members they are a chance to find out more about our latest trips and events. Maps of pub location Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns
Sunday 7th	Local Walk A 9 mile walk round Stowe deer park, visiting many of the monuments and follies dotted round the park. Meet at 10:30am at the National Trust car park for Stowe Landscape Gardens (SP676381). Park at the far end of the car park, away from the main entrance to the gardens (which you have to pay to visit). Please bring a packed lunch. The morning walk is a leisurely stroll through the deer park, passing several monuments and the impressive Corinthian Arch to Chackmore village to the Queens Arms pub for a lunch stop. After lunch we walk round the park close to Stowe gardens and we will see more temples and monuments in the gardens, and a short walk in the woods to finish off the day. Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Tim leader
Sunday 21st	Local Walk Wootton to Salcey Forest and back A circular walk of 11 miles, 6 in the morning and 5 in the afternoon, from Wootton Fields to Salcey Forest and back. Lunch will be taken at Salcey Forest and you can either bring sandwiches or purchase something from the well stocked reasonably priced cafe.....or both!! Meet at 10:30am by the shops on Wootton Hope Drive on the Wootton Fields estate. There is a good sized car park with ample parking. Directions from the Queen Eleanor roundabout on the A45 are to take the Newport Pagnell road past Wyevale Garden Centre. At the second roundabout turn right into Wootton Hope Drive. The shops can be found about 500 metres down on the right. Grid reference is SP 768 567 or postcode (of the Indian Takeaway!), which I expect most people will find more useful, is NN4 6DY. If anyone would like to do just the morning or the afternoon walk then please Contact Mark and this can easily be arranged. The afternoon walk will start around 1:15pm. Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Mark leader
Sunday 28th	National Walk Walk starts from Tilton on the Hill - Grid Ref SK741057 Park round the village, meet at the church at 10.30am About 10 miles Taking in Lowersby Hall, Baggrave Hall and Quenby Hall famous for their Stilton cheese. About an hours drive from Northampton Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns John leader

April

Monday 5th Easter Monday	Local Walk Fermyn Woods Meet at Fermyn Woods County park at 10:30 (off the A6116 near Brigstock) There is a car park fee - £2 Figure of 8 walk. Very easy going in the afternoon The morning walk will be just over 5 miles taking in the outskirts of Fermyn Woods, crossing the fields to Lyvden New Beild (An unfinished Elizabethan country house built by Sir Thomas Tresham) before heading back to the cars for lunch. The afternoon walk will be a leisurely 2-3 miles on the forest paths and tracks and will be suitable for people with small children as it is buggy friendly. For the afternoon only meet at 1.30. Then back to the car park for tea and cake. Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Gayle & Steve leaders
Wednesday 7th	Pub Meet (No Walk) The Windhover, Chapel Brampton, from 8pm. Potential new members are particularly welcome at these pub meets, as it allows you to find out more about us without committing to actually going on a walk!! For established members they are a chance to find out more about our latest trips and events. This is also when we will be planning the New Walks Programme for July to December, volunteers are needed to lead all walks and organise the weekend away. Pub info (NB location map on this page is wrong!) Maps of pub location Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns
Sunday 18th	Local Walk Figure of eight from Grendon. Meet at the Half Moon pub after parking sensibly around the village. (SP 876 602) The walk is a figure of 8, approx 5-6 miles in the morning and no more than 3 in the afternoon. Lunch will be in the village. Meet at 10.30 for the morning and 1pm for the afternoon only. Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Pub Info Vicki B leader
Sunday 25th	Local Walk Cotterstock, East Northants Please meet in front of the Village Hall in Cotterstock after parking considerately around the village, for a 10:30 am start. This start location is shown on the map below. There probably won't be oodles of parking so please could you car share where possible. The morning is 6 miles to Barnwell Country Park, passing through the village of Ashton (where the world conker championships are held!), and then a few miles of walking alongside the River Nene. The afternoon is 4 miles, from the Country Park through Oundle and out across the fields, back up to Cotterstock. Lunch will be at Barnwell Country Park where there are picnic tables and a tea shop, (sells sandwiches, cakes, ice creams etc according to web site as well). Lunch should be approx 12:45 until 1:30. If you'd prefer to do either the morning or afternoon of the walk only, this can be arranged by parking in or near to the country park and getting a lift to or from the start / end of the walk. Please contact Mel if you want to do this and need any help arranging a lift etc. (Parking at Barnwell costs £2 but there are streets nearby for free). If you're joining us for the afternoon you just need to be at the country park for 1:30, but may be best to let me know so we can look out for you! Directions - From most areas of Northampton it seems best to take the A45 until it reaches the A14, then go straight over the A14 onto the A605. Cotterstock is signposted to the left just after you passOundle on the A605. From the Kettering area it looks like you'd take the A14 to the A605 junction, and from Corby there's the A427 heading East. Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Mel leader

May

Friday 30th April to Monday May 3rd Bank Holiday Weekend	Northumberland Weekend Staying at a caravan park in Northumberland not far from the coast, Seahouses, Holy Island and Alnwick. NOW FULLY BOOKED More Info Location of Site: Google Streetmap Organised by John
Wednesday 5th	Pub Meet & Evening Walk The first evening walk of the year will be on Wednesday 5th May from Stoke Bruerne. Meet in the car park at the Navigation pub (Grid Reference: SP 744 498 or postcode: NN12 7SD) at 7:30pm 4 mile walk taking in the the village of Shutlanger, the Grand Union Canal and Blisworth Tunnel (not through it though!). If you can't make the walk then we'll be in the pub from around 9pm! Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Mark leader
Friday 7th to Sunday 9th	Waendel Walk Here are the final results for who would like to do what and when on the Waendel Walk - Saturday 8th 42 Km 26 Miles Walk Red Route - Ramble Vicki B, Belinda, Tim Preferred start time for this walk is 7.30 am Saturday 8th 25 Km 16 Miles Walk Blue Route - Ramble Andy, Claire, Mel, Paul Lyman, Trigger, Andrea Deveraux, Tom (Sat or Sun), Ayesha, Fatima Start time for this walk has been agreed as 9am On Sunday there is no general agreement. For more details see the Waendel Walk website
Sunday 16th	Bluebell / Pub Lunch Walk On May 16th I will be leading a walk with a difference - this will be a six mile walk taking in reservoirs, bluebell woods and a canal but rather than eating our sandwiches for lunch we will end by having a full Sunday lunch! This will be at a pub called the Blue Bell, which does probably the best value carvery anywhere - for £6.50 you get lots of meat as well as a platefull of veg, you can literally have as much as you want! We have space reserved for approx 30 people in a marquee at the front of the pub, adjacent to the canal. If it is really good weather we will therefore be able to enjoy the sunshine but if not we will stay dry!! We can park in the pub car park, although they have been told it will only be 10 or so cars so as many people as possible need to car share - as previously advised you should meet at Sixfields, near Frankie and Bennies, for a 9am departure. If you have to travel alone then still best to park in the lanes as we really don't want to take over half the car park!! If you are not eating you will need to park away from the pub. We need to be back at the pub between 2 and 2.30 at the latest so we need to get a prompt 10.30 start to the walk, so we get time to look at the bluebells!! The meeting point is the car park at the rear of the Blue Bell pub, Warings Green Road, Solihull, B94 6BP (Grid Ref SP 128 743). Please note that I will meet you at the start of the walk in Warwickshire, I will not be at Sixfields. Those who are meeting there please depart promptly at 9am If anyone can no longer come please contact Andy to free up your reserved place, similarly if you would like to come and are not on the list let him know so you can have any place which is freed up (currently there may be one free place). Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Google Map Suggested Routes From Google - Any of these is OK, M45 is slightly shorter but more urban Andy leader
Wednesday 19th	Pub Meet & Evening Walk Here are the details of Ian's interesting evening walk - The best evening walk of the year will be on Wednesday 19th May from Fotheringhay Church. Park sensibly along the main road in Fotheringhay near the awesome church and meet at the Falcon Pub (Grid Reference:TL060933 Explorer Map 227 postcode:PE8 5HZ) at 7:30pm for a just shy of 4 mile stroll taking in the the green and pleasant fields of North Northamptonshire. Fotheringhay has a few secrets waiting to be discovered!! If you cannot make the walk then maybe take five minutes from 9pm over a pint to see the church from the Pub Garden. I am hoping to be allowed to have a quick wander around inside the church during the evening, If anyone would like to. Don't think you will be disappointed. The village has no street lights so bring a torch if your scared of the dark coming out of the pub! Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Ian leader
Sunday 23rd	Local Walk Meet at Wakerley Great Wood Picnic area off the A43 at 10.30 (SP 961 986) Morning walk to Laxton Hall, and the villages of Laxton and Wakerley Back to the Picnic area for lunch Afternoon section (starting at about 1pm) over to Kings Cliffe, back through Fineshade Woods, with afternoon tea in the Cafe at Top Lodge. Approx length 8 miles This is a figure of 8 walk, you can join us at 1pm for the afternoon only. Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Claire & Andrew leaders

June

Wednesday 2nd	Pub Meet & Evening Walk Meet at the George pub Brixworth at 7.30pm. Scenic 3/4 miler walk with panoramic local views. Surprisingly interesting scenery. Taking in part of Brampton Valley Way, local farm few hillocks. Back at the George pub for refreshments at 9pm. Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Google Map Grid Ref SP 748 707 Sarah leader
Sunday 6th	National Walk THIS WALK WILL BE GOING AHEAD AS THERE IS ENOUGH INTEREST Please meet at Sixfields if possible so we can car share National Walk The Cotswolds The Walk:A 9.8 mile circular walk from Chipping Campden to Broadway and back, via three hills of varying heights. Total ascent is 443m but it is not an unduly strenuous walk (although there are some steep bits!). The walk features some excellent Cotswolds scenery, with impressive views for many miles, two immaculately preserved Cotswolds stone villages and a chance to climb a stone tower on a hilltop. Also a pub stop in the village of Broadway - or for those with other interests, Broadway offers the usual cake shops, cafés, gift shops etc as well and there will be time to stop there for a little while. So it is probably a good idea to bring boot coverings (i.e. carrier bags!). Meeting:Meet at Sixfields, Northampton, at 9am for car sharing and / or in Chipping Campden at 10.30am. Meeting point in C.C. is the car park in the grounds of Chipping Campden School, Grid Ref SP 154 395, directions below. Directions:Best way to get to Chipping Campden from Northampton is as follows: A43 past Towcester to Brackley, A422 to Banbury, A361 to Chipping Norton, A44 towards Evesham. But before you get to Evesham, take the B4081 to Chipping Campden (just after Moreton in Marsh and Bourton on the Hill). This will bring you into the south of the village. When you get to the main road in the village centre, turn right. Continue along the main road, through the centre, and look out for a sign, pointing right, to "Coach and Car Park" at the far (eastern) end of the village. The sign also directs towards"Campden Research Association" and "Sports Centre", the road leading to the car park from the main road is Cidermill Lane. After a short distance along this you will see a sign for Chipping Campden School on the left, this is what you want. You should then see a large car park! (Which is open to the public, we will not be trespassing on school property!!) Alternative route is the B4035 from Banbury direct to Chipping Campden. With this route you will reach the car park before the centre of the village, it will be on your right. The walk is a slightly modified version of This Walk From Walking Britain (cut down from 11 miles). Maps of Walk Start - Relative To Nearby Towns Local Area Street Level Chipping Campden Website Andy leader
Saturday 5th to Saturday 12th	Week Long Trip Cuillin Hills FULLY BOOKED Vicki B organiser
Wednesday 16th	Pub Meet & Evening Walk Meet at the Ock and Dough for 7.30 Approx 4 mile walk towards Hardwick, then across the fields to Great Harrowden and back to the pub. Meet at the pub for drinks only from 9.00 Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Grid Ref SP 884 696 Claire & Andrew leaders
Sunday 20th	Local Father's Day Walk This is our official "bring your Dad on a walk" Father's Day walk so bring him along if he is up for it! Half of the walk can be done by prior arrangement if 11 miles seems a bit much!! Starting at Weedon Bec. Meet at the Jubilee car park at 10.30 (signposted "Village Centre Parking"). This is at the recreation ground and it's free parking. This is a circular walk and will be approximately 11 miles. The morning will be about 6 miles starting along the canal and then heading through Upper Heyford and along the fields to Little Brington which will be our lunch stop. There is a small green where we can either eat our lunch or at the pub. The afternoon will start around 1pm and will be approximately 5 miles walking through the fields and down to the Grand Union Canal and heading back to our starting point in Weedon Bec. Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Google Streetview Grid Ref SP 631 595 Chris G leader
Saturday 26th	Annual BBQ The annual BBQ has been arranged this year at a field in Bedfordshire! (actually it is a campsite!) The plan is to camp out overnight, with the BBQ starting in the afternoon and into the evening / night. So we can make the most of the sunshine, which I have also pre- booked, arrive from 3pm onwards. We can start proceedings with a few games, possibly a mini sports day, after the tents are up. However you do not have to arrive this early or stay overnight and the main event will be from 5-6pm onwards.  Bring something for the BBQ and also bring some drink - however, there is a plan to get a polypin from Frog Island / Great Oakley Brewery, so if real ale is to your taste you will be able to share in this (obviously contributing to the cost). Let Andy know in advance as we will need a few people to make sure it all gets used, or if there is big demand maybe we will need two   Much more than a BBQ, this is the AGM, when we elect the committee for the next year and also the annual awards ceremony, when members are rewarded / humiliated for their actions during the year!  As usual this will include Best Walk, Best Weekend and Best Social, for which we will vote on the night.  There will also be an award for "Best Long Trip" but as we only have one a year usually this will go right back in time to the first one to the Scilly Isles!  Also there will be an award for best photo, which this year will again include a new sub category "Best Photo Which Is Not A Comedy Picture Of Andy" to allow any serious photos of nice views etc to get a look in!  All photos on our website taken since the AGM last year are eligible, so on the 2009 photo page this is anything including or above Tuscany, Chipping Campden and Book Club, and everything on the 2010 page. Please send your nominations for best photo so we can get it down to a reasonable shortlist!  There will also be "Best Book Club Book" to be voted for by book club members, who will be getting details soon.   We will also have various "comedy" awards, eg "best blisters" etc including the "Golden Boot Award" (for outstanding achievement / stupidity!). If you have any ideas for suitable awards contact Andy with your suggestions! Full details of the exact location of the field / campsite to follow!!
Sunday 27th	Local Walk From BBQ Location John leader

July

Sunday 4th	National Walk Stonehenge Walk (Druid costume optional) For car share meet at Sixfields for an 8.15am departure. The start point is a (free) car park at Recreation Road, Amesbury. Post code for Satnavs is SP4 7BB. Grid Ref SU 149 410. The walk is approx 11.3 miles in total which includes a few hills and tarmac sections. The morning section is just over 3.5 miles which goes past Sting's secluded home which is called The Lake House. Then Crossing the River Avon at Durnford Mill where wild Brown Trout can be seen in this crystal clear chalk river. Stopping for an early lunch on a small grass area by the River Avon next to The Bridge Inn. Food is NOT permitted in the beer garden unless purchased in the pub. After lunch walking through open countryside towards Stonehenge passing a Polo field. If all goes to plan and we are opposite Stonehenge on or before 2.30pm, we have a choice depending on what people want to do. We can either have a short break or a 30 minute stop which would enable people to cross the busy A303 to an adjoining public footpath so people can get even closer for photos and use the public toilets. Assuming there is a 30 minute stop here the cars are approx 1.5 hours away which would give an eventual finish time of approx 4.30p.m. Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns John A leader
Wednesday 7th	Pub Meet and Evening Walk Meet at 7.30pm outside the Saracen's Head Little Brington for a walk of approx 4.5 miles, taking in the attractive villages of Great Brington and Whilton (lots of stone and thatch!) before returning to Little Brington for a drink at around 9.15pm. There is an option to cut out Whilton reducing the walk to 3.5 miles if the weather or darkness is against us! However this would only be an emergency option as does make it a bit too short. Shorts friendliness rating - 9 (a few stingers but generally avoidable!) Cow rating - low (one field of cows but they didn't move much!) During the recce there were lots of butterflies on one section as well as quite a few rabbits and some unidentified birds! We also pass briefly through woods which have a sign promising lots of birds. The ground was very dry for the recce so barring heavy rain between now and Wednesday you will be fine in trainers. Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Grid Ref - SP 661 637 Andy leader
Sunday 18th	National Walk The walk is to the Roaches in the Peak District, time to get there is approx 2 hours via M1 and approx 100 miles. It is approx an 8.5 mile walk and may take up to 5 hours The start will be from the Roaches Gate car park (SK004622) There is a steep climb via a flight of stone steps to the ridgetop where excellent views can be had of the surrounding area as long as the weather is good on the day. There could be sightings of Peregrine Falcons and Red Grouse. Lud's church is on route and this is a chasm which we walk through and then descend into some woods and ascend out of them. There is a climb up Hen Cloud, from the summit there will be good views again of surrounding area. There is a Roaches Tea Room near by so there maybe a chance to have some light refreshments after our decent off Hen Cloud before heading back to the cars. Provisional start time is the usual 10.30am, which means an 8.20 meet at Sixfields for an 8.25 departure. The walk has yet to be fully reccied and as your webmaster is away for the next week any updates after the reccie this coming Sunday will be e-mailed out by Elaine and will appear on the group messageboard and the Facebook page - links below Messageboard - For Updates Facebook Page - For Updates Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Elaine and Paul leaders
Wednesday 21st	Pub Meet & Evening Walk Meet Castle Ashby 7.30pm (SP 860 595) Starting from the Falcon pub in Castle Ashby this walk meanders via Castle Ashby House, then drops down past a cute village called Chadwick, then goes off at a tangent to an isolated farm and woodland and over fields to the village of Whiston. There on a hill is a church! From the church, the route goes back again by field and road to Castle Ashby where refreshments will be taken in the Falcon pub - a pleasant and fairly posh pub. It's about 4 miles and is actually longer than most of my walks and pretty scenic! Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Sarah leader
Sunday 25th	Local Walk Meet outside church in Badby for a 10.30 start c10 mile circular walk taking in Fawsley Church, Preston Capes, Everdon and Newnham. Pub stop on route. Grid Ref SP 559 587 Maps of Walk Start - Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Clive leader

August

Wednesday 4th	Pub Meet and Evening Walk Stanwick Lakes. Please park in the lay bye close to Rushden and Diamonds football ground. 3-4 mile walk then after at Rushden for a drink at Ian's award wining railway bar. Walk starts at 7.30 or meet in the bar from 9.00 for drinks only. People will need to pay £1 to go in as we are not members. Maps of Walk Start Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Vicki B leader
Sunday 8th	Local Walk Bozeat Meet 10.30 am outside the post office (Spar shop) High St. Bozeat. Please park respectfully nearby. Post code for sat navs NN29 7JH Approx 11 mile walk. The 7 mile morning section leaves the village passing through remote countryside walking on part of the Milton Keynes Boundary Walk. Assuming the weather is sunny I would not recommend shorts as some of the paths were not well used and were overgrown in fact combat trousers probably a better choice! There are quite a few stiles but minimal tarmac walking. Arriving approx 1.15 pm at the picturesque village of Yardley Hastings for lunch at the Charles Wells pub The Red Lion. Permission has been granted for us to eat our pack-ups in the beer garden. There is an alternative nearby at tea rooms at the church which will serve cream teas but i would have to ring on the day with numbers so they can open early. After lunch heading out of the village to Easton Maudit passing a model aircraft enthusiast field and a landing strip just outside the village. The walk should finish approx 3.45pm Maps of Walk Start Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns John A and Paul leaders
Sunday 15th	National Walk London We will start from the Orme Square Gate entrance to Kensington Gardens at 11am enjoying a day walking through the Royal Parks, the plan is then to walk to Covent garden for some tea before returning home. We will buy a day travel card. By London Underground Nearest stations: Use District or Circle lines to High Street Kensington (10 - 15 minutes walking time to the palace) Use Central Line to Queensway (10 - 15 minutes walking time) or Notting Hill Gate (20 - 25 minutes walking time). Lots of photographic opportunities. Bring some lunch Dress Code: like a tourist with good footwear, not forgetting waterproofs if the weather looks a bit dodgy. Please contact Vicki if you need help getting there or want me to arrange for you to travel with someone else. There are options for the train, but I think the general opinion is to drive down to Swiss Cottage or my preferred station is Cockfosters as there is a large car park just close to the station but there is a charge. About 1hr 30 then in on tube. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ More Info on getting there -   Train Times: Leave Northampton 8:53 Leave MK 9:11 Arrive Euston 10:13 Parking at MK station is £4 for day on Sunday. Half price sale - buy tickets on web, think you can pick them up from the machines at station. You have to buy underground tickets when you get to London. http://www.londonmidland.com/tickets-and-fares/summer-rail-sale/ Or you can buy 3 or 4 tickets from price of 2, this also includes travelcard which you can just buy at the station. http://www.londonmidland.com/tickets-and-fares/tickets-and-fares/group-travel/   Driving option: Swiss Cottage is 1hr5m drive from Northampton and ~25 mins on the tube. Cockfosters is 1hr15m drive and ~50 mins on the tube. Parking is apparently £1 all day on Sundays. However, Swiss Cottage is not advisable: Jubilee Line: Saturday 14, Sunday 15 August, no service between Stanmore and Waterloo. Replacement buses operate. There are significant other engineering works on the tube this weekend, so worth warning people that are making their own plans to check here: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/livetravelnews/realtime/track.aspx?offset=weekend The Jubilee and Metropolitan lines are the worst and the Northern line also isn't looking too clever.   Other options: Northampton is 1h20m train to Euston at £11.45. Milton Keynes is 1h02m train to Euston at £7. Watford Junction is an hour drive, £5 parking, and 20 mins from Euston overground at £4.40. Tube from Euston is 15 mins. These prices are for London Midland only, and exclude tube, which for a travelcard is £5.60 Cockfosters is Zone 5, so £7.50.   Cockfosters option seems the most sensible!   Contact Vicki in advance if you would like to go on this walk   Vicki B leader
Wednesday 18th	Pub Meet and Evening Walk Please meet at 7:30pm outside The Chequers pub in Rothersthorpe, postcode is NN7 3JB and grid ref is SP 717 568. Please park on streets nearby rather than in the car park where possible. The walk will be 4 miles, going along the Grand Union canal to the village of Gayton, and then returning to Rothersthorpe across the fields. We should be back at the pub by 9pm for a cheeky drink if you justwant to meet us there instead! NB Not very Shorts Friendly !! Local Map Relative to Nearby Towns Mel leader
Friday 20th to Sunday 22nd	Weekend Away Near Dover, Kent Now fully booked for B&B Possibility of some camping spaces Organised by Vicki B

September

Wednesday 1st

Pub Meet Toby Carvery, Northampton, from 8pm. Meet at the pub to find out more about the group and future walks, trips, events etc. NB This is the Toby Carvery in East Hunsbury (near Wootton off the A45) and NOT the other Toby Carvery in Round Spinney ! Pub location will be different each month of the autumn / winter to cover all parts of the county before evening walks start again in May. Map of pub location

Sunday 5th	National Walk The walk is 8-9 miles, starts from Charlbury in Oxfordshire, and it's really nice. "Charlbury lies at the heart of what was once the royal Forest of Wychwood, which covered much of what is now west Oxfordshire, and where the deer were reserved for the king to hunt. Over the centuries, much of the woodland was cleared for farmland and settlements. The largest remaining piece of this ancient woodland, which lies to the south-west of Charlbury, was - until the 1980s - out of bounds to walkers, as no official right of way was recorded by the local authority on its definitive map, drawn up in the 1950s, despite evidence of woodland trails having been used by locals for centuries. Thanks to a seven-year campaign by Oxfordshire Ramblers, a public footpath was finally created through Wychwood Forest in 1988, saving a long walk round the perimeter and providing an essential link for a very pleasant circular route from Charlbury. As well as Wychwood´s unspoilt oak, beech and ash woodland, it visits a charming 12th-century church in Shorthampton and the grand parkland of Cornbury Deer Park." And there will be a pub! Meet at 10:30 on the village green in Charlbury. Parking is available behind the Co-op on Enstone Road (postcode is OX7 3QR) which is opposite the village green, or around the village. For car-sharing meet at Sixfields at 9.20 to leave at 9.30. There is a 25-mile sponsored walking event in aid of the NSPCC going on in the area on the same day, but this shouldn't cause us any problems. Maps of Walk Start Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Chris B leader
Sunday 12th	Local Walk The walk is just over 9 miles long. Please meet at 10.30am in the free car park on the corner of Mill Lane and St Andrews Street in Biggleswade.  Post code for sat navs is SG18 8BQ.    We start at Mill Lane and pick up the footpath across the fields heading towards the Old Warden Aerodrome and Shuttleworth Collection, where there is a model airplane display on. Unfortunately due to this we couldn´t do the original planned visit but we will see some model planes no doubt! We pick up the Old Warden circular walk. We will see some ofthe old estate buildings and the pretty thatched cottages so bring your cameras.  This first section of the walk is just under 5 miles. The pub stop will be at the Hare and Hounds in Old Warden about 12.30ish.  It is OK to eat our packed lunches in the garden if there are not too many customers, so we need to check on the day, failing that there is some grass opposite and we can take our drinks over, as long as we take the empties back!!!!! After lunch we head through the pine woods and then head back across the fields via the village of  Broom to pick up the Kingfisher Way which runs alongside the River Ivel to return to the cars, being back at 3.30 at the latest. Its Dave´s birthday on the Sunday so we are planning to have a few drinks in Biggleswade Market Square afterwards to celebrate.  I know a real ale house about two minutes walk from the car park!. Driving time is about an hour from Northampton!! Maps of Walk Start Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Debs leader
Sunday 26th	Baton Walk The Baton Walk is part of the celebration of the Ramblers 75th anniversary, with walks being organised across the country. Our area has organised a 75 mile walk across Northamptonshire, with each group leading a section on consecutive days. We are leading the final section on the Sunday. We will meet up Tinwell Village Hall, the end of the walk, at 10.30am and take full cars to the start of the walk, leaving all other cars at the village hall. The hall is booked so we can have tea and coffee after the walk (and cakes if people are willing to make them - any volunteers?) The start of the walk is Bulwick Church, we will stop for lunch in Duddington where we can sit on the village green and anyone wishing to do the afternoon only can join us. There is also a pub if we want a pint. The afternoon walk will head along the Welland Valley back to Tinwell for coffee and tea and cakes. After the drinks the cars left there can transport people back to their cars at Bulwick. The morning will be 5 miles and afternoon will be 6 miles. Grid Refs and Map Links - Tinwell Village Hall (car drop off and end) - TF 005 063 - Local Map - Wider Area Map Bulwick Church (start of walk) - SP 961 942 - Local Map - Wider Area Map Duddington (lunch and start of afternoon) - SK 988 008 - Local Map - Wider Area Map More details of 75th Anniversary Details of other sections of the Baton Walk   John leader

October

Sunday 3rd	National Walk A 8.5 mile walk starting at 10:30am from the large free car park at West Wycombe next to the garden centre on Chorley Road (Grid Ref SU825947, Postcode for sat nav HP14 3AP). To reach West Wycombe from Northampton, the best way is via the A43 & M40, leaving M40 at Junction 5. Follow the A40 towards High Wycombe and as you enter West Wycombe village, take the first left past the 30 signs, signposted Car Parks & Bledlow Ridge. The car park is on the left just after the garden centre. For car sharing meet at Sixfields, near Frankie and Bennies, at 9am. The walk is in the Chilterns Hills, to enjoy the autumnal colours of the many beech woods, pretty English villages, a mausoleum & church on top of a hill with great views, the grounds of Hughenden Manor (home of Victorian Prime Minister Disraeli), and to finish off, an old fashioned sweet shop! Please bring a packed lunch, we will be visiting the pub tucked away in Downham Common for a quick drink and to eat our sandwiches. There are no stiles on this walk for anyone to injure themselves on ;-) Maps of Walk Start Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Tim leader
Wednesday 6th	Pub Meet The Chequers, Rothersthorpe, from 8pm onwards. This is the same pub we visited after Mel's evening walk in August which is a traditional country pub with a skittles table in the back room. Once again they will be giving us chips! Also this time we will be planning the walks programme for the first half of 2011, which you can see below, so anyone wanting to lead a walk should come along and put their name down (or e-mail in advance if you can't make it). New Walks Programme Jan to June 2011 Pub Location - Local Map Relative to Nearby Towns
Sunday 10th	Local Walk - 10th October (or 10/10/10 !!) West Haddon I've tried to find somewhere different to do this local walk and think most of the footpaths that we'll be walking on will be new to the group. Start point is West Haddon on the A428 from Northampton to Rubgy. Although the village is large, there is nowhere obvious to park, so I suggest that you park considerately around the village and we meet by the post office which is opposite the Pytchley Inn (Grid reference SP 632 719 or postcode NN6 7AP). The walk will be about 10 miles over undulating countryside. We shall be in the village of Cold Ashby for lunch - there may or may not be a pub stop so make sure you bring some sandwiches! Start time will be 10:30am as normal (not 10:10am !!) Maps of Walk Start Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Mark leader
Sunday 24th	National Walk 'A day out wandering the Bedfordshire countryside' - Ampthill Great Park-Marston Vale Country Park-Lidlington-Milbrook-Ampthill Great Park Distance - 9.7 Miles Start point - Grid Ref TL 024 381 - Meet @ 10.30am in car park @ Ampthill Great Park located off the A507 road on way to Ampthill take the left turning off A507 (marked Ampthill) and car park is immediately on the left - free parking Walk commences in Ampthill Great Park - with historical monuments dedicated to one of King Henry VIII's wives & some great views We then head towards the Marston Vale Millennium Country Park which is a wetland reserve & part of the Marston Vale forest-lunch with optional tea & cake will be enjoyed outside the lakeside cafe Next stop is Lidlington via the Marston Vale trail where we can have a pub stop (ramblers welcome) Then for the car fanatics it's a stroll around the outskirts of the Millbrook Proving Ground Test Track-used by Top Gear & in James Bond's 'Casino Royale' film & if you're lucky you may see new cars being tested. We then check out Millbrook's golf course & the village of Millbrook following the Greensand Ridge walk back to our start point in Ampthill Great Park (there may be some llamas along the way too) Maps of Walk Start Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Lee and Kath leaders
Sunday 31st	Local Walk We start off in the morning 10.30 start from Hackleton, park carefully in village and meet outside the public house, which is on the main road, Grid ref SP807550. The morning section is approx 5 miles and we will head out towards the Northampton international stadium and may be lucky to see a stock car race in progress as you can just get a glimpse through a gate. We then head on towards Brafield on the Green where we will stop at the pub for lunch, the Red Lion. The afternoon section is approx 5.3 miles. After lunch we head off for little Houghton, there are some lovely cottages and great views then we head back, crossing the busy A428 first, then via fields and tracks. There are quite a few stiles and dogs are welcome as long as behaved and on leads. Lets hope the weather is on our side for this walk. Maps of Walk Start Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Elaine / Paul leaders

November

Wednesday 3rd	Pub Meet The Vane Arms, Main Street, Sudborough, Northamptonshire, NN14 3BX. Meet from 8pm Bar food will be available but also Wednesday is their Steak Night so if anyone wants to arrive early to partake in the gastronomic delights of the Vane Arms please contact Emma who will inform the landlady. This pub has been found by Emma who says "as the challenge was on to find a pub with similar offerings as the last one I can confirm that this one comes complete with a dart board AND skittles.  Hope that works and look forward to seeing you there! " Maps of Pub Location Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns
Sunday 7th	National Walk Warwick and the Kingmaker Stroll along the Grand Union Canal and visit magnificent Warwick Castle. This easy walk offers the opportunity to visit one of the most famous castles in England. Starting from the car park at Warwick Racecourse, a stroll along the tow path of the Grand Union Canal to the River Avon brings you to Castle Bridge. This is always considered to be the classic view of Warwick's magnificent castle. Start at 10.30 in Warwick, meet for car share at Sixfields (near Frankie and Bennies) at 9.20 for 9.30 departure. Walk 5m in the morning and in the afternoon look round the castle and the historic town Park in the Racecourse car park Grid Ref SP277 647 Maps of Walk Start Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Link to walk details on AA website John leader
Sunday 14th	Local Walk A walk in the Bringtons. This walk explores the countryside and villages around Althorp, ancestral home of the Spencer family. Start point is Harlestone Heath laybay on A428 about 1/2 mile south of Lower Harlestone and beside Harlestone Heath garden centre. Meet at 10:30 outside the Garden centre - Grid Ref. SP 712637. It is OK to park in the garden centre car park but park towards the far end away from the buildings. Gates close at 17:00. Or park in the lay-by in front. The route goes across farmland and through woodland and passes three attractive villages containing Tudor style houses, which were built in the mid-19th century. The morning section is approx. 4.7 miles and will head out towards Upper Harlestone before getting to Little Brington where we will stop for lunch at the Saracen's Head. It is OK to eat sandwiches in their garden as long as we all buy a drink. The second part of the walk is about 5.3 miles carrying on towards Great Brington and along Althorp Park, which gives a distant view of the house. The route then follows towards Harlestone and across Northampton Golf Course before heading back to our start point via Harlestone Heath. Maps of Walk Start Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Francisco leader
Friday 19th to Monday 22nd	Weekend Away - Forest of Dean Staying at the Forest of Dean Lodges in Colesford. We will be walking in the local area on Saturday and Sunday, and will stop for a walk in the Cotswolds on the way back on Monday for those wishing to stay on the Sunday night. Now Fully Booked Organised by Claire and Mel Link to lodge details
Sunday 28th	Local Walk East Carlton Country Park 9.5 miles Meet at 10:30 at the main car park at East Carlton Country Park, Corby. Off the A427 Grid Ref: SP 832 893 Address: East Carlton Country Park, East Carlton, Near Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 8YF Parking is free. Please bring a packed lunch The walk starts with a walk through the park before heading out to the pretty village of Ashley where we will stop for lunch and a drink at the local pub before heading back across the fields to Stoke Albany, and Wilbarston before heading back to the country park. If we're back in time there is a tea/coffee/cake stop at the country park for those that need warming up or just generally enjoy cake:0) Maps of Walk Start Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Steve and Gayle leaders

December

Wednesday 1st	Pub Meet The Stags Head, Great Doddington, from 8pm Pub Info Location Map
Sunday 12th	National Walk A walk from Chorleywood 1/2 mile from juntion 18 of the M25 its only 1 hours drive away. Meet at Chorleywood Common Grid Ref TQ033967 The walk will take in the rolling countryside with lots of small woodlands and villages it will be 9 miles and we will stop for lunch at the pub in Belsize Maps of Walk Start Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns John leader
Sunday 19th	Local Walk Santa Hat Walk The day after the Pre-Christmas Soiree is the now legendary "Santa Hat Walk" which we are hoping once again will be lead by Santa himself (although he is very busy at this time of year!) Everyone walking must wear a Santa hat or otherwise dress in a Christmas theme. Due to possible hangovers from the night before the walk traditionally starts a bit later than usual at 11am. Meet in the centre of Bugbrooke, on the small triangular green area with a tree and a red phone box, near to Londis on High Street. Grid Ref SP 677 571 The walk is 6.5 miles and heads out from Bugbrooke through Nether Heyford and as far as The Narrow Boat pub near Weedon before heading back along the canal - a morning of pretty villages and fields and an afternoon of canal views - hopefully it will be snowy / frosty to enhance the views, but not too snowy to impede our progress and make us cold!! The walk can be shortened to under 5 miles (or even less) if the weather is very bad and this can be decided on the day. Maps of Walk Start Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns Google Street View Andy / Santa leader
Sunday 26th	Local Boxing Day walk Start at Brigstock church, park along Sudborough Rd Meet at 11am Walk 8.5 mile though Geddington wood to Geddington for the Geddington fire service squirt off There the pubs will be open and they sell food in the streets. Then back via Stanion If people only want to do half of the walk contact John who can pick them up or run them back to the start of the walk Maps of Walk Start Local Area Relative To Nearby Towns John leader