Sarah Dolman, Guided Walk Leader for Solemates Walking Club
What led me to set up Solemates Walking Club?
I have had a passion for walking for a very long time now and over the years I have been a keen walking member and Chair person of a local walking group in Norwich, and I have also, led guided walks for the Norfolk Ramblers but I wanted to lead walks for people in a group with a more “young at heart” feel to it, and to make the walks more social too, hence why over four years ago I decide to set up my own walking club.
Why do I charge for my walks?
Well, first and foremost, I believe that walking like most things should have a value on it, and for the full years membership of £20.00 people are able to enjoy the walks or a social events for this amount as much as they like. In addition, it goes without saying there are always costs to include, even with walking, as there is always the advertising to think of and that is just for starters!
What are the walks like?
I try to vary the walks in different areas so that we can enjoy the different landscapes of Norfolk and you may find to your surprise that Norfolk is not that flat, especially around the Sheringham area! We normally walk on Sundays for around two and half hours with a break on route, sometimes I may put on a longer walk of up to ten miles, and during the summer months we have evening walks of around four to five miles in length with refreshments afterwards. A nice way of finishing off an evening walk, hopefully, with a lovely spot by the river!
What do I need to wear bring or wear to the walks?
Firstly, you will need to wear some proper footwear, both in summer and winter in my opinion. The footwear does not need to be highly expensive but just offers some support to the feet. Also, a good waterproof jacket that offers protection, and depending on the time of year, it is best to dress with layers in mind for the varying temperatures we have. We normally bring along some fluids and snacks to have on a break to enjoy along the way.
Can I bring a dog along?
Apologies but we do not allow dogs on the walks for a few reasons. Firstly, I feel that it is an extra issue to consider with regards to cattle, and secondly, not all people like dogs. Plus, I feel there is a time and a place for dog walking, however, not on Solemates Walks.
How many walkers do you have out at a time?
There is no straight answer to this one! On average we like to have around a dozen people out on a walk and these people can be a mixture of ages. A few of them could be couples but most people do come along on their own and find that we are a welcoming and friendly club. Most of our members range from the age of 40 upwards but it is not about age but it is about getting outdoors and enjoying the countryside.
In addition to the walks we also try to have social events, such as quiz nights or meals out and at Christmas time we will have a bigger gathering for a Christmas meal and walk.