What should I wear?
Warm waterproof clothing and walking boots are essential. Clothing made of  denim material should not be worn since it gets wet very quickly and  dries very slowly.

What equipment do I need?
You will  be outdoors for a long time so you will need water and a packed lunch; a rucksack is the most suitable way to carry your equipment. For your  safety it is recommended that you bring a first aid kit, a whistle, a  torch and a survival bag.

Do I need a map and compass?
While  you should not need a map or compass, bringing them with you is a good  way to learn navigation techniques and could prove essential should you  get separated from the group.

I am not eighteen yet, can I come along too?
Yes, but you must be accompanied by an adult.

Can I bring my dog?
No.

Do I need to book a seat on the bus?
Yes, seats on the bus must be booked in advance. If the bus is fully booked  it is sometimes possible to get a cancellation, therefore, if you are  booked and then not able to go, please cancel your booking. See Contact us for booking a seat on the bus. More booking information

How much does it cost to go on the bus?
The current charge for the bus is £15, however this can change if there is a need to do so. Boat and ferry trips may involve an additional charge;  please confirm when booking.

Where do I get the bus?
The pickup point is in the last car park, on the left side of Beckford Street in Hamilton. [location map] Use the post code ML3 0BT on your sat nav.

What time does the bus leave Hamilton?
The bus normally leaves Hamilton at 8.30am, but on longer journeys, or when a ferry is being used, it may leave earlier. The walk programme will  indicate when there will be an earlier start.

How does the walk grading system work?
The group try to include a full range of walks, to cater for a wide level  of abilities. These vary from a€ A+ the most difficult to a C the easiest walk. These descriptions give a general description for each grade. The walk itinerary, which will be circulated on the day of the walk, will  normally give a more specific description for each walk. If anyone is  any doubt about which walk should be tackled then speak to the walk  leader.

A+

A walk of this grade would normally involve climbing and descending at least 900 Metres / 3,000ft on mountainous  terrain, sometimes over pathless ground. Distance travelled could vary  between 10 - 20KM / 6 - 12 Miles. Not suitable for beginners or  inexperienced walkers.

A

A walk of this grade would  normally involve climbing and descending between 700 - 900 metres /  2,300 - 3,000 ft on mountainous or hilly ground. Distance travelled  could vary between 10 - 20KM / 6 - 12 Miles.

B+

This grade of walk would normally involve  climbing and descending between 550 - 750 metres / 1,800 - 2,500ft on  hilly ground. Distance travelled could vary between 9 - 20KM / 5.6 - 12  Miles.

B

This grade of walk would normally involve  climbing and descending between 400 - 600 metres / 1,300 - 2,000ft on  paths or tracks and may include open ground. Distance travelled could  vary between 9 - 18KM / 5.6 - 11 Miles.

C+

This grade of walk would normally involve  climbing and descending between 250 - 450 metres / 800 - 1,500ft  normally on good paths and tracks. Distance travelled could vary between 8 - 18KM / 5 - 11 Miles.

C

This grade of walk would normally involve  climbing and descending less than 300 metres / 1,000ft normally on good  paths and tracks. Distance travelled could vary between 8 - 15KM / 5 - 9 Miles.

These grades are used for  guidance only. Conditions on the day of the walk can influence the level of difficulty. Conditions that can require the walk to be upgraded  include:

    • Rain and snow
    • Very hot weather
    • Heavy ground conditions after sustained rain

Do I need to join the Ramblers Association?
You are welcome to come along as a guest for up to three walks, before  deciding whether to continue walking with the group, once you decide to  walk regularly with the group, you should then join the Ramblers  Association. You can then get a membership application form the group  secretary, or Join Online at the Ramblers Association website.

Can I get my money back if I cancel a booking for a holiday or event organised by the club?
Payments can only be refunded if the booking can be transferred, or cancelled, without loss to the club
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Clyde Valley Ramblers