It’s not just about walking. Henley and Goring Ramblers have an enviable reputation for being a friendly and sociable group. Joining the group is an ideal way to meet people and make new friends, especially if you are on your own or new to the area.

We have en extensive programme of walks to suit all levels, from short walks in the local area to longer more challenging walks nearby and in other areas of the country and abroad. Socialising is part of the walk, whether it is chatting to people as we go or in the pub for lunch or teashop at the end of the day. Trips away are a great way to get to know people better and enjoy meals and social evenings in good company.

We also run purely social events such as the annual Chantry house lecture at end of January – an evening at the historic Chantry House in Henley listening to an interesting speaker, enjoying a glass of wine and a chance to chat to old friends and make new ones. We have had talks on Red Kites, the River Thames, the geology of the local area, and this year our speaker is Nick Millea, Map Librarian at the Bodleian Library, Oxford.

Our AGM is always well attended, possibly because we have a slap-up supper after the meeting, the cost of which is an astonishingly low £6 because our members mostly make the scrumptious food. In summer for the past few years we have enjoyed a barbeque, held sometimes in the garden of a member and for the last two years at Bix Village Hall. Members had a full day’s entertainment – a treasure hunt, a BBQ then circle dancing and other entertainment.

We have a full winter programme and are currently planning the summer 2008 programme. Anyone can contribute an idea and there are some exciting ones in prospect, often combining a walk with another activity such as a boat trip or a tour in a horse drawn cart.

Our members have wide-ranging interests and there are a number of interest groups you can join. The Arts Group is one such thriving group. People put their names on an e-mail list and then get information about outings to films, theatre, ballet, exhibitions, concerts or anything that looks interesting that a member wants to go to with other people. We also have car-sharing groups. In addition to the published programme; any member can set up extra trips for small groups who share similar interests. There is a Book Club and small groups have organised linear long distance walks such as Offa’s Dyke, the South Downs Way and, for 2008, the Two Moors Way.

Our programme is full and varied, but there is always room for new ideas. The main strength of Henley and Goring Ramblers is its openness, friendliness and the opportunities it provides to enrich your life. The health benefits of walking are obvious, but the social life is pretty good too!