
What we’re about
Welcome to the FREE hiking, outdoor fitness, and social activities Group!
About Us - Get ready for new adventures! I’m Amit, the main organiser of this group, and I usually lead the hikes. I was born in India and moved to the UK over two decades ago, where I studied and built my professional career in the legal and financial sectors. I also served in the reserve forces of the British Army’s Royal Military Police and enjoy giving back through community volunteering.
Hiking has always been a deep passion of mine, one I’ve pursued for many years. I founded this group in August 2021 to continue my love for hiking and fitness while connecting with like-minded individuals. Together, we will explore the countryside, breathtaking landscapes, and hidden gems across the UK, with occasional trips abroad. Whether on weekdays or weekends, you'll be part of a friendly, fun, and adventurous community.
What We Offer In addition to hiking, various outdoor and social activities such as running, fitness events, and group trips are organised. Some events include local and international travel. If you're interested, please communicate directly with me.
Who Can Join? Everyone is welcome! People of all age groups are encouraged to join — our participants range from 18 to 75 years old. All you need is an open mind and a friendly, kind attitude towards others. Please be polite, respectful, and courteous to fellow participants and the organiser.
A Note on Spirit and Intention: This group is run entirely voluntarily and driven by a spirit of community, generosity, and shared well-being. I organise and lead these events out of a genuine love for hiking and a charitable instinct to create something positive and inclusive for others. I kindly ask that members approach this group with the same spirit — with kindness, openness, and consideration for others. Please avoid self-centred or entitled behaviour, as it goes against the values on which this community is built. When we each give a little of ourselves, we all gain so much more in return.
What the Group Is About - This group is not only for those who already enjoy staying active but also for anyone looking to start or get back into an active lifestyle. The aim is to promote physical fitness, mental well-being, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors by exploring scenic countryside trails, tackling hills, and discovering hidden gems across the UK and beyond. Hiking offers more than just physical benefits — it builds mental resilience, encourages a positive mindset, and helps clear the mind. Whether you’re climbing a steep hill or pushing through a long-distance trail, these challenges can strengthen your focus, discipline, and confidence. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting, you'll find a supportive community to grow with — physically, mentally, and socially.
Important Guidelines
· Responsibility: Participants are responsible for their safety; the organiser / event host does not accept any liability. The group provides route guidance and event organisation only.
· Risk Acknowledgement: By joining, participants agree to take full responsibility for any risks, including accidents, injuries, transport, insurance, and accommodation costs, etc. In committing/signing up for the hikes/events, you agree to undertake sole ownership of all and any risks associated.
· Location: Events take place in and around London, across the UK, and occasionally abroad.
· Weather: Events will not be cancelled due to bad weather; however, participation is at your own risk.
· Rules: Please read and follow the group rules to ensure a welcoming and friendly environment for everyone. Hikes and events are usually led by me.
· Pets & Children: No pets or underage children are allowed unless express permission is granted by the organiser. Once permission is granted, they may attend all other similar events. Dogs aren’t automatically allowed on hikes, but I’m happy to consider it on a case-by-case basis. Please send me a picture of your dog on WhatsApp first. If approved, you’re welcome to bring your dog on future hikes, provided they’re kept on a lead at all times. The dog must be friendly and well-behaved to ensure other hikers feel comfortable. For longer or more challenging hikes, please bring a suitable dog carrier in case your dog gets tired or needs support along the way. Once the dog is approved, you're free to bring them along on future hikes without asking again or until the permission is withdrawn due to an issue during a hike.
· Pace & Difficulty: Most hikes will be at a medium to fast pace and may not be suitable for those who prefer a much slower pace. Longer hikes (20 km+) require a reasonable level of fitness and the ability to keep up with the group. Regular short breaks will be provided to catch up, take pics, and recover. Shorter days (e.g. during winter or evening/night hikes, etc.) can also contribute to the pace of the hikes. Those who struggle with endurance or medium/fast-paced hiking may find some longer hikes challenging.
Safety Note: I carry a first aid kit on all hikes, so feel free to ask if you ever need it.
Group Etiquette
· Event Sign-Up: Signing up in advance is compulsory, and those who turn up without signing up may be removed from future events or the group or banned.
· Commitment: The events are posted mostly in advance so that you can plan your time. Repeated last-minute cancellations or no-shows may lead to being placed on the waitlist or removed from the event/group.
· Respect and Group Conduct Guidelines: The group is built on the principles of mutual respect, inclusion, and shared enjoyment of the outdoors. We strive to create a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment where everyone feels genuinely seen, valued, and comfortable participating. Our shared experiences are most fulfilling when each member contributes positively to the group dynamic by treating one another with kindness, patience, and consideration—both online and in person.
Respecting others—fellow members, the event organiser, and the group’s guidelines—is not optional; it is fundamental.
Community Values:
As the organiser, my responsibility is to safeguard the integrity, inclusivity, and well-being of this community. Leadership sometimes requires making difficult decisions, and while I always strive to give people opportunities to reflect and improve, persistent or serious issues cannot be ignored.
Respect & Inclusivity
Disrespectful, discriminatory, argumentative, or confrontational behaviour — whether overt or subtle — will not be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to, racism, sexism, ageism, harassment, or any form of prejudice or exclusionary conduct.
To protect the integrity, inclusivity, and safety of our community, individuals who have previously engaged in such behaviour have been, and will continue to be, removed from the group.
The organiser may also refuse participation to anyone whose conduct or ongoing association with individuals removed for serious or discriminatory behaviour compromises the trust, harmony, or well-being of this community.
All decisions are made carefully and in good faith, with the goal of preserving a positive, respectful, and inclusive environment for everyone.
Cooperation & Group Harmony
Non-cooperative behaviour during events, including undermining the organiser, disregarding event guidelines, or creating disruption within the community, is equally unacceptable. It shows a lack of respect for the time, energy, and goodwill that go into organising these experiences for everyone’s benefit.
Individuals who attempt to disrupt the group’s harmony or influence others in ways that undermine the community’s values may be refused participation at the organiser’s discretion. These measures are in place to protect all members and preserve the positive, inclusive, and welcoming spirit of this community.
Positive Atmosphere
While genuine friendships and connections are welcomed and encouraged, all members must prioritise maintaining a positive, respectful, and inclusive atmosphere. Please be mindful of personal boundaries, cultural sensitivity, and the impact of your words and actions on others.
Shared Responsibility
If at any point you feel uncomfortable, witness behaviour that does not align with these values, or have concerns, I encourage you to contact me directly and privately. Maintaining a respectful, inclusive, and safe environment is a collective responsibility, and your feedback plays a vital role in upholding these values.
Thank you for being part of a community that chooses kindness, respect, and accountability.
· Participation Priority: Regular attendees may receive priority if there is a waiting list. This is because of the certainty of attendance.
· Volunteer-Based: The group is run voluntarily; the organiser pays a subscription to maintain the group on this platform.
· Special / Weekend Away Events: Regular attendees may be invited or given priority for special or weekend-away events announced by the organiser. These events, which may have limited spots, might not always be posted on Meetup but instead shared via a separate WhatsApp group for regular participants. Participation in these events is based on factors such as prior participation, demonstrated commitment, and the ability to contribute to a positive group dynamic. Weekend-away trips can be both enjoyable and demanding; therefore, ensuring group cohesion and a supportive atmosphere is important. To facilitate this, regular attendees who have shown commitment, adherence to rules, and reliability may be prioritised. The organiser may set eligibility criteria and/or determine participant selection to foster a friendly, inclusive, and respectful environment, ensuring an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Photography & Social Media By participating in the events, you agree to be in pictures or videos that might be taken by the event host/organiser during the event and which may be used on this and other social media platforms.
Donations The events are completely free, with no expectations. However, if you’d like to support a cause, consider donating directly to Cancer Research UK via https://donate.cancerresearchuk.org/support-us/your-donation?type=single&amount= , or you may donate to any other charity you may deem fit. There is no compulsion or obligation to do so. Thank you.
Copyright Notice
All original written content (including event descriptions, poetry, and narratives, etc) and any other creative works produced by the organiser for this group and its events are protected by copyright. All rights reserved. These materials may not be copied, reproduced, distributed, or used in any way without the express permission of the organiser.
Got Suggestions? Let’s Talk!
We welcome your event ideas and suggestions—feel free to share them with me during an event, as I would love to hear from you. As the hike leader, I set the pace, guide, and keep the group together, which means I might not be able to interact with everyone as much as I’d like during the hike itself. However, I’m always happy to chat before we set off, during breaks, or over post-hike drinks. So please don’t hesitate to come over and say hello! You can also write to me on WhatsApp if you are new to hiking and have questions or inhibitions. You will find my number on one of the events, and I will reply to you at the earliest.
Thanks for joining us and looking forward to seeing you! Our hikes and events are completely free and run voluntarily to bring people together in nature. If you enjoyed the event and had a good time, please consider leaving a 5-star rating and a few kind words about your experience. It helps support the group and encourages others to join. Your feedback means a lot — thank you!
Join us for an adventure, stay fit, and make new friends!
Featured event

🌳 FREE HIKE – Ridge Walk & Beacon Vibes: Hike the Heart of Hertfordshire !
Ready for a day where rolling hills meet ancient history and every turn brings a new view? Join us on a scenic circular hike through the heart of the Chilterns, where we’ll climb to the legendary Ivinghoe Beacon, wander through quiet woodlands, pass tranquil lakes, and take in sweeping landscapes carved by time. This isn’t just a walk — it’s a step back into nature and into the past.
📍 Meeting Point: Outside Tring Station (HP23 5QR)
🕚 Time: Meet at 10:30 AM
🚗 Parking: Station car park available
🔁 Start & End Point: Tring Station
📏 Distance: Approx. 12 to 15 miles
⸻
🌄 What’s the plan?
We’re heading back to Hertfordshire for another unforgettable adventure — this time around Ivinghoe Beacon, one of the highest and most iconic points in the Chiltern Hills.
This prehistoric hillfort, dating back to the Late Bronze Age, stands proudly atop chalk ridges and offers breathtaking views over the Vale of Aylesbury and dramatic dry valleys. Along the way, we’ll explore a diverse mix of landscapes:
🌳 Ancient woodlands
🏞️ Rolling hills
🌊 Quiet lakes
🚶♂️ Scenic open paths
… and yes, a few uphill climbs and road stretches to keep things interesting.
If you enjoy nature with a side of history and big skies, this one’s for you.
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🎒 What to Bring:
• Good hiking shoes or boots (terrain may be muddy or uneven)
• Packed lunch and high-energy snacks
• At least 1L of water
• A torch (in case of late finish)
• Weather-appropriate layers (and waterproofs if needed)
• A good mood and community spirit!
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⚠️ Important Notes:
• Stay Together: Please walk with or behind the hike leader to maintain group cohesion and pace.
• Safety Reminder: This is a voluntary activity, and participants are responsible for their own safety and for respecting fellow walkers, wildlife, and the environment. Please note that no risk or service is inferred or accepted by the organizer.
• Group Guidelines: Please read the “About” section of our group before signing up: 👉 https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities
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🍻 Pub at the Finish Line:
Once we’ve completed the loop join for a drink at a nearby pub — a great way to unwind and chat after the hike.
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📱 Need Help?
If you’re running late or need help finding us, message me on 07830 374629 (WhatsApp/text).
Upcoming events
16
🥾 FREE SUNDAY HIKE – Castle, Battle & Beacon Views: Black Cap Circular 🌄
Lewes Station, B2193, Lewes, GB📅 Date: Sunday, 19th October 2025
⏰ Meeting Time: 10:15 AM (we’ll set off shortly after)
📍 Meeting Point: Outside Lewes Station (easy train links from London & Brighton)
🚩 Finish: Back at Lewes Station, before lunch by 1:30 pm***
### 🌟 Overview
This circular hike is packed with history and views — the perfect South Downs morning escape. We will cover the historic market town of Lewes, we’ll wander past the impressive Lewes Castle, head up onto the Downs, and take in sweeping panoramas from Black Cap and Lewes Beacon.
Along the way, we’ll also pass the site of the Battle of Lewes (1264), where medieval England took a dramatic turn. Expect a blend of town, countryside, and classic ridge walking.Highlights include:
🏰 Lewes Castle – towering above the town with storybook charm
⚔️ Battle of Lewes site – where history shaped the kingdom
🌄 Black Cap trig point – South Downs views at their finest
🔥 Lewes Beacon (Mount Harry) – a historic signalling point with huge panoramas***
### ⚖️ Distance & Difficulty
- Distance - up to 15 km
- Intermediate level – mostly steady walking with some climbs.
- Suitable for all, as I always say, all you really need is the will.
***
### 🎒 What to Bring
- Hiking boots/shoes (paths may be muddy in late October)
- Water & snacks
- Layers + waterproofs (weather can shift quickly on the Downs)
***
### 📌 Notes
- Participation is free, but you’re responsible for your own safety and well-being.
- Please stick with or behind the hike leader to keep the group together.
- Respect nature, other walkers, and the countryside.
- Please read the About Us page before signing up:
👉 Free Hiking, Outdoor Fitness, and Social Activities
***
### 🍻 Post-Hike
We’ll finish before lunch at Lewes and go to a pub, where we can grab food or drinks afterwards.
📲 Contact me (if late or lost): 07830 374 629
76 attendees🎃 Free Haunted Hike in Pluckley – Ghosts, Screams & Costumes Welcome
Pluckley Train Station, Pluckley,, Ashford, TN27 0RT , GBDate: Saturday, 25th October 2025
Start Point: Pluckley Station (direct trains from Charing Cross)***
### 🌙 Overview
Looking for a ghost walk with a difference? Step into the shadows of Pluckley, said to be the most haunted village in England. Our eerie 12 to 14 miles circular hike will take you past ancient pubs, chilling churchyards, and through the legendary Screaming Woods. Along the way, we’ll explore local ghost stories of highwaymen, phantom ladies in red and white, spectral drinkers, and a haunted corner that still echoes with sword clashes.
This isn’t just a walk — it’s a step back into folklore, mystery, and spine-tingling tales. Will you be brave enough to follow?***
### 👻 Spooky Highlights
- The Dering Arms – haunted by a ghostly diner who dresses like it’s still the 19th century.
- St Nicholas’ Church – home of the “Red Lady” and “White Lady” spirits.
- Screaming Woods (a.k.a. Dering Woods) – whispers, screams, and vanishing figures reported for decades.
- Fright Corner – the site where a highwayman met his gruesome end.
- The Black Horse Pub – watch your belongings… the resident ghost loves to move things around.
***
### 📏 Logistics
- Distance: ~12 to 14 miles
- Duration: ~ Approx., 5 hours walking (plus stops for photos and chills)
- Ascent: ~350m– rolling countryside with some stiles
- Difficulty: Intermediate – a decent pace with a few muddy paths. You should be fit to keep up.
***
### 🎒 What to Bring
- Sturdy hiking shoes or boots (costumes welcome, but no flimsy footwear 🎃)
- At least 1L of water, packed lunch, and snacks
- Weather-appropriate clothing (raincoat or layers)
- A torch (just in case we finish late… or the ghosts follow us 👀)
- A brave heart and sense of humour
💀 Optional: You may dress up in your Halloween costumes if you wish 😄 — capes, masks, witches, vampires, or whatever spooky fun you fancy — but make sure those feet are hike-ready!
***
### ⚠️ Important Notes
- This is a group walk, not a guided tour – you are responsible for your own safety. Please make sure to read the About Us section of the group before signing up for the events. https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities/
- Please stay with or behind the hike leader to keep the group together, and be friendly and respectful to fellow walkers, wildlife, and the environment.
- No risk or liability is inferred or accepted by the organizer.
- There may not be any public toilets along the way.
***
### 🍻 After-Walk
We’ll finish back in Pluckley village, where the Black Horse Pub makes the perfect (haunted) spot for a drink before heading back to the station. Who knows… maybe we’ll pick up an extra invisible guest at the table.
***
### 📱 Contact
Running late or lost in the mist? Message me on WhatsApp: 07830 374629.
68 attendeesFREE HIKE – Richmond Park: Ghosts, Deer & Autumn Magic 👻
RICHMOND STATION, AT THE FRONT OF THE STATION, RICHMOND, GBDate: Saturday, 1st November
Distance: 13–16 miles
Start/End: Outside Richmond Station (easy public transport access)***
### 🌳 Overview
A day after Halloween, when the costumes are packed away but the spirits (allegedly) still linger, we’ll set out for a full-day walk blending the best of Richmond Park with a scenic stretch along the River Thames.
We’ll explore open grasslands, shady woodland paths, landscaped gardens, and historic landmarks — all while keeping an eye out for Richmond Park’s most famous non-deer resident…***
### 👻 The Ghostly Tale of Richmond Park
Local legend speaks of a phantom horseman, a mounted 17th-century duellist said to roam the park. Many swear they’ve seen a dark figure galloping silently across the misty grass, disappearing into the trees without a sound.
They say spirits are at their most restless just after Halloween — so, who knows? On a crisp November afternoon, with golden leaves underfoot and the light fading early, the line between folklore and reality might just blur…***
### 🚶♂️ Route Highlights
- Thames Riverside – A peaceful start by the water before heading into the park.
- Isabella Plantation – Ornamental gardens alive with seasonal colour.
- Royal Ballet School Grounds – Pass by this grand and historic site.
- The Tamsin Trail – Richmond Park’s perimeter path with changing landscapes and wide views.
- Deer & Wildlife – The park’s famous red and fallow deer are often seen grazing in the open.
***
### 🎒 What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes or boots (paths can be muddy)
- Packed lunch and snacks
- 1–2 litres of water
- Weather-appropriate clothing (and waterproofs if needed)
- A torch — for late finishes or ghost-spotting
- A good mood and sense of adventure
***
### ⚠️ Important Notes
- Pace: We’ll keep a steady pace to cover the distance comfortably.
- Responsibility: This is a voluntary group walk — you are responsible for your own safety. No risk or liability is inferred or accepted by the organizer.
- Stay Together: Remain with or behind the walk leader to help keep group pace and cohesion.
- Group Guidelines: Read our “About Us” section before joining: 👉 https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities
***
### 🍻 After the Walk
We’ll end back in Richmond — perfect for a warm pub drink and swapping ghost stories while the autumn evening sets in.
***
### 📱 Need Help on the Day?
If you’re running late or can’t find us, message me on 07830 374629 (WhatsApp/text).
***
The costumes may be gone, but the haunting atmosphere lingers… join us on 1st November for a walk filled with beauty, history, and maybe — just maybe — something ghostly in the distance.
109 attendees
Past events
223
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