
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 and safety of our community, individuals who have engaged in such behaviour in the past have been, and will continue to be, removed from the group.
Cooperation & Group Harmony
Non-cooperative behaviour during events, including undermining the organiser or disregarding event guidelines, is equally unacceptable. It shows a lack of respect for the time and effort that goes into organising these experiences for the benefit of all.
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!
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- 🥾 FREE HIKE – Lewes Loop: Hills, Views & Adventure - A Hike You Won’t Forget !Meet outside Lewes Station ( TOP ENTRANCE ) , Lewes
📍 Start & Finish: Outside Lewes Station
Car Park Postcode: BN7 2UP
🕥 Meeting Time: 10:30 AM sharp (or risk running uphill...)
Ready to conquer some hills and collect scenic views?
Join us for a 14 to 17-mile adventure in the stunning South Downs, featuring the mighty Mount Caburn and more beautiful landscapes than your phone’s camera roll can handle.
### 🌄 What’s the Deal?
- Jaw-dropping views shaped by glaciers during the last ice age (so really, nature’s ancient artwork)
- Hilly fun via Kingston, Southease, and Fire Beacon – a route that says, “Yes, your thighs will feel this tomorrow!”
- Approx. 600 metres of elevation gain – it’s not Everest, but it’s not a stroll in the park either
- Moderate to challenging walk, with a slightly fast pace to keep us moving and warm
### 🎒 What You’ll Need:
- Good hiking shoes (your toes will thank you)
- Packed lunch (we’re hiking, not hunting)
- Water (because hydration is happiness)
- Most importantly, a good mood and a sense of adventure
Important Notes:
- Stay Together: Please stay with or behind the hike leader to maintain group pace and cohesion.
- What to Bring: Good hiking shoes, a packed lunch, water, and a positive spirit. Dress for the weather.
- Rules: 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]
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.
📱 For any issues, you can reach me via mobile/WhatsApp at 07830374629.
- 🌳 FREE SUNDAY HIKE – 🌿 London’s Countryside: Farthing Downs & Happy ValleyCoulsdon South Station, Coulsdon
On this 12–14 km adventure, we’ll swap city streets for sweeping chalk downs, hidden valleys, and peaceful woodlands.
Meeting / starting around 10:15 am outside Coulsdon South Station (meeting point & finishing point), the urban world quickly disappears behind us as we step into wide open skies, ancient paths, and landscapes that feel truly wild.
Highlights include:
✨ Panoramic ridge walking on Farthing Downs
✨ Shady woodland trails through Happy Valley
✨ Wildlife-rich grasslands and late-season countryside colours
This hike is the perfect mix of views, variety, and atmosphere — proof that you don’t have to travel far to find nature at its best.***
#### What to Bring
🥾 Good hiking shoes/boots (chalk paths can be slippery when damp)
💧 At least 1L of water + snacks
🧥 Layers & a waterproof jacket (it’s autumn after all!)
📸 Camera/phone for the big sky views
💪 A positive spirit — it’s called Happy Valley for a reason!***
#### Difficulty
Moderate — mostly easy-going with a few short, sharp climbs. A good one if you want a challenge without being wiped out. Everyone is welcome, as I always say, just be ready to push yourself a little.
***
#### Important Notes
- This hike is free, but you are responsible for your own safety and well-being and not the organiser.
- Please stay with or behind the hike leader — this keeps the group together and ensures no one gets lost or left behind.
- Respect people, animals, and the environment.
- Please read our About Us section before signing up to know our values/rules:
👉 https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities
***
#### Post-Hike Social
We’ll finish back at Coulsdon South early afternoon, before lunch, with the option of a drink/snack in a local pub/cafe. 🍻☕
***
#### Contact (lost/late)
📱 WhatsApp: 07830 374 629
***
✨ Let’s end September with sweeping views, woodland trails, and fresh air just outside London. Who’s in?
- FREE HIKE -🌿Royal Views, Rocky Paths & Woodlands: Tunbridge Wells Epic CircularTUNBRIDGE WELLS RAILWAY STATION, TUNBRIDGE WELLS
Tucked away in the Kent countryside, Tunbridge Wells began as an unassuming rural village — until fate intervened. In the early 17th century, a natural chalybeate spring (rich in iron) was discovered, believed to possess powerful healing qualities. Word spread, and soon the area transformed into a fashionable spa retreat for royalty, aristocrats, and seekers of wellness.
By the 18th and 19th centuries, it was a thriving social hub, its elegant promenades and tea rooms filled with the upper class. Its regal status was cemented in 1909, when King Edward VII officially granted it the title “Royal Tunbridge Wells.”
Today, the town retains its historic charm — Georgian architecture, the iconic Pantiles, and the gentle elegance of a bygone era. As we hike through its woods, hills, and hidden corners, we’ll be following in the footsteps of centuries of curious travellers, dreamers, and nature-lovers.
📍 Meeting Point: Outside Tunbridge Wells Train Station
🕥 Meet at: 10:30 AM
🚶♀️ Distance: Approx., 15 to 16 miles Circular Hike.### 🌳 About the Route:
Join us for an invigorating hike through one of Kent’s most picturesque landscapes. This route loops through a patchwork of peaceful woodlands, nature reserves, and open countryside in the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This is a moderate hike and will have some hills.
Along the way, we’ll explore:
- Hidden forest paths and mixed woodlands
- Wildlife-rich nature spots like Broadwater Warren
- Quiet streams, rustic bridges, and serene glades
- Open clearings perfect for a relaxed picnic break
We’ll pass through a rich mix of landscapes — ancient woodlands like High Wood, Chase Wood, Forge Wood, and Birchden Wood, peaceful riverside paths along the River Grom, and scenic open countryside.
Along the way, we’ll also explore the striking sandstone rock formations of Harrison's Rocks, walk near the historic Eridge Rocks nature reserve, and pass charming country hamlets and farmsteads. The route also skirts the edges of Tunbridge Wells Common and offers distant views toward the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, making this a truly varied and beautiful hike.We’ll wrap up the hike with a well-deserved pint at a pub near the station — a great way to relax and chat after the walk.
***
### 🎒 What to Bring:
- Waterproof boots or shoes (it can get muddy in places)
- Packed lunch/snacks and at least 1.5L of water
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- A sense of curiosity and community!
### 🎒 What You’ll Need:
- Proper hiking shoes
- Packed lunch & snacks
- Plenty of water — hydration is happiness
- Layers and weather-appropriate clothing
- A sense of humour, good vibes, and community spirit
***
### 🔔 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
***
### 📱 For any issues, you can reach me via mobile/WhatsApp at 07830374629.