
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
Nature of Activity: These are informal social walks organised voluntarily for people who enjoy hiking and outdoor activities. This is NOT a professional guided service, instructional course, or commercial activity. No professional supervision, instruction, or duty of care is provided. The organiser acts solely as a social coordinator, suggesting routes and meeting points.
· Responsibility & Risk: All participants attend entirely voluntarily and at their own risk. Hiking involves inherent risks, including (but not limited to) uneven terrain, adverse weather, slips/trips/falls, navigation challenges, remote locations with limited mobile signal, and interaction with livestock/wildlife. Participants are responsible for their own safety, fitness assessment, equipment, and decisions. The organiser does not accept any liability for accidents, injuries, losses, or incidents that may occur during the event. The group provides route guidance and social coordination 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:
Dogs: 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 approved, you're free to bring them on future hikes without asking again, unless permission is withdrawn due to an issue during a hike.
Children (13+): Upon prior approval from the organiser, older children and teenagers aged 13 and over may participate in hikes, subject to the following conditions:
- They must be accompanied by a parent who maintains direct and continuous supervision throughout the entire hike
- Parent/s must be established regular members of the group before bringing their child (after seeking approval from the organiser)
- Children must be physically capable of completing the event distance and terrain
- Parent/s assume complete and sole responsibility for their child's safety, conduct, behaviour, and wellbeing throughout the hike
- It is the parent/s' responsibility to assess whether the route is suitable for their child's age, ability, and fitness level
- The organiser provides no supervision, instruction, or duty of care to children; parent/s are entirely responsible for all aspects of their child's participation and any associated risks
· 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.
Insurance & Medical: Participants are strongly advised to have appropriate personal accident and public liability insurance. The organiser does not carry public liability insurance. Participants are responsible for their own first aid supplies and medications. The organiser is not medically trained and cannot provide medical assistance beyond basic first aid supplies.
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.
· Acknowledgment of Terms: By signing up for and participating in any event, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to all group guidelines and terms outlined on this page. You acknowledge that you participate entirely at your own risk and that the organiser assumes no responsibility for your safety or wellbeing.
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
16

Free Sunday Walk – Palaces, Bridges & Riverside Paths
Surbiton Station, Station Approach, Surbiton, KT6 4NS, London, GB📍 Start/End: Outside Surbiton Station
⏰ Meet: 10:15am | Leave: 10:30am sharp
🚶 Distance: ~Upto 15 kms
⚖️ Difficulty: Easy–Moderate (flat, steady pace)
🥾 Terrain: Mostly paved & riverside paths — good for winter walking
***
### Travel
Train: Surbiton is 30 minutes from Waterloo.
Car: Parking near the station (check restrictions).
***
### Overview
A scenic Sunday walk following the River Thames, passing Hampton Court Palace, historic bridges, riverside parks and peaceful towpaths.
This is a social, friendly, talking walk — ideal if you want to stretch your legs, get fresh air, unwind, and enjoy good company.
No big hills, no rushing — just a steady pace and plenty of moments to enjoy the water, swans, boats, and winter stillness.
***
### Route Highlights
- Riverside walk along the Thames Path
- Views of Hampton Court Palace from the gardens side
- Kingston Bridge and scenic riverside promenade
- Wide open spaces, cafes, historic buildings, and calm water
We will aim to finish the walk before lunch by 2 pm and have lunch and/or a drink at a local pub.
***
### What to Bring
- Comfortable walking/hiking footwear
- Water + snacks / packed lunch
- Warm layers
- Waterproof if it rains
- A smile — it’s a Sunday 😄
***
### After-Walk
We’ll finish near Surbiton Station at a pub for a warm drink/pint and/or lunch to unwind.
***
### ⚠️ Important Notes
- Please stay with or behind the hike leader. This helps to manage group pace and cohesion.
- Participation is free, but you are responsible for your own safety and well-being. No risk/liability is inferred or accepted by the organiser.
- Please be mindful of others, respect the countryside, and keep the group spirit positive.
- Read the About Us section before joining:
👉 About Us
📲 Contact:
If you’re running late, lost, or need to reach me on the day, message/WhatsApp me at 07830 374 629.102 attendees
FREE NIGHT WALK - 🌙 Will You Dare the Wintry Night Walk? 🌙 Crawley Circular !
Crawley Railway Station, Crawley Station,, Crawley, GBCrawley After Dark: Parks, Lakes & Friday Night Drinks
As the lights come on and the week winds down, join us for a Friday night adventure on foot. This atmospheric evening walk takes us through Crawley, Tillgate Park, and peaceful lakeside paths, where winter air, quiet trails, and glowing reflections create a very different kind of walking experience.
It’s a medium-paced, night walk with a touch of adventure. Expect crisp air, darkened paths, slippery paths, torchlight moments, and that unbeatable feeling of earning your Friday night pub drink at the end.
Will you dare to walk into the wintry night? 🌌 Torch is Compulsory
***
### 📍 Meeting Point
Crawley Station (RH10 1JA)
Please meet outside Crawley Station at 6:15 pm, and we will move at 6:30 pm sharp.
Crawley Station is:
- Around 10 minutes by bus from Three Bridges, or
- One stop by train from Three Bridges
This is a circular walk, finishing back at Crawley Station, where we’ll head to a nearby pub for drinks.
***
### 🚶 Walk Details
Distance: Approx. 10–12 km
Pace: Medium
Finish time: Before 9:30 pm
We’ll cover:
- Crawley town paths
- Tillgate Park
- Lakeside sections
- A mix of park trails, urban paths, and some road crossings
There may be small inclines, but nothing extreme.
***
### 🍻 After-Walk Friday Night Drinks
We’ll finish close to the station and head to a local pub for a well-earned drink and a relaxed Friday wind-down. Totally optional — but highly recommended 😉
***
### 🎒 What to Bring
Good walking shoes (essential)
Weather-appropriate clothing (it will be cold)
Compulsory - Torch or headlamp 🔦
At least 1 litre of water
Snacks if needed
Cash or card for post-walk drinks
Positive energy and good spirit
***
### ⚠️ Important Safety & Group Notes
Please stay with or behind the walk leader at all times to:
- Maintain group pace
- Keep everyone together
- Allow those at the back to catch up
Participation is completely free, but you are responsible for your own safety and well-being. This is a voluntary social activity; no service, risk, or liability is accepted.
Please ensure your actions do not cause harm to:
- Other participants
- Animals
- The environment
Respect fellow walkers at all times and help maintain a friendly, inclusive group atmosphere.
***
### ℹ️ Before You Join
Please read the About Us section before signing up:
👉 https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities
📲 Contact on the day:
If you’re running late, lost, or have any issues, message or WhatsApp me on: 07830 374 6297 attendees
FREE HIKE – Windmills to the Devil's Dyke: Big-Sky Ridges above Hassocks
Hassocks Station, Hassocks, BN6 8JF, GBMeet: Hassocks Station (BN6 8JD) – outside the main entrance
Time: Meet 10:15 AM → depart 10:30 AM sharp
Finish: Back at Hassocks Station
***
## Overview
A classic South Downs day out: we’ll climb from Hassocks to the Jack & Jill Windmills, stride the South Downs Way along chalky ridgelines, drop into the natural amphitheatre of Devil’s Dyke, then loop back on quiet field paths and byways. Expect huge horizons, rolling chalk downland, a couple of honest climbs, and plenty of “wow” moments.
## Route at a glance
- Distance: ~13–16 miles
- Ascent: Elevation up to 550m, Rolling downs, a few short, steep pulls and some nice hills
- Pace: Medium / medium-fast (with regroup stops—no one left behind)
- Terrain: Chalk tracks, grass paths, farm lanes (can be muddy if wet)
Highlights
- Jack & Jill Windmills (Clayton) – iconic Sussex skyline
- South Downs Way – airy ridge walking and sea-to-Weald views
- Devil’s Dyke – dramatic dry valley with big amphitheatre vibes
- Hidden coombes, skylarks (in season), and classic downland scenery
> Lunch: Near Devil’s Dyke (bring your own).
***
## Getting there
Train: Hassocks is on the Brighton main line (London Victoria / London Bridge / Blackfriars → Hassocks).
Parking: Station car park & nearby streets (check local restrictions).
***
## What to bring
- Sturdy hiking boots (chalk + mud = slippery)
- Layers + waterproof, hat/gloves in cooler months
- 1–2 L water, packed lunch & snacks
- Headtorch/torch (short daylight outside summer)
- A positive, considerate attitude—we keep a steady group rhythm
***
## Group guidelines
- Stay with or behind the hike leader so we keep the group together.
- I give regular catch-ups (especially after hills).
- This is a voluntary group activity—you’re responsible for your own safety and belongings. Be kind to people, animals, and the environment.
- RSVP etiquette: keep your status updated; repeated no-shows/late cancellations may affect future attendance.
Please read: About page before joining:
https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities
***
## Contact on the day
If you’re late or lost, WhatsApp only (no calls while leading): 07830 374 629 (Amit).
See you on the chalk for wide skies, windmills, and Dyke-side drama! 🌬️🥾64 attendees
FREE HIKE - Dorking to Leith Hill Circular - Conquer Surrey's Highest Point
Dorking Railway Station, Station Approach, Surrey, RH4 1TF, Dorkin g, GB📍 Start/End: Outside Dorking Station
⏰ Time: Meet at 10:15 am and leave at 10:30 am sharp
🚶♂️ Distance: Approx. 13–15 miles
⛰️ Difficulty: Intermediate — steady pace and fabulously hilly
🥾 Terrain: Woodland trails, farmland paths, some muddy spots (seasonal)
Train: Direct trains run from London Victoria and London Waterloo to Dorking.
Car: Parking available near/around the station (check for local restrictions).
***
### Overview
We’ll be heading out from Dorking Station for a beautiful circular route through woodland, quiet valleys and open countryside — leading us up to Leith Hill, the highest point in Surrey.
At the summit, we’ll stop at Leith Hill Tower, where (weather allowing) you can enjoy wide-ranging views across the South Downs and even as far as London in the distance.
This route offers a variety of scenery:
- Peaceful forest trails through the Greensand Way
- Rolling hills and open viewpoints
- A steady climb to the tower (nothing extreme, but you’ll feel it!)
- And gentle downhill paths back to Dorking
***
### Plan & Notes
Lunch:
We’ll stop near Leith Hill Tower.
Pace:
We keep a consistent walking pace, with brief catch-up stops after hills.
If you need long breaks, this may not be the right event.
Weather & Mud:
It’s that time of year — expect mud.
Wear proper hiking boots (not trainers).
***
### What to Bring
- Hiking boots (strongly recommended)
- Water (at least 1L)
- Packed lunch & snacks
- Layers/waterproofs
- A torch! (Very important during shorter days)
***
## Group guidelines
- Stay with or behind the hike leader so we keep the group together.
- I give regular catch-ups (especially after hills).
- This is a voluntary group activity—you’re responsible for your own safety and belongings. Be kind to people, animals, and the environment.
- RSVP etiquette: keep your status updated; repeated no-shows/late cancellations may affect future attendance.
Please read: About page before joining:
https://www.meetup.com/free-hiking-outdoor-fitness-and-social-activities
### After-Hike
We’ll finish back in Dorking and go to a nearby pub for a warm drink or cold pint and unwind — always a good end to the day.
***
## Contact on the day
If you’re late or lost, WhatsApp/message only (sorry, I do not take calls while leading and navigating): 07830 374 629 (Amit).58 attendees
Past events
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