FFW: Bank Holiday Monday Hike - Burton Dassett Loop (VERY hilly, 8-miles)

I was super-chuffed to be able to bring this old favourite hiking route back in February after a 2-year absence, and because several people told me they were gutted that they couldn't make the February date - I've booked it in again as our special May Bank Holiday Monday route.

It should be noted (as per the title) that this route is VERY hilly and tough on the legs. So if you don't like hills or don't consider yourself an advanced hiker capable of keeping up with the pack - you should certainly stay at home.
There is also uneven terrain underfoot for several sections of the route, so it's very important that you wear some sturdy hiking footwear that protects you from injury. I make no exaggerations or exceptions with this warning, so if you want to attend this event but don't own any proper hiking boots (that cover your ankles) - buy some or stay at home.

This amazing hike will take us around a breathtakingly scenic and undulating walking route starting in the village of North End, and moving through the much-loved Burton Dassett and Holly Well, looping back to finish where we started. The dreamy remote and peaceful setting together with the outstanding views and scenery make this a superb route from start to finish.

If you're a keen and able walker/trekker (whether you're a first-timer to the group or not) then this walk is for you. Maybe you've smashed a Friendly Faces hike or two already, or maybe you've heard good things about the ones we've done and you want to get involved in these fantastic social occasions... step up and add this one to your list of accomplishments for 2026.
At this event you'll have a fantastic outdoorsy afternoon out, you'll meet a warm group of super-social Friendly Faces (including first-timers as always) and you'll be amazed at how easy it is to make new acquaintances / connections along the way.

When we're done, right next to the parking spot is the just-recently-opened (and very stylish) Lost Pug pub where we will grab a well earned sit down, drink, and last chinwag before setting off home.

Note: There are several farmers fields that we pass through along the route containing cattle, so while well-behaved dogs are welcome - it goes without saying that they must be kept on a lead at all times.
Also bear in mind that dogs will need lifting over some (but not all) of the stiles, so large dogs may be a struggle.

If you are fit and able, this event is not one you'll want to miss or to hear about from others, so hit that big 'Attend' button now to be kept informed.

Getting there...
If you are a driver, you will certainly attain hero/heroine status if you write a message here on the event page offering your services - stating your location and specific locations that you can collect passengers from.
If you are not a driver and would like a lift, leave a message here on the event page (as soon as you sign up) asking if anyone is kind enough to offer. Leaving that question until the day before the event is certainly too late.
Don't forget to offer a few pounds to your driver as petrol prices are high at the moment.
If you need a lift (or are a driver offering lifts) : consider how appealing your meetup profile photo is. It may seem harsh, but the reality is that if you do not have a warm friendly smile or part/all of your face is hidden, then it is less likely that someone is going to want to either give you a lift or accept a lift from you.
Travel planning info for drivers :
The meet-point is x miles away from...
Warwick 15; Leamington 15; Kenilworth 22; Coventry 27; Rugby 28; Central Birmingham 38.

Where will we start?...
Use the map link below to find the meet point which is on Top Street, where there is free parking on the roadside. Please be respectful of others when parking, and where possible leave space so that others can park in-front of or behind you.

EVENT SUMMARY / IMPORTANT POINTS:
1. Your first Friendly Faces event is free. This is to give you a feel for who we are and how we do things. After that if you wish to return for another one, becoming an official subscribing group-member is necessary, so read the details here...
https://www.meetup.com/friendlyfaces/events/305407432/

2. This event starts at 1pm. Do not be late! Make sure you arrive early enough to be parked, hiking boots/gear on, and ready at the start point for this time or we may leave without you.

3. To attend this hiking event you must be active, in good health, and free from injury. If you are not all of these things - please remove yourself from the attendees list.

4. Dogs ARE allowed 🐶✔️ to attend this event, but must be kept on a lead at all times - No exceptions.

5. As is always strongly advised : bring (or invest in) some good quality ankle-protecting (and water-proof) hiking boots. Trainers are not recommended for any Friendly Faces hikes. If you chose to ignore this warning then you do so at your own risk.