FF: New Year Hike - Burton Dassett Loop (VERY hilly, 8-miles)

Competition for places in my top 5 favourite hikes of all time is fiercely contested, and this magnificent countryside hike is certainly up there. Its also popular with many other past attendees who keep coming back to do it again.

As a challenging first hike of 2027 this is the perfect opportunity to get out and brush off the old 2026 cobwebs, and start 2027 with a big win to set yourself up for the year for more successes.

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 short 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. 'First-timer' attendees are always welcome to come along and check out 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. Keep in mind that this group is strictly for the 30's and 40's age-range (minimum 25, maximum 55). If you're inside that range then read the joining details here... https://friendlyfaces.events/update

2. Please be aware of the start time of this event, and do not be late. Make sure you arrive early enough to get parked, and be ready at the start point for this time or we will leave without you. In the past, several people have discovered how unpleasant it is to arrive at a meet-point and find it deserted, only to have to turn around and drive home again. Plan your journey beforehand and check for traffic/roadworks on the day.

3. To attend this hiking event you must be physically active, hike-fit, injury-free, have no underlying health conditions, and have experience of covering this distance in one go. If you are not all of these things - please remove yourself from the attendees list. If you are unsure, please read the section entitled "Qualifying to Attend" in our Code of Conduct here... https://friendlyfaces.events/codeofconduct

4. Dogs are NOT allowed 🐶❌ to attend this event. This is due to close proximity with farm animals and public pathways taking us through farmers land.

5. This is a hiking event, and all attendees are expected to wear proper hiking footwear. No matter how confident/familiar you feel about walking in the countryside - due to the uneven terrain on this route, ankle-protecting waterproof footwear is compulsory.
If you do not currently own any - please invest in a pair in advance. The many Mountain Warehouse stores offer an excellent selection, so there is no excuse to not be equipped for this event.
Trainers may not protect you from a nasty injury - which could bring an unpopular end to the event for everyone.
(* 2026 UPDATE *) To ensure that all attendees sensibly follow this request respectfully of everyone else : Anyone who injures themselves and is not wearing ankle-protecting hiking footwear will be removed from the group.