You may be wondering.....

Q. As well as circular walks, do you conduct “Inn to Inn” walks?
A. Yes - I call them Linear Walks. These are long distance walks of up to 100 miles or more, depending on the number of days on the tour. The route is broken up into daily sections of 8-10 miles. We complete the walk in stages, walking every day. A participant must be in good physical shape. Age is not as much a factor as is fitness. Circular walks begin and end in the same village, and average 5 miles. Low Impact walks are always shorter, include fewer hills and avoid rough or challenging paths.

Q. What is the average size and age of the group?
A. The group size is limited to 8. I believe that your overall enjoyment will be greater with a small group because intimacy develops; and of course we are able to stay in tiny villages off the beaten path, which we certainly could not do as a large party travelling in a motorcoach. On the linear walks most are in their 40s, 50s and 60s. The record for a linear walk is held by a Boulder, Colorado couple - both fit octagenarians! The circular walks attract people of all ages, and of course the Low Impact circular tours are likely to be for those who want less challenging walks. Having said this, I feel strongly that general fitness is a better guide to ability than biological age, and if you are in doubt, talk to me.

Q. My husband and I like travelling together. I love to walk and he enjoys museums and sightseeing. Would there be enough variety to satisfy him while I take all the walks?
A. The circular walks would work very well, since our walks begin in a village and always return to the starting point. He and anyone who did not feel like walking that day could find plenty to interest them until we return from the walk.

Q. I belong to a hiking club. Is it possible to reserve a trip exclusively for my group, and will the same price apply?
A. Yes, you can reserve a trip, and I am able to offer a group rate when your group has at least 6 members.

Q. What kind of accommodation is provided on the tours?
A. We almost always stay in Bed and Breakfast homes, and occasionally in small family operated guest houses or small country hotels.

Q. Where do we eat?
A. All of my clients have been pleasantly surprised at the variety and quality (not to mention quantity) of the food served in pubs. Invariably our evening meals are taken at pubs - a different one each night. I always say “so many pubs, so few days!” Occasionally lunches are eaten at pubs if the weather is damp or cool, and when possible, we enjoy picnics. Of course full English breakfasts are always provided by our hosts.

Q. How will we transport luggage?
A. The mini-bus will transport luggage for the group, so it is advisable to pack light. While we walk, belongings may be left in the locked vehicle and at the Bed and Breakfast.

Q. I have only 2 weeks vacation a year. Could I take a partial tour?
A. Yes. I am sure that could be arranged, and the cost adjusted accordingly. This year I am offering new 8 day tours with optional extensions.

Q. I am a widow. Do you cater for single travellers?
A. Yes. You may choose single rooms throughout (a small supplement is charged by most B&Bs and hotels), or you may share with another compatible single traveller in twin rooms.

Q. I am 74 and I walk for pleasure and good health. Am I too old for your trips?
A. I have received several requests for tours geared to healthy, older adults, so I have adapted all of the circular walks just for active seniors, and those wanting low impact walks with fewer hills. The walks are chosen for their lower level of difficulty. If requested, special dietary needs will be catered for.

Q. What do I need to do, and what do I bring?
A. Send your deposit to reserve your place(s). It is advisable to book early since the groups are limited to 8 people and they can fill quickly. You may email or phone to reserve your place, and I will hold it for you for a week until your reservation reaches me in the post. Obtain your passport if necessary. Buy or break in your walking shoes. You will receive several packets of detailed information, including clothing suggestions, after you register.

Q. What kind of weather can I expect?
A. Unpredictable! The suggested packing list includes raingear! I know that the sun shines most of the time on the Mediterranean, but I can't make that promise for the UK or Ireland. If you assume it will rain a little every day, you'll be prepared.

Q. How do I get ready physically?
A. Walk - preferably every day. There will be some hills, particularly on the linear walks where the ascents and descents can be steep. Hills on the circular walks are more gentle. Trails will be grassy and/or gravel and some may be muddy. We cross farmland and walk through woods. Climbing over stiles is unavoidable, but stepping stools are built in. Remember this is sea level - no high altitudes to deal with. I use a stair stepper to strengthen quadriceps in addition to a daily walk. Previous clients have told me that walking in the countryside was better preparation than walking on city streets.

Q. Does the trip price include airfare?
A. No. I will tell you which airport to arrive at and the time by which you should plan to land. You can wait as long as you wish to purchase your flight, use a consolidator, or your air miles. You should advise your travel agent that you must arrive at or before the recommended time - at the named airport. The airport could be Gatwick, Heathrow, Manchester, Belfast, Shannon, Dublin or Glasgow depending upon the tour you have chosen. Of course if you prefer, you may make arrangements to arrive the day before, and then meet up with the group as they arrive, or you could make your own way to the first village on our itinerary.

Q. What are the ‘City Extensions’ which are offered prior to the walking tours?
A. London, York, Edinburgh, Belfast and Dublin are the cities which are the focus of the 3 day extensions. Tours in the south of England are typically linked with a London Extension, and Scottish tours are linked with Edinburgh etc. When you have registered for a tour, you will receive more detailed information about the city extension and you can make a decision then.