FOUNDED in 1949 and is still going strong today, Warrington HF Rambling Club is celebrating 75 years this year.
Many things have changed since its inauguration; however, they are still a very friendly club passionate about providing interesting walks for their members. They now email members walk details instead of using hand written paper copies and travel by car rather than public transport but the original ethos remains.
With over 90 walks per year, they offer a variety to tempt all levels of walker, from summer evening rambles of just 4 or 5 miles, through to higher grade demanding hikes of 12 miles of more and possibly several thousand feet of ascent. The club also provide Wednesday walks as well as weekends.
One other difference is that the group frequently enjoy a drink in a pub at the end of walk since they are not tied to train times.
As well as local areas, they travel to the Lakes, North Wales, Derbyshire, Shropshire, Lancashire and West Yorkshire for day walks and further afield for their two weekends away per year. This year the club enjoyed Spring in Barmouth and are looking forward to Autumn in Melrose.
Over the years they have even ventured on club weeks away to various walking locations abroad, including Spain, Bulgaria, France, and Cyprus. This year the group are heading back to Italy; not to Tuscany again but to the Dolomites which offers superb trails.
As a friendly club, they like to enjoy each other’s company and an integral part of this is their social events. Not obligatory if it is just walking that appeals, however, the Spring and Autumn Suppers (held in a local pub) prove popular, as does the annual party with a live band. During the Autumn and Winter, when they are unable to walk in the evenings, the group aim to offer a chance to get together once a month. Past events have included a bowling evening, talks on various topics and even an evening of magic.
Finally, members are always keen to share a ‘different’ experience. These have included; a steam train plus ramble, and afternoon tea on a canal boat. Shortly, the group will be exploring the Copper Mines at Alderley Edge.
On September 28th this year, they are planning a party with a live group and a hot buffet to celebrate our 75th Anniversary at St Joseph’s in Penketh. Let the group know if you were once a regular member of the club and would like to attend since they want to welcome past members.
Secretary Cathy Carter said: “I am delighted to say the Club has gone from strength to strength over the years and I am sure it will celebrate its centennial anniversary when the time comes.”
For any enquiries regarding the Club, or to join them please email [email protected] or visit the website https://warringtonhfwalkingclub.com/
