Join the Burnley Ramblers – and let’s get walking!

Why Become a Member of Burnley Rambling Group?

There are many reasons why people choose to join Burnley Rambling Group (BRG). The group provides a friendly, inclusive platform that helps people achieve a variety of personal goals and life needs.

For some, it’s simply about social interaction — a chance to connect with others, particularly following retirement or bereavement, but in a way that feels comfortable and within their control. Conversation while walking is never compulsory, but it can often become quite engaging!

Others join for the simple pleasure of being outdoors, enjoying the fresh air, stunning views, and the changing sights and sounds of the countryside.

Some members are looking for a gentle way to get fitter or even lose weight. Walking can give a natural high much like running does, especially for those new to regular outdoor activity.

Many people feel a need to belong to a community, and BRG provides the perfect opportunity to make new friends — often lifelong ones. It’s not unheard of for a little romance to blossom along the way (though we wouldn’t suggest that as your only motivation!).

For others, the draw is adventure — discovering new places and experiences. Joining the group opens your eyes to the beauty of the local landscape and introduces you to paths, landmarks, and hidden corners you may never have known existed.

Whatever your reason for joining, you’ll meet new people, explore new places, and gain a fresh perspective on life.

Health and Wellbeing

Walking is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve and maintain fitness — and it’s also one of the least stressful forms of exercise. Many members join BRG to boost their physical health, and it’s common to see confidence and stamina build quickly within just a few months.

We know that one person’s “hill” can be another person’s “mountain”, and our walk leaders always take this into account. Whether you’re a “tortoise” or a “hare”, everyone reaches the end together.

But walking isn’t just good for the body — it’s also a wonderful tonic for the mind. We’re fortunate to have magnificent countryside on our doorstep here in East Lancashire, and further afield in Yorkshire and beyond. The joy of long-distance views, the scent of wildflowers, the tranquillity of woodland paths, and the exhilaration of reaching a hilltop all contribute to improved mental wellbeing.

There’s also the simple pleasure of observing nature and the farming year unfold — from the sight of lambs taking their first steps in spring to watching the seasons change around us.

Community and Friendship

BRG is, above all, a community — a diverse mix of people from different walks of life and backgrounds. While many members are retired, others still work part-time or bring along younger family members during school holidays.

Walks often spark lively conversation, shared experiences, and meaningful friendships. Beyond walking, BRG hosts a variety of social events throughout the year, including:

• A lively disco night

• An annual coach trip with a choice of walks and a group meal

• A popular Christmas dinner and dance, often sold out well in advance

Members frequently celebrate major birthdays or milestones with post-walk gatherings, often in a church hall or at a member’s home. While social participation is always optional, everyone is warmly welcomed.

Many members also belong to other walking groups, bringing fresh experiences, new routes, and extended friendships to BRG.

Adventure and Discovery

For some, joining BRG is all about exploration — discovering the countryside that surrounds us.

Ever driven along the M65 and looked up at Darwen Tower, wondering what it’s like up there? Or passed through Todmorden towards Hebden Bridge and spotted Stoodley Pike, curious about the view from its balcony? As a BRG member, you’ll soon find out!

Even Pendle Hill, visible to most of us in East Lancashire, remains a mystery to many locals who’ve never climbed it. Joining the group is the perfect way to uncover these local gems — and to finally find out where that footpath you’ve often driven past actually leads.

Our walks aren’t just about tackling hills; many are gentle routes with minimal ascent, offering new perspectives and fresh air without the strain. Even long-standing members are sometimes surprised to find themselves on paths they’ve never explored before — proof that there’s always something new to discover.

In Summary

Whatever brings you to Burnley Rambling Group — fitness, friendship, community, or adventure — you’ll find it here.

You’ll explore beautiful countryside, meet like-minded people, and enjoy the physical and mental rewards of walking in good company.

So why not take that first step? Join BRG today — and start your next adventure on foot.