Skills for the Hills!

East Lothian Walking Festival in partnership with Venturing Out CIC is offering you the chance to join a day of learning expedition skills that will equip you with the knowledge that you need for safe and confident low level journeying.

Think ‘DofE for adults’ and you will get a picture of what this day will give you

Took part in DofE many moons ago? Always wish you’d had a DofE experience? Well, while we can’t offer a full weekend expedition, we will take to the hills to look at:

– Navigation skills
– Route planning
– Expedition equipment
– Setting up camp
– Cooking on the hills
– Staying safe in the hills
– Outdoor Access Code

We will do all of this whilst journeying through the beautiful Lammermuir hills, taking in the views, and enjoying being away from it all.

The walk, including climbs, is 14km / 8.5 miles. Please note there is a short section on the roadway.

More information

Although this is an all-day event, we will not be walking flat out for the whole day – there will be lots of stops to look at navigation, camp craft etc.

Transport to and from where we will be walking in the hills has been arranged for the group.

A reasonable level of physical fitness is required for this walk.

No dogs please.

This walk is for anyone aged 14+. Ideally people under 18 should be accompanied by an adult but please contact us to discuss your requirements.

There will be no toilet facilities during the walk although public toilets are available close to the meeting point in Haddington.

There is no café at the start or during the walk although it is possible to purchase refreshments from outlets in Haddington prior to meeting.

What to bring

This is a walk over mixed terrain so we would advise wearing walking boots, sturdy shoes or trainers with a good grip.

– Water / drink
– Snacks
– Suncream
– Waterproof jacket and trousers (it is Scotland!)
– Perhaps your own basic first aid kit

Getting there

The pick up (and drop off) point for the minibus is the Haddington Corn Exchange in Court Street, Haddington. The town is well served by public transport. If you do choose to bring your car, long stay car parking is available close by. What3Words: ///copies.valve.tasty