Walkfest ’25
Information for participants
Health and safety, and your responsibilities
Quick check
• Choose the walk or event that is within your capabilities
• Check the ‘What to Bring’ section of the walk description to make sure you bring all you need with you on the day
• Act responsibly and abide by the Outdoor Access Code
What walk is right for me?
Short
Short walks are between 30 minutes and two hours. These are often gently-paced walks covering routes that are flat, use pavements and good paths and are suitable for most abilities.
Medium
Medium walks are between two and three hours to complete, or roughly half a day. These walks often take in some of the path network through the East Lothian countryside, therefore conditions underfoot may be varied and include some slopes and steps.
Long
These ‘all-day’ walks are often through more wild parts of East Lothian, and will require participants to have a reasonable level of fitness.
The walk hosts and leaders are experienced but they must take your word that you are sufficiently fit for the grade of walk you have chosen. If you are in any doubt as to your capabilities, especially if you are trying a new or more challenging activity, it may be advisable to seek medical advice prior to booking.
What should I bring?
Each walk has its own ‘what to bring’ section – please read carefully. In general, you should make sure you have appropriate footwear, waterproofs and water to drink, but you may also be advised to bring sunscreen and insect repellent, snacks and/or lunch. Please bring your own first aid kit.
What are everyone’s responsibilities?
Before departure, the host or leader will explain the walk and advise on any particularly difficult stages. You must make known to the host or leader any medical conditions or special circumstances which may affect your ability to complete the course.
If the weather conditions become extreme, the walk may be amended or curtailed at the leaders’ discretion.
Every effort will be made to ensure no walker is left trailing behind, the pace being set at that of the slowest individual. Nevertheless, we do expect walkers to be reasonably confident that they can walk the specified distance before setting out on a walk.
Participants or their guardians must take responsibility for ensuring:
1. That the activity offered suits their needs, expectations and capabilities.
2. That walkers’ actions conform to any safety guidance given by the leader during the walk.
3. That any distress or concern during, or resulting from, the activity is drawn to the immediate attention of the leader in charge.
4. That they are aware of the recognised risks and hazards associated with the activity and prepared to accept them.
5. That the equipment and clothing used is suitable for the activity and worn as directed.
Please follow the Scottish Outdoor Access Code
Everyone has the right to be on most land and water in Scotland if they act responsibly. The key points to remember are:
1. Take responsibility for your own actions and for those you may be caring for, for example children.
2. Respect the interests of other people.
3. Care for the environment.
Go to www.outdooraccess-scotland.scot to find out more.
Liability
Please note that by taking part in a walk or event booked through the East Lothian Walking Festival, participants understand and accept that all outdoor activities come with risk and agree to be responsible for their own safety and that of others in their care. Any accident or injury that occurs as a result of taking part in the East Lothian Walking Festival is therefore not the organisers’ liability. For more information, please contact walks@walkfest.org.uk