Planning your walk
Make sure you have appropriate maps and
information about the walk you are planning.
Make a good estimate of how long the walk is likely to take you.
Most people average 2 miles (3 kilometres) an hour - steep slopes
and rough ground can make the going much slower.
Remember to allow time for rests, refreshment breaks and simply
savouring the views.If you are not used to walking, start with a
short walk of 1.5 - 2 miles (2-3 km).
Check the weather forecast for the day. Wear loosefitting,
comfortable and bright clothing appropriate for the season and road
walking. Select strong, comfortable shoes with a good gripping sole
or walking boots.
Sun cream is always advisable, but particularly during the
spring and summer.
Drink plenty of water and take snacks with you. Carry a mobile
phone and let someone else know where you are going and when you
expect to return. If your walk takes you along roads, or across
roads, please take care and follow the Highway Code.
The Countryside Code
Respect - Protect - Enjoy
If you follow the Countryside Code wherever you go, you will
enjoy walking in Kent and help protect the countryside now and for
future generations.
Be safe, plan ahead and follow any signs. Leave gates and
property as you find them. Protect plants and animals, and take
your litter home. Keep dogs under close control. Consider other
people.
Find out more about the Countryside Code.
Signage on Public Rights of Way
Where footpaths, bridleways or byways join a road, a right of
way sign will indicate the route to follow. Additionally, to help
people follow a route, waymarkers are installed along a right of
way.
These are usually coloured arrows fixed or painted onto stiles
and gateposts.
Checklist
To help you plan for your walk, we have put together a helpful
list of points to consider.
The equipment or steps you will need will depend on the walk and
the time of year... you might not need a survival bag for a summer
walk around a country park! Use common sense, and let us know if
you have any other top tips:
- Try to wear bright clothing or reflective arm, leg or bag bands
as these make it easier to be seen by drivers when the light is
poor
- Check the weather forecast before setting out
- Anyone heading for a challenging or long distance walk, should
be properly equipped and ready to cope with changing ground and
weather conditions
- Always take a map and compass and know how to use them
- Leave clear details of your intended route and estimated time
of return - Tell a family member or friend when you expect to be
back from your walk and where the route will be going
- Choose a walk suitable for your abilities which can be changed
if the weather worsens
- Don't be over ambitious - allow one hour for every 2.5 miles
(4km) and add one hour for every 1,500 ft (500m) of ascent, with
extra time for stops for rest and food
- Know basic first aid and how to call for help in an
emergency.
And in the winter:
- Extra warm clothing is essential. Multiple layers are better
than extra thick ones so you can take them off individually if you
get hot from walking
- Know and plan for the number of daylight hours
- Avoid gullies after fresh snow
- Never walk on frozen ponds or lakes no matter how thick the ice
may look.
Equipment checklist
- Comfortable clothing/layers
- Waterproof/windproof outer jacket
- Boots with good sole pattern - trainers aren't suitable as they
can slip and don't support your ankle
- Hat and gloves
- Don't forget thermal socks, as feet can get particularly
cold
- Spare warm clothing
- Food and water and a warm drink
- Some extra energy-giving food and emergency rations
- Large polybag or survival bag
- Whistle and torch
- First aid kit
- Map and compass
- Fully charged mobile phone if you have one
- Take some cash, including coins. You may have no mobile phone
reception and may want to use a payphone. Likewise, buying a cup of
tea or other supplies in a shop may be impossible if they don't
take credit cards.
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