General Information

Find out more about what we do

About Aberdeen Ramblers

Aberdeen Ramblers operates within Grampian Area of Ramblers Scotland. The Group, formed in 1982, was established to promote walking and protect the countryside in the North East of Scotland. This it has done successfully with well attended walks to popular locations both locally and further afield. Ramblers Scotland is part of Britain’s walking charity, the Ramblers, with a long tradition of working for all who enjoy walking. It is a charity with a goal to protect the ability of people to enjoy the sense of freedom and the benefits that come from being outdoors on foot. We work to protect the countryside and have a long tradition of campaigning to protect the natural beauty of Scotland as there are many areas which are threatened. We have helped secure rights of access which are amongst the best in the world and are helping to improve path networks, especially in the lowlands. Strong partnerships have been forged with other organisations to ensure we can continue to make Britain a better place for walkers.

Booking Information

For information on booking your place on a walk please click here

Distance and Gradings

Gradings are used to give an indication of the severity of the walk the gradings used are shown below, mileages are approximate.

SA+ Severe - arduous walks for the experienced and very fit, involving all of these factors: on high ground with exposure, steep ascents and descents, at a brisk pace, distances over 15 miles. Standard grading for hill walking in winter conditions.
SA- Strenuous - for the fit, involving some or all of these factors: on high or rough ground, with steep ascents and descents, at a brisk pace, distances over 15 miles.
SB+ Between moderate and strenuous - for the reasonably fit. Standard grading for summits taken at a slower pace in summer conditions.
SB- Moderate - demanding a higher standards of fitness and stamina than SC+.
SC+ Easy to moderate - for those with improving fitness, offering some modest challenges.
SC- Easy - mainly on level ground and often on paths or tracks. Suitable for beginners.

Equipment and safety

Stout boots are required for SA and SB grade walks. In addition you should always carry a rucksack with waterproofs, spare clothing, food and non- alcoholic drink.
New members are not to attempt walks out with their capability. If in doubt contact the leader who will be happy to advise you.
All sporting and leisure activities have inherent hazards associated with them and rambling is no exception. In spite of the safety of members always being the paramount concern, accidents will occasionally occur. It is important, therefore, that when entering into the activity, each member appreciates that they have a responsibility to identify the hazards associated with the activity and take all reasonable steps to eliminate or minimise the potential for an accident to occur.

Clothing and first aid

You are advised to be prepared for all kinds of weather conditions regardless of the season. It is recommended that you have a change of clothing with you, which can be left on the coach. Also, as a precaution, it is considered advisable to carry your own personal first aid kit with basic items such as plasters for cuts and minor injuries.

Leader

The safety of the party depends on adhering to the leader's instructions. The average speed of the walk is that of the slowest person. So, in fairness to the group, it is important that you are capable of that grade of walk. All walkers should remain with the group unless a specific arrangement has been made with the leader. Regular stops are made to allow the party to regroup.

The Leader is responsible for the following:

Weather conditions

The Leader may cancel or alter a walk if adverse weather conditions render the programmed walk hazardous or otherwise unsuitable.

Maps and grid references

The maps and grid references referred to in the programme are the OS Landranger 1:50000 series. These are widely available if you wish to follow the walk route in more detail or lead a walk.

Dogs

It is regretted that dogs are not permitted on any of our walks.