The Ramblers

A path maintenance team from The Ramblers.

A notice from the South Wilts Ramblers indicating they have helped erect a stile

The Ramblers, formerly known as The Ramblers' Association, is a charity and walking organisation in the United Kingdom, dedicated to protecting and expanding the places people love to walk and promoting walking for health and pleasure. It is a membership-based organisation with a history dating back to 1935, when it was founded as part of a mass trespass movement aimed at securing public access to the countryside. Today, The Ramblers operates throughout England, Scotland, and Wales, advocating for walkers' rights, maintaining and improving the public footpath network, and encouraging outdoor activities.

History

The origins of The Ramblers can be traced back to the early 20th century, with the pivotal event being the 1932 Mass Trespass of Kinder Scout. This act of civil disobedience was aimed at highlighting the lack of public access to areas of the English countryside, which were then predominantly owned by private landlords. The success of this and similar campaigns led to the formation of The Ramblers' Association in 1935. Over the decades, The Ramblers played a key role in campaigning for legislation to improve public access to the countryside, including the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 and the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 in England and Wales, and the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 in Scotland.

Activities

The Ramblers' activities are diverse and cater to a wide range of interests and abilities. These include:

• Organising group walks: Local groups across the UK organise regular walks, ranging from short, accessible routes to longer, more challenging hikes.
• Path maintenance: Volunteers work to keep footpaths open and accessible, often in partnership with local authorities.
• Campaigning: The Ramblers campaign on issues affecting walkers, including protecting the natural environment, improving access to the countryside, and promoting the health benefits of walking.
• Walking festivals and events: The organisation hosts and supports walking festivals and events to encourage people to get outdoors and enjoy walking.

Membership

Membership to The Ramblers offers a variety of benefits, including access to thousands of group walks each year, a subscription to the organisation's magazine, and discounts on walking gear and maps. Members also have the opportunity to volunteer and take part in campaigning work to protect and expand walking routes across the UK.

Impact

The Ramblers has had a significant impact on walking and access rights in the UK. Its campaigning efforts have contributed to the establishment of national trails and long-distance routes, as well as the implementation of legislation that secures the right to roam in certain areas. The organisation's work in maintaining paths ensures that the countryside remains accessible for everyone to enjoy.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite its successes, The Ramblers faces ongoing challenges, including changes in land use, the need for continuous maintenance of the footpath network, and ensuring that the countryside remains accessible and enjoyable for future generations. The organisation continues to adapt its strategies to meet these challenges, with a focus on promoting diversity and inclusion within the walking community and addressing the environmental impact of outdoor activities.