Hiking / Trekking

Hiking / Trekking

What is it? 

Hiking and Trekking are often used as interchangeable terms, but there are some differences in the activities. A trek is often a longer journey than a hike, and usually takes place across areas with no other means of transport. Hiking is a more recreational pastime than trekking, as people go on hikes to enjoy the environment; the purpose of a trek is to reach a destination. 

What does it involve?

Although the definitions are different, hiking and trekking are reasonably similar practices. Both involve long distance walking in areas with no towns or roads by navigating a path through the environment or following an established trail. 

Why do it and what are the benefits?

Getting out and about in the world is always beneficial, even if it's just for the fresh air! Nature is important to appreciate, and spending time walking through the environment can help you to better understand how the world works when you remove the majority of human influence.

What equipment do we need?

Appropriate attire is vital when hiking or trekking; for example, wearing the wrong kind of shoes can result in painful blisters. Camping gear may also be required if it's a particularly long journey you are undertaking, and make sure to take food and water with you if it's not going to be available on route!

Who is it suitable for?

Particularly young groups of children won't be suitable for taking on long walks, but they may enjoy something like a shorter walk around the grounds of a castle!

Costs?

Going hiking or trekking can be completely free, as it doesn't have to involve any establishments outside your own. However, you can hire guides to lead your group on a walk, and sometimes the area you wish to walk in may be a national park and could have an entry fee. 

Issues/Things to think about? (unsuitable for age groups, medical conditions etc)

Younger groups will need careful supervision when out and about in the world, they could easily wander off!

How do we include?

The inclusion of everybody in your student group will depend on the kind of terrain you are covering, and the distance involved. Be aware of the specific needs of your group when planning your route - uneven/steep ground won't be suitable for those with physical difficulties. 

Doing it abroad?

The foreign landscapes and natural environments are often more varied and interesting than our own, and could make for a great hike or trek. Make sure to plan your route out properly and be aware of safety advice beforehand - you don't want to get lost/stuck with no way out and no means of calling for help!

Main website:

http://www.walkingandhiking.co.uk

http://www.trekkingbritain.com

Venues with this Activity

Box Hill, North Downs

Juniper Hall is an amazing location for fieldwork, set in a quiet wooded valley in an unspoilt area of the chalk North Downs at the edge of Box Hill (less than 10 minutes from the M25). 

Explore Constable Country

Flatford lies in the heart of the beautiful Dedham Vale.

South Devon Coast

The Centre is located on the Start Bay coast and surrounded by Slapton Ley National Nature Reserve. The Ley is the largest natural freshwater lake in the South West. It is separated from the sea by Slapton Sands (a barrier beach and shingle ridge). The surrounding coastline, nearby coastal towns and Dartmoor National Park provide unrivalled opportunities for field courses.

In addition to our two residential centres in Cumbria, FSC has a dedicated team of teaching staff who deliver full or half day courses for schools using the stunning locations found within the Lake District. A typical day begins at 10.00am when one of our teaching staff will meet you at your chosen site.

In the Heart of Ancient Woodland

Epping Forest Field Centre is a purpose-built non residential centre located in a terrific Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and Special Area of Conservation that provides excellent learning opportunities.  It has excellent transport links and is only a few kilometres from the M25 and M11 and from Loughton Station (Central Line for London Undergro

Nurture in Nature

FSC Bishops Wood is an excellent base for primary school trips. At Bishops Wood Field Centre we offer opportunities in both fieldwork and adventurous activities for primary school children. From Literacy through landscape to wilderness bushcraft designed to encourage problem solving and teamwork.

Occurring on 6th July 1685, the Battle of Sedgemoor lasted barely 5 hours yet it had far-reaching consequences. Why did it occur, who was involved, what happened afterwards? The answers to these and other questions are provided through a series of displays and an interactive kiosk that shows a short film of a Battle re-enactment performed by the Sealed Knot. 

Experience learning in the great outdoors with Magdalen. Magdalen Farm with its diverse landscape, animals and purpose-built residential centre provides a safe and secure environment to learn about organic farming, sustainability and nature.

Outdoor Activities & Outdoor Training throughout Derbyshire & Yorkshire

As an alternative education provider we deliver vocational programmes and courses at all levels.

We use learning outside of the classroom to help achieve successful outcomes. We have a range of programmes that are focused on qualifications as well as courses aimed at personal development and re-engagement. All of these courses prove popular with secondary schools across the region.

Two discrete centres within 26 acres of private woodland, surrounded by 200 acres of public woodland, overlooking the seaside town of Sheringham.

Hilltop primarily offers comprehensive outdoor educational opportunities to Primary and Middle schools and Sixth Form / Further Education Colleges.

Experience the Great Outdoors

Northumberland National Park Authority is a conservation organisation. National Park status is the highest form of landscape protection in the UK. Of the 11 National Parks in England and Wales, Northumberland is the most northerly, most remote from large urban areas, least visited and least populated.

Nevis Range welcomes explorers and adventurers of all ages. We have many activities for school and youth groups to take part in and would be delighted to host the perfect Adventure day that suits your group. All you need to do is choose one or more activities and we will organise the rest!

Riverside site of the sealing of Magna Carta

Seen by many as the birthplace of modern democracy, this picturesque open landscape beside the Thames was witness to King John's historic sealing of Magna Carta over 800 years ago on 15 June 1215.

A unique Capability Brown Folly Tower in an inspiring location

Graphic displays on three floors, roof viewing platform and Tower Shop are a must for Cotswold visits.

Broadway Tower is one of England's outstanding viewpoints and at 1024 feet (312m) above sea level, it is the second highest point on the Cotswold escarpment. Unrivalled views survey an expanse of a 62 mile radius and as many as 16 Counties.

Mysterious Guardian of the South Downs

Until the 19th century the Long Man was only visible in certain light conditions and after a light fall of snow, but in 1874 it was marked out in yellow bricks.

Eureka! is a unique place for families and groups to visit, where children aged 0 to 11 are inspired to learn all about themselves and the world around them by playing, imagining, experimenting and – above all – having fun, with the caring grown-ups in their lives.

The park occupies the site of an old manor house that fell into terminal decline after the war and was demolished in 1959. Fortunately, the park has continued in use and has become one of the best parks within the region. The park occupies around eight hectares with a large number of facilities on site.

Swinton Druids Temple is neither a temple nor built by Druids. In fact it was built circa 1820 by nobleman William Danby, a very different kind of folly.

Interested in Walking? The Clywedog Trail is a great way to enjoy the open air, whilst discovering the industrial heritage of Wrexham and you don’t have to walk the full length of nine miles in one go – do it in easy stages!

Situated 8 miles from Arbroath and 7 miles from Forfar on the A932, the House of Pitmuies is a category A-listed classically-styled mansion house that dates back to the late 1500s, though the grander west-facing front is believed to date from the 1680's and was "modernised" to the 18th century standard some two hundred years later.

Rocky island crowned by medieval church and castle, home to a living community

Still home to the St Aubyn family as well as a small community, this iconic rocky island is crowned by a medieval church and castle - with the oldest buildings dating from the 12th century.

Immerse yourself in history, wonder at the architecture and discover the legend of Jack the Giant Killer.

One day is never enough. Discover a complete Norfolk estate with something for everyone.

Nobody ever forgets their first sight of Blickling. The breath-taking red-brick mansion and ancient yew hedges sit at the heart of a magnificent garden and historic park in the beautiful Bure meadows.

The story of the estate unfolds over a thousand years. The landscape with its hedges and narrow tree-lined lanes has changed little over the centuries and is quintessentially Norfolk. 

Follow in the footsteps of Hardy and Miller

Broadchurch walking trail has been launched along the Jurassic Coast in Dorset for fans of the TV series. The trail, launched by West Dorset District Council, will help visitors discover the settings of some of the iconic scenes which feature in the hit ITV series.

Dramatic views from the highest point on the Island

The Ventnor Downs rise steeply above the Victorian seaside town of Ventnor. With the sparkling sea below and the holm oak trees which have colonised the south facing chalk slopes there is almost a Mediterranean flavour to the landscape. On the top of the downs you find a complete change of landscape with large open areas of grass and heather.

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