People join CYW for all sorts of reasons. To get outside more, meet people, discover somewhere new or have something different to look forward to at the weekend. Our walking group is ideal for young adults in their 20s, 30s and beyond who enjoy the outdoors with others their age. Whatever brings you along, your first step is simply choosing a walk that suits you.
Explore the beautiful Chiltern Countryside
We love finding new places and sharing the places we know with others. The Chiltern Hills are famous for their stunning views, beech woodland, chalk streams and Red Kites. It's a great part of the country to get out and explore nature on foot walking and hiking. Find hidden gems, re-discover old favourites, and finally get around to walking those well-known routes you’ve heard about. We go out all year round; some of us are fair-weather walkers, others are out walking come rain or shine. All our walks are led by members who volunteer their time for free and are insured to lead walks
Make new friends
We are over 150 people from their 20s to early 40s who enjoy walking and socialising. We walk and talk, most of us join the group because we want company while we walk rather than walk alone. Many people join the group not knowing existing members. Our walks and hikes aren't only to hike the distance; you build friendships and join a community of like-minded people. If we don't stop at a pub or Cafe during the walk we usually do at the end and is a great way to get to know fellow members. You'll see familiar faces and often meet new people each time you come. We have an active socials programme with regular pub nights and other social events.
Pubs have been mentioned, I don’t drink alcohol… In common with many walking groups, we find that pubs are conveniently located and can handle groups of varying size in the middle of the countryside, without us having to pre-book. Our members enjoy refreshments of all varieties, including plenty of cups of tea, there is never any pressure to consume alcohol.
Looking for hiking and walking near Buckinghamshire New University?
If you're studying at Buckinghamshire New University and looking for a hiking or walking group, CYW organises group walks across the Chilterns every weekend. We're an independent Ramblers group not a BNU society and our walks are aimed mainly at people in their 20s, 30s and a little beyond. University life doesn't have to stop at High Wycombe. Get out into the Chilterns, discover places you wouldn't otherwise find and meet people beyond your course and the Students' Union.
Get Active
We believe you can improve your health and have fun walking with us. Our walks are graded from easy to technical, with leisurely walks from 5 miles to more strenuous 15+ mile hikes, we have something to suit almost everyone. Whether you are new to walking or an experienced hiker who is looking for a group to walk with, we will welcome you on any walk; choose one suitable for you.
I’m new to hiking – am I fit enough? Anyone of a reasonable level of fitness should be happy on one of our shorter leisurely walks, less than 7 miles. If you’re not sure, look for one of these, it's better to find a walk a little too slow and easy than exhaust yourself and not enjoy your day out. We like to make it easy if you’re new to walking and our Introductory Walks are short, leisurely featuring beautiful landscapes with a traditional pub en route to give you the opportunity to ask questions. Depending on how you found the walk, you can work your way up to more demanding walks at your own pace.
Boost Your Wellbeing
Doing regular low-intensity aerobic exercise like walking is an ideal way of increasing positive moods. It can also help reduce anxiety and improve self-esteem. “Being out in the fresh air makes me feel great,” says Ramblers member Kandra. “It gives me a sense of well-being that is hard to describe.”
Try up to 3 Walks for Free
Come along to a group walk and see what it’s like for yourself. When you want to attend any of our walks, all you need to do is turn up. You can find us on meetup.com/ChilternYoungWalkers if you'd like to see who's going and optionally let us know you're coming. Some events require booking and this will be highlighted in the details. Try up to three complimentary walks or events, and if you enjoy it sign up to become a member.
Where do you meet? Each walk shows the start point for the walk with a link to a map and google maps dropped pin, description, grid reference and a postcode. Some rural car parks can be a little way from the postcode, please check the map and description of the location.
How do I get to a walk if I don’t have my own transport? Some of our walks will start from a train station, this will be listed on the walk description, and if you would like to discuss a car share, email the walks coordinator at
Ready to give it a try?
Find a walk that looks right for you and come along to explore the Chiltern countryside with us.
Make it official
Continue your journey with us, find out how much to costs to join us.
Part of Ramblers
Britain’s biggest, most vibrant walking community
We are part of and funded by the Ramblers, a charity working to open the way for everyone to enjoy the simple pleasures of walking and we step up to protect the places we all love to wander. Our group was formed in 2000 as the Chilterns 20-30s Walking Group, one of a network of Ramblers groups aimed at people in their 20s and 30s, in addition to groups aimed at slightly older walkers. As a member, you’ll be able to join any Ramblers group walks as often as you like, and wherever you want to explore. With 50,000 group walks open to you, you’ll be spoilt for choice!