Hill & Moorland environment
Hill and Moorland walking are adventurous activities with a risk of personal accident and/or injury. Part of the attraction of hill and moorland walking is the challenge of tackling different terrains, landscapes and conditions; indeed, risk is often an integral part of the activity. Every effort is made to minimise potential risks & hazards; however, the very nature of hill and moorland walking involves a certain level of inherent and unavoidable risk of personal accident and/or injury.
The most common accident and/or injury in the outdoors include slips, trips and falls, as well as personal injury such as blisters, strained muscles, scratches & stings, sunburn, getting cold and varying degrees of personal discomfort due to weather/ground conditions (these are just examples and is not an exhaustive list). Of course, more serious accidents/injuries may occur due to the natural environment (steep, uneven, rocky, wet, slippery ground), personal health issues and extreme weather conditions.
By taking part in this activity, you are aware of and accept these risks.
• All walks will involve a varying degree of uneven & rough terrain, muddy/rocky/wet ground, fields, riverside, woodland, remote open country, high ground, hills & moorland terrain, stiles, stream crossings, roads and lanes, farms and livestock as well as a number of ascents/ descents, some of which may be steep and sustained.
• Weather – We may encounter adverse weather conditions on the walk, such as strong winds, rain, mist, fog, sunshine (harmful UV), heat or cold. We may also encounter darkness and/or poor visibility. These conditions are an inherent part of outdoor activities, but may lead to varying levels of personal discomfort, such as getting cold and wet. The Walk Leader will continuously monitor weather and ground conditions, and dynamically manage the route chosen during the day to suit the group’s needs.
• The pre-planned routes may be subject to change whilst on the walk due to adverse weather conditions, pace of the group, fitness and ability levels, accidents or injuries etc. In extreme circumstances the walk may be terminated. Once the walk has commenced then any such changes to the preplanned walk are deemed to be part of the event. The decision to change or terminate the walk lies solely with the Walk Leader.
• Walking and outdoor activities can be strenuous. Never underestimate the strenuous nature of walking particularly when this is combined with the natural environment, hill and moorland terrain and the elements.
• Outdoor Explorers Yorkshire accept no responsibility for personal accidents or injury or for loss or damage to personal effects unless caused by their negligence as Walk Leaders. We strongly recommend you have adequate personal insurance cover for accident or injury, as well as travel insurance in case of cancellation.
• All participants must take heed of any safety information, guidance or hazard warnings given by the Walk Leader during the pre-walk briefing or whilst on the walk.
• Fitness and Experience – Most of our walks require no previous hill or moorland-walking experience as full guidance will be given; walks are ‘pitched’ according to the experience and average fitness levels of the group. A reasonable level of fitness and ability is required as the natural environment can be demanding at times.
• All participants must provide full, complete and accurate information on their Consent Form, including any medical conditions, special requirements, allergies and/or recent illnesses; participants must inform the Walk Leader of any changes to their personal information (including medical information) that have occurred between signing their Consent Form and the day of the walk.
• All participants must provide suitable outdoor footwear, with good tread for grip.
• The Walk Leader reserves the right to refuse to take a participant whom they consider will be unable to complete the planned activity, is wearing unsuitable clothing, ignores direct safety instructions from the Walk Leader or whose behaviour falls below an acceptable standard that puts others within the group at risk.
• Alcohol, smoking & vaping- As this is an Adventurous Activity in a natural environment then we operate a no alcohol, no smoking and no vaping policy during the activity.
• Dogs – Unless pre agreed dogs are not permitted on our walks. If pre agreed then you can bring a well-behaved dog with you. Your dog MUST be insured, wormed and kept on a lead at all times. Some of our walks are not suitable for dogs, due to ground nesting birds, livestock, terrain etc. Registered assistance dogs are always welcome.
• Accommodation, Food & Travel – You must book and pay for any accommodation, food and/or travel (the ‘service provided’) directly yourself. The contract for the service provided is between the person making the booking and the service provider.
Issue Date
September 2026
Date of Next Update
September 2027
This policy is next due for a general review on the above date. It may however be reviewed and updated earlier, in the event of a change in requirements, or relevant legislation.