Walkers Welcome

Walking is an increasingly popular activity while on holiday in the UK. For example, in 2003 over 45 million trips included short walks and 37 million included long walks or hikes. The new UK wide scheme, which was developed with expert advice and support from the Countryside Agency and the Youth Hostel Association, will give walkers the confidence that they are booking quality accommodation that meets their particular needs. Simple common criteria for the scheme have been introduced along with several activity specific requirements.

Facilities and Services:

• A separate space should be available for drying outdoor clothing and footwear, so clothes can dry overnight.
• Boot scrapes at main doors and/or access to facilities with water supply for cleaning boots and outdoor clothing.
• First Aid kit to be provided as appropriate to size of business.

Food Arrangements:

• In serviced accommodation hot and cold drink making equipment and ingredients should be provided or beverages to be served on request.
• In serviced accommodation evening meal available if no eating facilities within one mile.
• In serviced accommodation early or packed breakfast available (from 7.00am) (continental acceptable) if notified the night before.
• In serviced accommodation a packed lunch to be available (an extra charge may be made). Flask top-up service available.
• In self-catering accommodation provision should be made for the pre-ordering of basic grocery items prior to arrival for guests without a car.

Information Provision:

• Details of nearest doctor, dentist, hospital, and all night chemist and vets (if pet accepted).
• Maps and books available for reference on walking in the area/details of local and regional walking routes and
  organisations.
• Information on local public transport or contact details provided. Also details of any baggage transfer and taxi companies operating locally.
• Weather information for the area displayed prominently and/or telephone numbers that can be called for the latest information by guests, if required.
• Information on local attractions and events and/or local tourist information centre number and directions supplied.
• In self-catering accommodation information provided on location and opening times of nearest shops, including
  directions.
• Details of nearest bank/cash machine, public telephone, post office, post box and outdoor equipment shops.
• Details displayed for rescue services, including Mountain Rescue (if appropriate) and Coastguard and stating 999 phone number (112 from a mobile phone)
• Details displayed of the Countryside Code (www.countrysideaccess.gov.uk or 0845 100 3298).
• Details of local restaurants and pubs offering food.
• Information on other business participating in the Walkers Welcome scheme.
• If group bookings are taken, information should be available for groups on storage facilities, dining facilities/options, group registration and pre arrival
  information required and provided.