This is an online version of our group programme, you can pick up a paper copy at any of our meetings. For a quick listing of what's coming up, see the list of forthcoming events.
The programme is split into the following sections:
- Welcome to the Leicester Local YHA Group
- Weekends and Longer Trips
- Day Walks and Events
- Evening Events
Welcome to the Leicester Local YHA Group
We are an informal and friendly social walking group, comprising people of all ages and abilities. This programme details our weekend trips, day walks as well as evening social events such as theatre visits and meals out. We aim to have a regular spread of trips and events throughout the year, with plenty of variety to suit different tastes. We visit a wide variety of destinations throughout Britain and abroad, with events being organised by anyone within the Group
New members are always offered a warm welcome. We meet every Wednesday evening from 8.00 pm onwards at the Local Hero pub at Freemens Common, near the centre of Leicester. Meetings are generally informal, however, we do from time to time organise more formalised get togethers usually around a particular theme, speaker or social event.
The Group has recently produced a New Members Pack, a comprehensive introduction to the Group which answer many frequently asked questions. For those considering organising a hostelling weekend, we have also produced a straightforward guide to booking and organisation.
Before embarking on any our events, please note that all the activities listed in this programme are carried out at an individual's own risk.
Weekends and Longer Trips
The Group organises regular weekends away, mainly staying in youth hostels or similar accommodation. Many hostels offer breakfast and evening meals, as well as facilities for self caterers. The advance payment for a weekend covers overnight accommodation and a contribution towards transport costs. Any unused funds are refunded at the Treasurer's discretion. It is advisable to bring food and drink for a mid day packed lunch in addition to any other meals. Almost all weekends involve walking, so it is essential to bring adequate boots, rucksack, waterproofs and warm clothing.
Unless otherwise noted, all our weekend trips depart on Friday night and return on Sunday evening.
26th - 27th July: Youlgreave YH
A chance for those tackling the West highland way to get some practice in, but there may be a few places left over for anyone else who wants to go.
- Organiser:
- Kathy - 0116 2386340
- Cost:
- £45
- Web Link:
2nd - 3rd August: Rowen YH
This traditional Welsh hill farmhouse retains much of its rustic charm and original character. Situated at the top of a very steep, narrow lane, it offers breathtaking views over the Conwy Valley and across to Snowdonia. A friendly welcome awaits walkers with open fires in the lounge and dining room to warm you after a day on the hills.
7th - 9th August: Cropredy Festival
Folk/rock convention
- Organiser:
- Dave - 0116 2600953
23rd - 25th August: Bank Holiday at Blaxhall YH
This redbrick property has recently been refurbished to provide comfortable accommodation in what was once the village school. It now offers good disabled access on the edge of the Suffolk Sandlings, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with easy walking and flat cycling routes as well as the nearby bird reserves of Minsmere and Orfordness.
- Organiser:
- Dorothy - 0116 2211932
- Cost:
- £60
- Web Link:
29th August - 8th September: West Highland Way
A hundred mile walk over the course of a week, culminating in an ascent of Ben Nevis. Only fit walkers need apply!
- Organiser:
- Kathy - 0116 2386340
- Cost:
- £300 approx
- Web Link:
11th - 12th October: Crowden YH (tbc)
Situated next to Crowden Brook, why not use this newly re-built accommodation is also a great base for walking the surrounding high plateaus and moors.
- Organiser:
- Kathy - 0116 2386340
- Web Link:
13th - 14th December: Christmas Weekend at Kington YH
This renovated Victorian Cottage Hospital makes the perfect base for walking Offa's Dyke, exploring villages full of Tudor half-timbered houses, castles, gardens, National Trust properties and market towns along the historic Welsh marches.
- Organiser:
- Alan - 07970 778649
- Web Link:
Day Walks and Events
Members of the Group organise occasional day walks and other events within a fairly short drive time from Leicester. If you are interested in any of the walks, please contact the organisers listed below. As with all our walks, it is advisable to bring proper boots, a waterproof and a packed lunch.
Saturday, 5th July: The Taming of the Shrew at Stratford
The flamboyant Petruchio wins the unruly Kate's hand in marriage. Will his unconventional methods succeed in curing her temper and scolding tongue? Shakespeare explores the sexual politics of marriage in one of his earliest and most controversial comedies.
Travel to Stratford in the morning for the 1pm matinee performance, followed by an optional evening meal. Please contact Stella asap to reserve your ticket.
- Organiser:
- Stella - 0116 2703720
- Cost:
- £10.50 + Petrol
- Web Link:
Saturday, 12th July: Day Walk & BBQ
Join Steph for a 8 mile walk, followed by a barbecue at her house that evening. Please bring a packed lunch and some food to share at the BBQ.
- Distance:
- 8 miles / 13 km
- Organiser:
- Stephanie - 01509 554151
Evening Events
Wednesday, 2nd July: First Meeting at The Western
Our first meeting at our new venue - The Western pub in the west end of Leicester.
- Organiser:
- Alan - 07970 778649
Friday, 4th July: Petanque at the Baker's Arms, Blaby (tbc)
Celebrate American independence day by, erm, playing the classic French game of Petanque
- Organiser:
- Mick - 0116 2543536
Friday, 25th July: Skittles Match at the Rose & Crown
A match against the members of Spokes, at the Rose & Crown pub in Thurnby.
- Organiser:
- Norman - 0116 2710046
Saturday, 16th August: Henry V at Kenilworth Castle
Join Heartbreak Theatre for an outstanding evening of extraordinary shakespeare entertainment - Henry V is an inspirational and enriching story about the triumph of human spirit against overwhelming odds.
The event is in the Castle grounds, so subject to weather, (bring waterproofs, blankets and/or chairs etc) but atmospheric. Bring a Picnic to share and eat in the grounds before the performance.
Gates Open 6.30pm
Performance 7.30pm
- Organiser:
- Catherine - 0116 2700231
- Cost:
- Adults £12, Concessions £10, due by 27th June 2008
- Web Links:
Wednesday, 12th November: AGM
Meet to discuss the running of your group, at the Rose & Crown pub in Thurnby starting at 8pm.
- Organiser:
- Alan - 07970 778649
And Finally...
Please note that the Group now holds a computer database of the names and addresses of people who wish to receive copies of this programme. This information is used purely for distribution purposes and is not divulged to anyone not associated with Group activities.
We hope you found this programme useful and informative. Happy walking!
