New to Large Outdoors? Start Here…
Large Outdoors runs fully guided walking weekends, walking holidays and short breaks across the UK, as well as wild swimming trips and mixed walk-and-swim experiences. Our focus is on sociable group adventures that are well organised, friendly, and easy to join.
If you’re new to Large Outdoors, this page explains how our trips work, who usually comes along, and what joining a walking weekend or holiday is really like.
Many people find us when they’re looking for a sociable way to get outdoors, often on their own, and want to understand what to expect before booking. This page is here to help with that.
There’s no membership to join. You just pick a trip you like and book onto it. All upcoming walking weekends and holidays can be found here:
https://www.largeoutdoors.com/trip-calendar
Do people really come on their own?
Yes — most people do.
The majority of people who join Large Outdoors trips come on their own. Some are new to group walking, others have travelled solo before, and many are simply looking for company and structure without pressure.
You won’t be the only solo walker, and you won’t stand out for coming alone.
What are the groups like?
Groups are small, friendly and mixed. People come from a wide range of backgrounds, but most share a similar outlook — they enjoy walking, fresh air and good company.
You don’t need to be particularly outgoing. Some people chat a lot, others are quieter. There’s no expectation to be sociable all the time, and conversation tends to happen naturally while walking or over meals.
Is it awkward at the start?
It’s very normal to feel a bit nervous before arriving.
Day one is designed to be relaxed, with time to meet the group and settle in. Our guides make sure everyone feels welcome, and once the walking starts most people find the nerves quickly disappear.
How fit do I need to be?
You don’t need to be super fit.
Each trip is graded, and the walking pace is steady and guided, with regular breaks. More challenging trips are clearly described on the trip page so you can decide what’s right for you.
If you’re unsure, it’s always fine to ask before booking.
What does the guide do?
All trips are fully guided.
Your guide looks after the route, pacing and group, and is there to answer questions and make sure everyone feels comfortable. You don’t need navigation experience or local knowledge — that’s all taken care of.
What’s the social side like?
The social side is relaxed rather than intense.
People usually walk together during the day and often eat together in the evenings, but there’s no pressure to socialise constantly. Some people enjoy chatting into the evening, others prefer quieter time — both are absolutely fine.
How do I choose the right trip?
Start by looking at:
The trip level (leisurely, leisurely plus, active, etc.)
The length of the trip
The type of walking involved
Whether the trip is car-free or includes travel
You can browse all upcoming trips here: https://www.largeoutdoors.com/trip-calendar
Still unsure?
That’s completely normal. Many people book their first Large Outdoors trip feeling unsure and are surprised by how comfortable and welcoming it feels.
If you have questions or would like help choosing a trip, you’re very welcome to get in touch before booking.
Next steps
View all upcoming trips: https://www.largeoutdoors.com/trip-calendar
Or sign up to our newsletter for updates on new trips and availability: https://www.largeoutdoors.com/newsletter