"We are a group of friends who enjoy hill walking and enjoy sharing our enthusiasm with others. We run a full programme of very varied walks throughout the year, ranging from easy walks in the local area to strenuous ridge walks in Snowdonia plus a residential weekend in late summer.

We do not have any committees or membership requirements, we just meet, walk, talk and have a good time in the hills.

We cater for all ages and all experiences and particularly welcome those who are new to hill walking. Our group of leaders have an extensive range of experiences to ensure that all those who walk with us are returned to The Oak in Guilsfield safe and sound and maybe in time for a drink or two.

The group began its life in 1997 when Richard Rees started leading walks from Guilsfield with a few friends and it has been growing since then. In 1998 he organised the first of the annual Mawddach Trail "outings" from the village. 2008 will be the 10th anniversary.

In 2007 two full buses left Guilsfield for Dolgellau and dropped families at the top of the trail, the buses then drove to Barmouth to wait for the weary walkers. Families and friends then walked to Barmouth along the trail and across Barmouth Bridge to meet at the Last Inn for a well-earned pint, then off into the town for fish and chips. An excellent family event.

Recent Sunday walks include: 9 miles in a misty Radnor Forest; an exploration of the hills around Chirbury: a very wet walk on Moel Hebog: a challenging day in the north of the Rhinog plus a very enjoyable long weekend in Ambleside.

The 2008 programme includes a crossing of Cadair Idris, walks around the Moelwyns near Blaunau Ffestiniog, a couple of very local walks, an ascent of the North Ridge of Tryfan, a good walk on Long Mountain and a residential weekend in the Black Mountains.

If you wish to come on a walk with us have a look at the website programme listed on the right of this page or just turn up at The Oak 10 minutes before departure time with appropriate kit i.e. good footwear, full waterproofs, food and drink for the day. Please note we do not accept dogs on our walks."

Article by Chris Hurrell