About Walkers Are Welcome
Walkers Are Welcome volunteers celebrating with 2009/10 Mayor, Cllr Justine Fulford
How Chesham gained its Walkers Are Welcome accreditation
The town had to show:
Popular local support - a petition was signed by over 500 local residents
Action to ensure that facilities for walkers are maintained in good conditions - Chesham Walkers Are Welcome are currently surveying all 135 local footpaths on behalf of Buckinghamshire County Council to assist in the maintenance programme
Adequate Marketing - Six walks leaflets are available around town and from this web site. There are plans to install signage at Chesham Station and the Water Meadow Car Park. Events and self-guided walks are featured in the local press and magazines.
Encouragement of walking using public transport - as well as liaising with transport providers, public transport advice will appear on marketing leaflets.
Mechanisms to maintain Walkers Are Welcome status - a group has been established including representatives of councils, local and national walking groups.
To find out more about the Walkers Are Welcome visit the national Walkers Are Welcome web site.
Who is Walkers Are Welcome For?
Walking can be enjoyed by all, whether in the countryside or just around town. The Walkers Are Welcome group, with help from its partners, is promoting a full range of existing walks and new walks from Chesham town suitable for families, wheelchair users as well as more experienced hikers.
Walkers already visit - why does Chesham need Walker Are Welcome?
Many people come to and pass through the town, on their way to many footpaths including the Chiltern Way and Chess Valley Walk. A number of shorter ones, including town walks, may be of interest to visitors. Visitors to the Chiltern Way, for example, may be unaware of all that Chesham has to offer - the library, the museum, a wide range of shops, eateries, pubs, places to buy maps, walking gear, a meal, or just a cup of coffee. For weekend hikers, some bed and breakfasts and hotels are available in the area. The Walkers Are Welcome group will help to co-ordinate and promote these services. Outlets will display the Walkers Are Welcome logo and issue information about walks.
Our partners
The following are our partner groups: Chesham Environmental Group, the Chiltern Society, The Ramblers and Simply Walk.
Walkers Are Welcome is also supported by: Chesham Town Council, Chiltern District Council, Buckinghamshire County Council and the Chilterns Conservation Board.