Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book my place?
In order to book your place please fill in the form that can be found by clicking book now, payment can then be made by bank transfer. If you have any problems or would like to discuss any aspect of a walk or course before booking please get in touch either by email cathyharshaw@hotmail.com or give me a call on 07894858729 (if I am unavailable please leave a mesage and I will get back to you as soon as I can).
Can I buy a place on a walk or a course as a gift or can I buy a gift voucher?
Yes absolutely, you can gift a full walk or course or if you would rather you can buy gift vouchers for a specific amount and let your loved one decide for themselves. You can even get a personalised message added to the gift voucher. You will receive it as a PDF so you can either print it out and give it to them or send it by email. To arrange, please drop me an email on cathyharshaw@hotmail.com.
Example gift vouchers - messages and pictures can be personalised.
Can I book for a different date than the one advertised?
Yes all walks can be done on a date of your choice. Please get in touch either via the form on the contact page or by emailing me on cathyharshaw@hotmail.com with the date or dates you can do, as well as the particular walk you are interested in and I will let you know my availability.
Can under 18's come on walks?
Under 18s are not able to attend open publically advertised walks however I am more than happy to run any of the walks as a private trip for a family group. Childen would need to be accompanied by at least one parent/guardian. Walks can be altered or shortened if necessary. Please get in touch to discuss.
I would like to join my friend on a wild swimming walk but I don't want to swim, can I still come along?
Absolutley! While these walks take us to beautiful swimming spots there is no requirement to swim and the walks have plenty to offer in their own right. I totally understand that getting into cold water is not for everyone and I aim to provide a safe and supportive envirnment for everyone to enjoy the outdoors whatever their preference.
I'd like to try wild swimming for the first time, I've only ever swam in a heated pool, are your walks suitable for me?
These walks are not designed for those who have never swam in cold water, but my Introduction to Cold Water Swimming would be perfect. Due to the remote nature of the swimming spots visited on the Wild Swimming Walks it is important that participants are already familiar with the effects of cold water on their own body. Everyone reacts differently and these locations are not the place to find out if it's the thing for you.
What Qualifications of you hold?
I am a fully qualified Mountain Leader and an Accrediated Practitioner of the Institute for Outdoor Learning. I also hold an STA Open Water Safety Award and 16 hour Outdoor First Aid. For more about me, the experience I have and the qualifications I hold please see the About page.
What do I need to bring and why is it important?
You will be sent a full kit list with your confirmation email depending on what you book but you give you an idea here is a sample kit list Waterproof coat and trousers Hat, gloves and buff (or scarf) An extra warm layer A flask with hot drink At least 1 litre of water Lunch and snacks (you will likely eat more than you do normally) Any medication you may need Anything else you think you will need to have a great day. As everything I offer takes places in remote environments it is really important that you bring everything on the kit list and dress appropriately for the weather. This is not only so that you can be comfortable whatever the weather is, it is also so that in the unlikely event we are out for longer than planned, or something unexpected happens I can keep you and other members of the group safe. If you think you are unable to bring the kit on the list please get in touch before booking.