I first joined Strolls with Poles in spring 2021. After a year of limited social contact, it was a breath of fresh air to be able to join a group in an outdoor activity that felt safe and welcoming. Julie and Martin are both friendly and easy going, making for relaxing get togethers. As someone who likes to be organised, the information both in the form of monthly newsletters and emails ensures all essential information is provided- location details, walk information, length of walk and most importantly, where the toilets are before the start of the walk!
Walking with the group in such varied and beautiful locations always lifts my spirits and knowing it is doing me good physically also is a bonus. Other group members are friendly and it’s great to catch up with a chat in the tea room at the end of the walk.
I’m really glad I found this group and would recommend it to anyone, I even got my sister involved when she was visiting from Scotland – she now Nordic walks too!

Really relaxing and fun time, with people who make you feel welcome. Scenery great and the cake at the end isn’t bad either. Plus you get fitter, what’s not to like.
Dave T

I have discovered areas of the countryside I have never before visited, walking in the company of some great people in sunshine, rain, wind and fog and yes I have enjoyed every minute!
I was a bit apprehensive when I signed up for my first walk – I wasn’t very sure at all and had lots of questions.
Was I going to be fit enough? Would I hold everyone back? I surprised myself as to what I can do – walking and especially going up hills has proved easier with poles. Despite health issues limiting how often I could get out walking – I found the walks ideal with enough to challenge me but plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the view!
Would I be the odd one out faced with a clique of people who were already friends? From the very first moment I felt included – just as much a part of the group as if I had been going for years. It’s very relaxed and you can chat as much or as little as you want
How would I manage with the poles? Julie’s style of teaching is always encouraging and helpful. I have now done a basic instruction course but that was only after two walks – and I was pleasantly surprised how much I had picked up on my two walks I had already done. If I’m out walking now without poles – I miss them!

I have been walking with Julie and Martin since the start of Strolls with Poles and just love it! The walks are varied and well planned, visiting some of the most beautiful spots in the North East. Everyone is made to feel so welcome no matter their fitness or walking experience. They have given me the confidence to try walks I never thought I could achieve and I have gone from a couch potato to doing long distance walks. Julie you are a star.

I moved to Northumberland in March 2021, and joining Strolls with Poles has enabled me to get out and explore the area. Julie and Martin are great instructors,supportive and make you feel very welcome. The walks cover all areas, and walking with the group is not hard as everybody supports and encourages each other and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the view. I would recommend Strolls with Poles to anybody who wants to walk and explore our wonderful countryside with friendly folks and get fitter as a bonus, and there is always the tea shop at the end as a bonus.