“Founded on friendship and a love for open spaces.” That’s the motto of the Forest Ramblers, the walking club we celebrate today at the Forest ramblers club centenary. This club, remarkably, is believed to be the oldest still rambling in the UK. Let’s step back to November 1884. A group of North-east London businessmen, led by Mr. J H Porter, formed the Forest Ramblers’ Club. Porter became the first Secretary and Treasurer.
One of the Forest Ramblers’ Club’s primary goals was protecting Epping Forest. After 15 years of legal battles, the Forest became a public open space in 1878. It was managed by the City of London Corporation. The club ensured the Corporation was aware of any unlawful damage.
Because of the Forest Ramblers’ Club’s connection to Epping Forest, the chief officer was known as the Ranger. There were up to 15 Verderers. Each Verderer was responsible for a particular area. This office is now defunct. The club quickly began exploring footpaths around London. They watched for obstructions by landowners.
Membership was initially limited to men. However, the club held Ladies’ Days frequently, especially in summer. These Ladies’ Days included river trips and visits to interesting places. Transport was provided by trap or brake. Evening social events were also important in the club’s early days. From 1886 to about 1897, an annual soiree featured music and dancing. Later, dinners and social evenings became more popular. The Forest Ramblers’ Club also organized extended visits. They traveled to Devon, Derbyshire, Cornwall, Paris, and the Ardennes. Many members were interested in natural history.
Some notable figures were members. E S Taylor, also known as “Walker Miles,” authored rambling booklets. Sir Lawrence Chubb, Secretary of the Commons, Open Spaces & Footpaths Preservation Society was a member. Percy Lindley, author of travel books, also joined. William and Gilbert Foyle, Charing Cross Road booksellers, were members too.
Rambles have been held continuously since 1884. The only exceptions were during a few months in the Second World War due to intensive bombing. One walk was abandoned at Cassiobury Park in 1953. The group was caught in a violent blizzard. During the 2001 foot and mouth crisis, the Forest Ramblers’ Club arranged a substitute program of walks. These walks were mainly in London.
Today, the Forest Ramblers are still active. Their walks take place in London and the surrounding countryside. Walks are scheduled on the second, fourth, and fifth Thursdays of the month. They depart from a National Rail or TfL station. Walks start in the late morning. This allows members to use Freedom Passes and Senior Rail Cards. The walks proceed at a leisurely to moderate pace. The Forest Ramblers always lunch at an appealing pub. It is generally within two miles of the walk’s start.
The Forest Ramblers’ Club has provided healthy enjoyment of leisure for 100 years. It encourages rambling and promotes friendship. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of walking. The Forest ramblers club centenary is not just a celebration of the past. It is a promise for the future. A future filled with shared steps, beautiful landscapes, and lasting friendships.