Route Overview

Starting Point: Shearwater Car Park
Distance: 5.5km / 3.5 miles
Time: ~2 hours (inc stops)
Ascent: 101m
Grade: Complete Beginner (Find out more about our grading system here)
Terrain: Gravel tracks, muddy trails

Join us for a gentle evening walk among the magical forest around the Longleat estate. We will begin our walk at Shearwater Lake, following the water's edge, where we can spot herons, mallards, coots, and moorhens. We will then head into the forest, where we will walk among tall pines, giant redwoods, beeches and oaks. We will meander along the forest tracks before heading back towards the lake, where our walk will end at the car park.

This walk is kindly sponsored by Merry People, which means it's free for everyone and you will get a free pair of boots to wear on the walk. We will be taking photos and videos during the walk; by signing up, you consent to having your photo taken, posted on social media, and used in promotional material. Please only book if you can attend, as spaces are limited. Once you book, you'll receive an email with a form to fill out to choose which boots you'd like.

Getting There

By Car: We will meet at Shearwater Car Park.

By Public Transport: Unfortunately, this walk is only accessible via car, but please feel free to use the lift share group below.

Liftshare: If you need or can offer a lift, please post in the Lift Share WhatsApp Group.

What to Bring

Plenty of snacks and/or a packed lunch
Water
Weather-appropriate clothing
Small first aid kit with personal medication
A bag for your essentials

Who will be your guide?

Hi, I’m Alice! I’m a Qualified Mountain Leader and CEO of The Adventure Girls Club. I founded this club to create a welcoming space for women to reconnect with nature through adventure and outdoor skills. I love meeting the amazing women who join our events, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see participants leave feeling more connected to nature and to one another.

What to expect on a TAGC hike

A qualified hike leader to lead the way and keep you safe
A slow walking pace where no one gets left behind
A welcoming and friendly group of like-minded women
Plenty of facts about the nature and history of the walk
Lots of 'faff' stops to drink water, snack and de-layer and re-layer
A relaxing lunch/dinner break (if the weather allows!)
A link to share photos after the hike

Who can join?

Our events are for cis-women, trans-women and non-binary people who feel safer in women-only spaces.

Club Membership

Non-members are welcome at all our events. We also offer a club membership, which provides free or discounted access to events, a community WhatsApp group, and route cards and resources via our online platform. You can find out more about the club membership here.

Safety & Participation

Our hikes are designed to be enjoyable and relaxed – it’s about experiencing nature, not rushing! However, you are responsible for your own health and safety. If you're unsure about your fitness level, consult your doctor or reach out if you have any concerns.

I am a Qualified Mountain Leader and Level 3 Outdoor First Aid trained, so I’ll be available in case of emergencies.

Toilets

There are toilets at the start of this walk, but otherwise be prepared for a ‘wild wee’ if needed—just let someone in the group know and find a private spot.

Dogs

Well-behaved dogs are welcome! However, I can't guarantee that all styles are dog-friendly, so be prepared to carry your dog over a style if necessary. Dogs must be kept on leads around livestock or wildlife, and the guide has the right to enforce this. If bringing a dog, please post in our Dog Chat WhatsApp Group to let other dog owners know.

Refund Policy

Please cancel your space on the event page if you can no longer attend, so it's available to someone else.

Terms & Conditions

By signing up for this event, you agree to our Terms & Conditions. Please note this event is for over-18s only.

Contact the host of Women-only walk | Longleat Forest | Sponsored by Merry People