How to become a member
The best thing to do is to come along to one of our pub meets. If you are able to contact us in advance then we can expect you on the evening and make sure somebody is around to welcome you.
You can sign up using the membership form on the website, and you will receive a link to a welcome document and also get registered with the BMC. Further details can be found on: https://www.newburymountainclub.org.uk/bmc-membership-benefits
How to book on a trip
Trip details are posted in the website, Facebook and via email and you can sign up using the trip booking form. Most of our trips need to be booked up well in advance due to the accommodation for which a deposit is usually required
What to expect
Weekend trips usually start on a Friday evening and finish Sunday afternoon. The organiser will try to figure out lifts and car shares as necessary. If not already planned, Saturday’s activities are sorted out on Friday night and depending on the area, there might be one or more walk options available. Sunday is then organised along the same lines, before we make our way back to Newbury.
We try to do a group meal on the Saturday evening an for everything else you should make your own plans
Equipment
Below is a list of essential and useful equipment. Don’t worry, there’s no need to rush out and spend a fortune in the nearest gear shop if you don’t have everything as quite often it’s possible to borrow from other club members and the club also has some equipment to lend out. There is a huge range of clothing and equipment these days and over time, you’ll find out what works best for you or brands that you prefer.
Essentials
- Footwear, with good grip suitable for the conditions. For most, this means walking boots.
- Hiking Socks (some people use a very thin pair under a thicker pair to help prevent blisters)
- stretch trousers (not Jeans)
- Waterproofs
- Insulated jacket
- Wooly Hat
- Gloves or mittens
- Base layers in Winter
- Water bottle / Platypus / Camelback
- 30 litre rucksack is sufficient for most trips
- Map and Compass
- Whistle
- Head torch
- First aid kit
Useful items
- Gaiters for boggy / wet conditions or snow
- Walking poles
- Spare gloves
- Survival / Bivvy bag
- Thermos flask
- Goggles for snow or hail conditions
- Ice axe
- Crampons
- Sunhat /sunglasses / sunscreen
- Midge repellent (especially in Scotland in July)
For Bunk Houses:
- Sleeping bag (if not provided)
- Towel (if not provided)
- Earplugs (for those communal bunkhouse rooms!)
For All Trips:
- Food and drink
- Beer/wine money
- Sense of humour, camaraderie and a bit of determination