With its winding lanes, historic hills, and breathtaking coastlines, it’s no wonder Edinburgh attracts keen walkers. And for the city’s thriving u3a community, that means no fewer than NINE dedicated walking groups - each one exploring the many aspects of the city, its countryside, the nearby Pentlands, and beyond.
One such group is Walks 8: Winter - Thursday, led by Sally C. This seasonal group heads out every other Thursday from September through to April, for winter walks that stretch from 9.30am to 4.00 pm.
Before retiring, Sally spent her career as a consultant clinical psychologist, latterly working with children and adolescents with learning disabilities and autism. She also played a role in mental health tribunals for the Scottish courts. These days, she and her husband both enjoy uncovering scenic gems. While he prepares for an adventure in Patagonia, however, Sally is often content exploring closer to home.
Initially with a co-leader for the group, Sally had a great foundation to work with, taking over from the highly organised Dave Duncan - now group coordinator. Now leading the group on her own, Sally manages responsibilities such as membership and organising the programme of walks, as well as chasing walk leaders for details of what they have planned. Group members are encouraged to suggest and lead walks - helping plan non-strenuous walks of seven to nine miles that offer exercise and views in equal measure.
Of course, winter walks mean the weather is always on the radar, and Sally shares forecasts ahead of each outing. She says: “It’s a standing joke that, this year at least, alternate Thursdays were sunny!” Every outing is scouted beforehand to check for obstacles - fallen trees, swollen streams or rickety stiles - especially after the stormy weather this year. Not every walk is rural, though; plenty of urban routes offer just as much interest, without ever leaving the city limits.
The group currently has around twenty members who live all over Edinburgh, and around fourteen turn up each time. The Group runs from September. Anyone keen to join should drop an email via the u3a website Group Page to see if there’s space.
Page last updated on 9th September 2025