Bournemouth Walk, Coffee and Cake is a “fun and inclusive” walking group that “is for everyone”.
It was initially set up by David McArthur MBE in 2023, inviting Dorset residents to join him for free walks around “incredibly beautiful” Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole.
David said: “I realized very quickly that these free walks really made a difference to people’s lives, so I created ‘Bournemouth Walk, Coffee & Cake’.
“It was a steep learning curve as it was my first foray into starting a Facebook group.”
Members of the group range in age from six months to 76 years old, with their youngest walker being just three years old. He walked more than five miles and wanted to continue after the walk was over.
David said: “We started with local walks to reignite people’s passion for the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole area, and now we organize events such as Ben Nevis expeditions and London adventures, as well as walks, hikes and events across BCP, Dorset and New Forest. .
-“Unlike other local social groups, we are not groupists. We are more than happy to organize joint events with other groups and organizations. It is above all about giving life. Our events are numerous and diverse, unlike others, which limit alcohol.
“We are open to walkers and hikers of all ages, levels and backgrounds. With four thousand members, you’ll quickly make new friends. After all, there are no strangers here, only friends you haven’t met yet.”
David particularly thanked Marc Curant, who joined the group as an administrator six months ago, saying: “He is a great support and we are really lucky to have him.”
Marc said: “We want to create a community, bring people together, have a good time, make new friends and have an absolutely fabulous time.”
Depending on the type of walk, the group visits cafes and pubs. As summer approaches, the group becomes interested in twilight walks.
Marc added: “Everyone likes walking, everyone likes cafes and everyone likes cafes.”
