In an age of digital overload and fast-paced living, the simple act of walking – side by side, step by step – remains one of the most powerful ways to connect. For the Morley Walking Club, it’s been the heartbeat of their community since April 1971.

Founded by Tom Gommersall and Harold Hargreaves, the group began with nothing more than a typewriter, a Roneo duplicating machine, and a shared love of the outdoors. The secretary would type up a walking itinerary, duplicate it using a stencil system, and committee members would deliver it by hand to members’ doorsteps. There was no email list, no website – just dedication and a strong belief in bringing people together through walking.

More than 50 years later, the Morley Walking Club is still going strong. Their communications may have gone digital – with updates now sent by email and posted online – but their founding spirit of inclusivity, community, and fresh air remains unchanged.

Walks for Every Level
The group runs a structured monthly programme of Sunday walks, offering something for a range of abilities and preferences:
1st Sunday: Medium walk (7 to 9 miles)
2nd Sunday: Long walk (9+ miles)
3rd Sunday: Short walk (5 to 7 miles)

Led by experienced members, the walks explore the rich landscapes of West Yorkshire and beyond – from rolling countryside and quiet trails to charming villages and canal paths. Each walk is as much about enjoying the scenery as it is about staying active.

Children and well-behaved dogs are also welcome on most walks, provided they are accompanied by a responsible adult or owner. It’s not unusual to see families and four-legged companions joining, adding to the friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

Going the Extra Mile: Walking Holidays
Beyond the Sunday outings, the Morley Walking Club also organises walking holidays – a long-standing tradition that allows members to explore new locations together. These holidays blend scenic walking with leisure and socialising, often forming lasting memories.

In February 2026, the group will head to Glasgow, where they’ll enjoy walks through urban parks, nearby countryside, and perhaps a bit of local culture in between.

Community for All (with some terrain considerations)
The group prides itself on being open and welcoming. At just £5 per year, the membership fee is deliberately low to make participation as accessible as possible. There’s no requirement to attend every walk, and new members are always encouraged to come along and give it a try.

However, due to the nature of the routes – often including stiles, uneven ground, hills, and rural footpaths – most walks are not suitable for wheelchair users, pushchairs or those with significant mobility impairments. While the group does its best to be inclusive, terrain limitations are an honest consideration.

A Lasting Legacy
What began with two friends, and a hand-cranked duplicator has grown into one of Morley’s most enduring community groups. Some members have been walking together for decades; others are new and discovering the joys of group walking for the first time. All are united by their appreciation for fresh air, gentle exercise, and the unique sense of connection that comes from walking side by side.