Hillingdon

Saturday 26th September 2026.  Around 3 miles of self-led easy walking in small groups. Lots of stops to look for answers!

Following the success of last year’s walking quiz, Rob, along with Barbara and Lesley, put together another one this year. Fortunately the weather was good again and 24 of us gathered at the guide hut in Ruislip to join Rob and Jenny, Barbara and Lesley. The start time was published as between 1:00 and 1:30 and groups were setting off soon after they arrived. By 1:20 all the groups were on their way, some in groups of 3 and some in 4 or 5. The route was a circular one through Ruislip Woods and via The Lido but it was completely different to last year. We were given a map with indications of where to find the answers plus a question paper. Although some of the answers were very obvious from the information boards or objects, some needed a degree of general knowledge. We tried hard not to enquire of Google on our phones but it was all just a bit of fun so it didn’t really matter. As we walked round we met with other groups and poker faces were needed not to give anything away! The questions were well set and must have taken Rob quite some time to get them all perfected and then checked out. Just one question “foxed” most of us and required you to look up at the fox high up on a weather vane in Ruislip Manor Library. Never before had all the adverts on the display boards been so thoroughly scrutinised to find the answer to that particular question!

Back at the guide hut afterwards, scones with clotted cream and jam plus a welcome mug of tea and other nibbles were provided as we sat and chatted. It was good to meet other members of Hillingdon Ramblers who might normally walk on different days.

It had been a good fun and very enjoyable occasion and we thanked Rob, who set the questions along with Jenny and of course Barbara and Lesley for the delicious scones and very welcome cup of tea.