We understand that prospective members may be a little nervous about joining a club and meeting up for the first time. Hopefully this section will give you an idea about what you can expect when you come on an Ancrum meet.
Sunday (day) Meets
These usually take place on the last Sunday of the month and entail a trip to the hills within a reasonable driving distance of Dundee. Some example locations are Crianlarich, Glen Doll/Clova, Drumochter, Glen Shee, Glen Lyon, Killin, Bridge of Orchy etc.
Transport to the meet location is usually by car share from Dundee but of course you are welcome to make your own arrangements if you prefer. If travelling in the car pool you will be expected to contribute towards fuel costs. We usually leave Dundee around 8am returning in the evening but you can join us at an intermediate point if this is more convenient.
The exact walk that is undertaken is chosen by the members who are attending the meet. Usually we all walk together on a day meet but if there is a large number of us we may split into groups if people want to do different things.
Weekend Meets
Weekend meets leave Dundee on the Friday evening returning on the Sunday. Again, transport is by car share unless you choose to travel by yourself. The club organises low cost accommodation for the Friday and Saturday nights in club huts, bunkhouses or camping.
Club huts vary in facilities but most huts have shared sleeping accommodation, cooking facilities, toilets and showers, although some remote huts do not have showers / hot water / electricity. Sleeping accommodation may be in bunks or alpine style platforms and is usually mixed. On most meets you will need to bring a sleeping bag and possibly a sleeping mat. On camping meets you will need camping equipment or arrange to share with another member of the club. Some camping meets may be backpacking / wild camping whilst others utilise serviced camp sites.
Members generally cook their own evening meal on the Saturday night. You will need food for this plus for your breakfast on the Saturday and Sunday mornings.
Walking plans are usually made on the Friday evening with a number of different options available. If you do not yet have the experience / skills to look after yourself on the hill you should ensure that you walk with an experienced member.
Ancrum Mountaineering Club 