Terms & Conditions

1. Introduction

These terms and conditions govern your booking of a self-guided walking holiday with Encounter Walking Holidays ("we", "us", "our"). By making a booking, you agree to be bound by these terms.

Encounter Walking Holidays is a trading name operating in England and Wales. We specialise in self-guided walking holidays across the UK, including routes such as the South West Coast Path, Cotswolds Way, and other scenic trails.

2. Making a Booking

2.1 Booking Process

Bookings can be made through our website, by email, or by telephone. A booking is confirmed once we have received your deposit and sent you a confirmation email.

2.2 Deposit

A deposit of £150 per person (or 25% of the total cost, whichever is greater) is required to secure your booking. The balance is due 8 weeks before your departure date.

2.3 Late Bookings

For bookings made within 8 weeks of departure, full payment is required at the time of booking.

3. Pricing

3.1 What's Included

Our standard package includes:

• Accommodation in selected B&Bs, guesthouses, or hotels
• Breakfast each morning
• Luggage transfer between accommodations (where specified)
• Detailed route notes and maps
• 24/7 emergency support during your holiday
• Pre-departure information pack

3.2 What's Not Included

Unless otherwise stated, the following are not included:

• Travel to and from the start/end points of your walk
• Lunches and evening meals
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities

3.3 Price Changes

Once your booking is confirmed, we guarantee your price will not change unless there are changes to VAT or other government-imposed charges.

4. Cancellation Policy

4.1 Cancellation by You

If you need to cancel your booking, the following charges apply:

• More than 56 days before departure: Loss of deposit
• 42–56 days before departure: 50% of total cost
• 28–41 days before departure: 75% of total cost
• Less than 28 days before departure: 100% of total cost

4.2 Cancellation by Us

We reserve the right to cancel your booking in exceptional circumstances (e.g., severe weather, path closures, or other safety concerns). In such cases, we will offer you an alternative date, route, or a full refund.

5. Changes to Your Booking

5.1 Changes by You

If you wish to make changes to your booking after confirmation, we will do our best to accommodate your request. An administration fee of £25 may apply, plus any additional costs incurred.

5.2 Changes by Us

Occasionally, we may need to make changes to your itinerary due to circumstances beyond our control. We will notify you as soon as possible and offer suitable alternatives.

6. Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend that you take out comprehensive travel insurance that covers trip cancellation, medical expenses, personal belongings, and any activities you plan to undertake. This is your responsibility to arrange.

7. Health and Fitness

Self-guided walking holidays require a reasonable level of fitness. It is your responsibility to ensure that you and all members of your party are fit enough to complete the chosen route. If you have any medical conditions that may affect your ability to walk, please inform us at the time of booking.

8. Accommodation

We carefully select accommodation providers based on quality, location, and guest feedback. While we strive to book your preferred accommodation, we reserve the right to substitute properties of similar standard if necessary.

9. Luggage Transfer

Where luggage transfer is included, your bags must be ready for collection by the specified time (usually 9:00 AM). We recommend a maximum weight of 20kg per bag. We cannot be held responsible for delays caused by circumstances beyond our control.

10. Liability

10.1 Our Responsibility

We accept responsibility for ensuring that your holiday is supplied as described and that the services we provide are of a reasonable standard. We are not liable for any failure that is not caused by us or our suppliers, or for events that could not have been foreseen or avoided.

10.2 Your Responsibility

You are responsible for your own safety during your walking holiday. You must follow the Countryside Code, stay on marked paths where indicated, and take appropriate precautions for the weather and terrain.

11. Complaints

If you have any concerns during your holiday, please contact us immediately so we can try to resolve the issue. If you remain dissatisfied, please write to us within 28 days of returning home.

12. Data Protection

We are committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our Privacy Policy for details on how we collect, use, and protect your data.

13. Governing Law

These terms and conditions are governed by English law. Any disputes will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.

14. Contact Us

If you have any questions about these terms and conditions, please contact us:

• Email: info@encounterwalk.co.uk
• Phone: 01onal enquiry number
• Address: Encounter Walking Holidays, Cornwall, United Kingdom