Question 1

Do I need to know lots about geology to take part?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely not! Activities are designed for anyone who has a passion for nature and wants to learn more about Cornwall's geology, natural history, and culture. The aim is to educate and inspire. No prior knowledge of geology is required, and you are encouraged to ask lots of questions (there is no such thing as a stupid question!). Each activity can be tailored around prior knowledge and what you want to learn.

Question 2

What do I need to wear?

Accepted Answer

Cornish weather can be erratic, often experiencing multiple seasons in one day, so do check the forecast ahead of an activity! Weather conditions can change throughout the day, so make sure you’re prepared. It is advised to bring waterproofs, multiple layers, hat, and gloves for wet and windy weather, and light clothing, sun hats, sun screen, and plenty of fluids for hot and sunny weather. Long sleeves and trousers are recommended all year round to protect from prickly bushes and bity insects. Jeans in wet weather are really uncomfortable. Sturdy footwear such as walking boots are advised to deal with uneven and potentially muddy and slippery terrain. Loose or open footwear can increase the risk of an injury.

Question 3

What do I need to bring?

Accepted Answer

As well as your unwavering enthusiasm, there may be some things you want to bring along for the activity. You may want to bring snacks and a drink. Whilst there may be cafes and shops, it cannot be guaranteed they will be open. Ensure you bring along any medication you may need during the activity, and it is worth bringing a small personal first aid kit if you have one. Bring a camera and binoculars if you have them too.

Question 4

Do I need to be fit?

Accepted Answer

Whilst we are not taking part in extreme sports, parts of the Cornish coast and countryside can involve uneven footpaths and steep inclines, so a reasonable level of fitness is required. You need to be able to walk for the duration of the activity you are booking. Information on accessibility is provided beforehand; each walk is measured against a difficultly scale (https://www.cornwallgeologist.co.uk/geowalk-difficulty-guide)to help you make a judgment of whether it is suitable for you. You must inform us in advance of any pre-existing health conditions that may affect your ability to participate. If you are unsure, please get in touch before you book.

Question 5

What if I need the loo?

Accepted Answer

Some places we visit have public toilet facilities nearby. However, the rural nature of where we are means formal toilet facilities are not always available. This information will be provided beforehand so know what to expect and plan ahead. There will always be opportunities for “al fresco” options if you get caught short!

Question 6

What happens if it's raining?

Accepted Answer

We still intend to go out even in the event of inclement weather. As the saying goes, “there is no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes”! However, in cases of severe weather, an activity may be postponed or cancelled. You will be advised on how best to prepare and what to wear before an activity takes place. In the event of a cancellation due to weather, you will be offered a full refund or the option to reschedule. See our Terms and Conditions (https://www.cornwallgeologist.co.uk/terms-and-conditions)for more information.

Question 7

Is it safe?

Accepted Answer

Whilst the coast and countryside are largely safe places, there are always some potential hazards to people and the environment. Cornwall Geologist is committed to providing a safe and healthy experience for all involved in our activities. With vast experience running outdoor activities and clear protocols in place, our aim is to minimise risks and prevent accidents. Please read the Cornwall Geologist Health and Safety Policy (https://www.cornwallgeologist.co.uk/health-and-safety)for more information.

Question 8

How many people are on a guided walk?

Accepted Answer

This may vary, but for open access guided walks there is typically a minimum of four, and up to a maximum of twelve.This small group size allows you to meet others while still engaging with your trip leader.

Question 9

How do I get there?

Accepted Answer

The meeting point for an activity will be provided to you, via an address, Google Maps link, Ordnance Survey Grid Reference, and What Three Words (https://what3words.com/)location, along with directions and parking instructions. You will be expected to make your own way to the meeting point of an activity. Unfortunately, Cornwall Geologist cannot provide transportation at this current time. Where possible, all activities will be accessible via green transport options (e.g., public transport)(https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/transport-parking-and-streets/public-transport/cornwalls-transport-services/) and relevant details will be provided in advance.

Question 10

How do I find you?

Accepted Answer

Specific instructions on where to meet and what to look out for will be provided in advance of an activity. The trip leader will carry a Cornwall Geologist flag, so look out for the Cornwall Geologist logo! If you cannot find us, call or text the trip leader.

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Question 11

What happens if I’m late?

Accepted Answer

We understand that delays can happen. If you are running late for the start of an activity, please give the trip leader a call or text to let us know. We might be able to delay the start. If we have not heard from you by 10 minutes after the start time, we will begin without you, and no refund will be issued.

Question 12

What happens if I get lost?

Accepted Answer

If you get lost on the way to an activity, contact the trip leader as soon as possible. If you lose sight of the main party during an activity, please go back to the meeting point, and contact the trip leader as soon as possible. You will have access to a map and location information to locate where you are and navigate back to the meeting point.

Question 13

If I have to cancel, do I get a refund?

Accepted Answer

If you wish to cancel a booking, please notify Cornwall Geologist as soon as possible. Cancellations made up to 48 hours before the activity will receive a full refund. No refunds will be issued for cancellations less than 48 hours before an activity. See our Terms and Conditions (https://www.cornwallgeologist.co.uk/terms-and-conditions)for more information.

Question 14

Am I allowed to take rock samples?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the places we visit. In most cases the answer is no. Much of the Cornish coast and countryside is protected by national legislation (e.g., Sites of Special Scientific Interest)(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Site_of_Special_Scientific_Interest) or subject to landowner restrictions. Sampling also presents additional risks such as hammering and potential exposure to hazardous substances. For that reason, Cornwall Geologist does not promote sampling and would rather people didn’t take anything during an activity.

Question 15

Can I bring my dog?

Accepted Answer

We love dogs at Cornwall Geologist, but rules on whether they are allowed on Geowalks can differ from location to location. We often visit environmentally sensitive areas with seasonal nesting, rare wildlife, and grazing livestock, and many of Cornwall’s beaches have seasonal dog bans. Also, some areas like rocky foreshores may not be suitable for dogs. All of this information is provided for specific activities beforehand.

If dogs can come on Geowalks they must be kept on leads at all times during the activity, and you must ensure they will not be a disruption. You are responsible for picking up any dog mess they create. Ensure they are fit and capable enough of completing the walk route, and they also may need drinks and snacks for the journey!

If you would like to bring your furry friend on a Geowalk and want to find out more information, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Question 16

Can I bring a camera or drone?

Accepted Answer

We highly encourage you to bring a camera to capture the spectacular geology and Cornish scenery. We can even offer advice on how to get the best shot of the rocks we encounter. Just ensure you are standing on stable ground before you line up that perfect shot.

Unfortunately, drones are not allowed during activities. This is due to visiting environmentally sensitive areas, and adhering to landowner restrictions.

Question 17

Is there an age limit?

Accepted Answer

One of the things we love most at Cornwall Geologist is to encourage young people to get involved in geology! We want to see as many as possible coming along to our activities, many of which offer a discounted rate for under 18s! Please note that all under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. There are some activities which do come with age restrictions, based on the accessibility level of the locations being visited. This is explained in the Geowalk Difficulty Guide.(https://www.cornwallgeologist.co.uk/geowalk-difficulty-guide) If you are unsure whether an activity is suitable for young people, please get in touch before you book.

Question 18

What happens if I have a disability?

Accepted Answer

Cornwall Geologist is committed to making geology as accessible and inclusive as possible. We offer a range of activities designed to accommodate different abilities, and each activity will have necessary information on accessibility so participants can make informed decisions.

While every effort is made to improve accessibility, some activities may have natural limitations due to terrain or location. For example, rocky foreshores, uneven footpaths, and longer walks may present issues for those with limited mobility or require mobility aids, health conditions that impact fitness, or visual impairments.

If you have a disability or a health condition that may affect your participation, we encourage you to check the Geowalk Difficulty Guide (https://www.cornwallgeologist.co.uk/geowalk-difficulty-guide)which provides specific details on terrain, distance, and elevation for each activity level. Please do also contact us in advance before booking to discuss your specific requirements. This allows us to provide more detailed information about a specific route or, where possible, tailor a private activity to your needs.

We also welcome assistance dogs on our walks, though we recommend getting in touch to ensure the specific terrain is safe and suitable for them.

Frequently Asked Questions