1. About our Gatherings

Words and Water Gatherings are relaxed social experiences that bring together books, beautiful places and like-minded readers.

Gatherings may include activities such as gentle walks, visits to independent cafés or bookshops, quiet reading sessions, literary experiences and collaborations with local partners. Details of each Gathering will always be outlined in the individual event description.

Our Gatherings are designed to be informal and enjoyable. They are not professionally guided walks, outdoor instruction sessions or educational courses.

2. Booking

Your booking is confirmed once full payment has been received.

Places are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tickets are non-transferable unless agreed in writing by Words and Water.

3. Cancellations

If you can no longer attend, please let us know as soon as possible.

Tickets are non-refundable unless stated otherwise. If we are able to fill your place from a waiting list, we will refund your ticket (less any booking fees where applicable). This cannot be guaranteed.

If Words and Water needs to postpone or cancel a Gathering, you will be offered either a full refund or the opportunity to transfer your booking to a future event.

4. Participation

By booking, you confirm that you are satisfied the Gathering is suitable for your own health, fitness and mobility.

Where a Gathering includes walking, the event description will explain the approximate distance, terrain and level of difficulty. Participants are responsible for deciding whether the activity is suitable for them.

If you have any medical condition, injury or accessibility requirement that may affect your participation, please contact us before booking so we can discuss whether the Gathering is suitable.

Participants are responsible for their own wellbeing throughout the event and should follow any reasonable instructions given by the organisers to help ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment.

5. Walking Activities

Some Gatherings include walks on public footpaths, trails or pavements. Routes may include uneven ground, steps, mud, tree roots, hills and changing weather conditions.

Please wear suitable footwear and clothing and bring any personal medication you may require.

6. Weather

Gatherings will usually go ahead in light rain.

If severe weather or other unforeseen circumstances make it unsafe or impractical to continue, Words and Water reserves the right to amend the route, alter the itinerary, postpone or cancel the event.

7. Refreshments

Where refreshments are included, please let us know of any dietary requirements when booking. Provided we receive advance notice, we'll work with our venue or catering partner to ensure suitable refreshments are available.

8. Event Partners

Some Gatherings take place in partnership with independent venues or local businesses.

While our partners may provide venues, refreshments or other services, Words and Water remains responsible for organising the Gathering unless otherwise stated.

9. Photography

Photography forms an important part of how we share the Words and Water experience and promote future Gatherings and Retreats.

Photographs and short videos may be taken throughout our Gatherings for use on our website, newsletter, social media and other promotional materials.

We always aim to capture our Gatherings respectfully and sensitively. If you would prefer not to appear in any photographs or videos, please let us know when you arrive and we'll ensure your wishes are respected.

10. Respect for Others

We want every Gathering to feel welcoming, inclusive and enjoyable.

We reserve the right to refuse participation or ask a participant to leave if their behaviour is abusive, unsafe or significantly disrupts the experience of others. In these circumstances, refunds will not be given.

11. Personal Belongings

Participants are responsible for their own personal belongings throughout the Gathering.

12. Age

Unless otherwise stated, Gatherings are intended for adults aged 18 years and over.

13. Liability

Words and Water takes reasonable care in planning and delivering all Gatherings.

Nothing in these Terms excludes or limits liability where it would be unlawful to do so, including liability for death or personal injury caused by negligence or for fraud.

Subject to the above, participants attend Gatherings at their own discretion and are responsible for making appropriate decisions regarding their own health, safety and personal belongings throughout the event.

14. Dogs

To ensure the comfort of all participants, dogs are not permitted on any Gatherings.

15.Contact

If you have any questions before booking, we'd love to hear from you. Please get in touch if you'd like to discuss whether a particular Gathering is suitable for you.