What started as a simple idea between friends has grown into a welcoming community initiative in Cavan.
Walkie Talkie & Tea began when founder Ann Marie Sexton wanted company for a walk and realised others might be feeling the same. She first brought together six friends for a social walk, with the hope of creating a space where people could connect and ease loneliness in a simple, relaxed way.
Since then, the group has continued to grow and now meets every Monday night at The Orchard Bar, Drumalee, Cavan. The group heads off at 7:30pm for a gentle 2km walk, with tea served from 8pm. It is not a fitness class or a fast-paced session. Instead, the focus is on conversation, connection and making people feel welcome. Some people join for the walk, while others come along just for the tea and chat afterwards.
Over recent months, Walkie Talkie & Tea has also hosted a range of community gatherings. These have included a Christmas party in The Orchard Bar, a January “Big Break Breakfast” in Adrianna’s Bistro, and February’s “Jar of Hearts”, which gave young local baker Ava’s Bakes a chance to showcase her work. In March, the group’s “Moody March” gathering featured music from local performers The Righteous Way, alongside shared stories and community conversations.
Now the group is moving into “Awesome April”, with a Spring Gala planned for 12 April at 2pm in Hotel Kilmore. The event will feature local bakers, crafters, makers and small businesses, while also raising awareness of the Walkie Talkie & Tea initiative and the value of community connection. Admission is free.
The group says its longer-term hope is to see the idea grow beyond Cavan, with similar local groups developing in other areas while keeping the same simple ethos of a walk, a talk and a tea. It has also linked in with Get Ireland Walking, which the group says provides public liability cover as the initiative develops.
Representatives from ALONE and health and wellness information will also be part of the Spring Gala.
At its heart, Walkie Talkie & Tea is about creating a friendly space where people can come together, support local businesses and enjoy connection that does not have to centre around alcohol. What began as one walk among friends is now helping build a stronger sense of belonging in the community.
