Welcome to the
Language Hikers
Hi, I'm Jayne
I'm the founder of Language Hikers. Language Hikers grew from a desire to merge my love for nature with my passion for language. Today, we welcome clients of all ages, raging from seven to eighty-seven years old, on immersive walks in small groups or 1-to-1 sessions that serve so many purposes!
My Story
My love for nature began growing up in the countryside near York, where I spent my childhood exploring forest trails and riverbanks with my mum. Those moments not only deepened my appreciation for the outdoors but also sparked a curiosity to travel and discover new places.
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At 17, I took my first big leap—jetting off to Málaga with two school friends for a holiday. Instantly, I fell in love with the vibrant Spanish culture. Without hesitation, I found work, and as my friends boarded their flight home, I chose to stay and embrace this new adventure! I worked tirelessly in the hospitality sector for five years, yet my heart always led me back to nature, escaping to the mountains whenever I could, however, after a frightening experience I realized it was time to leave and return home.
Just three weeks later, I flew to the Balearic Islands to visit my father—and little did I know, it would become my home for the next 25 years. I fully immersed myself in the Spanish community, eventually establishing a successful estate agency for almost 22 years. Life on the Island was seasonal but had a beautiful rhythm.
"My mission is simple: to help people build confidence in speaking a foreign language, connect with nature, and create positive changes
no matter how big or small. "
Jayne, Language Hikers Founder
We worked hard in the summer months, and the quieter winter months was spent working but also hiking across the island, while my interactions with locals helped refine my Spanish skills. It was here that my son was born, and when he turned eight, we moved back to York to help him strengthen his English and be nearer to family.
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Now, my son is fluent in both languages—a decision I’m incredibly grateful for. Through all of life’s ups and downs, my mum remains my greatest inspiration. She continues to walk miles every day with unwavering strength, despite suffering with her own challenging health conditions.
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My latest venture grew from a desire to merge my love for nature with my passion for language. Today, we welcome clients of all ages, ranging from seven to eighty-seven years old, on immersive walks in small groups or 1-2-1 sessions that serve so many purposes.
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Whether it's overcoming classroom anxiety, improving conversational Spanish, tackling post-pandemic isolation, fostering friendships, supporting mental health, or simply getting fitter, our walks offer something for everyone. My mission is to connect people together, help support our local community, offer helpful resources and create positive change in people's lives no matter how big or small.
What our hikers say about us
Jayne makes learning Spanish fun and interesting, plus walking for fitness is a bonus. It’s a fresh way to learn outside of a classroom.
Mike Sellars
The judgement-free, conversational style of revising has really bolstered my confidence in both speaking and retaining vocabulary.
Evie Stanford
There's something wonderfully grounding about walking while letting new words and phrases natually sink in!
I look forward to my weekly Spanish sessions with Jayne
Heather Lambourn
I think learning Spanish in a small group has been really good for me and very interesting. I am a beginner learner but I'm speaking Spanish every week!
Judith Amos
Helpful
Resources
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