Initially we will follow the LOOP, making a short diversion to admire the 15th tower of St Mary’s Church (https://www.stmarysewell.com/about-us/church-history/). This will take us through the Hogsmill Nature Reserve (https://www.epsom-ewell.gov.uk/residents/venues-sport-and-leisure-facilities/parks/local-nature-reserves/hogsmill-local-nature) until we meet the Thames Down Link which we join heading south through Horton Country Park (https://www.localcountryparks.co.uk/surrey/horton-country-park/), across Epsom Common (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epsom_Common) and then Ashtead Park (https://www.parksandgardens.org/places/ashtead-park).
Shortly after, we depart from the Thames Downs Link and head across Langley Vale towards Walton and Epsom Downs where we will traverse the race course (https://www.thejockeyclub.co.uk/epsom/) and then follow Chalk Lane into the centre of Epsom. There are frequent trains to Waterloo, London Bridge and Victoria.
Total distance is just under 13 miles; total ascent 800 ft. Chalk underfoot but with a chance of mud in places. You’ll need to be happy with a pace 2.5 to 3 mph. Bring a packed lunch and plenty of water. Weather forecast is cloudy with a chance of light rain; max. temp. 11 degrees.
You might wish to join me on this moderate walk through typical undulating, wooded Kentish countryside. Nothing too hilly.
The lunchtime stop will be in West Peckham where there is a community run pub called The Swan on the Green which is very good but pricey. There is also a church where we can eat a packed lunch .
The second half of the walk is mainly through through Mereworth Woods before emerging into Borough Green.
Transport:
Buy a return ticket to Yalding.
Take the 09.25 Ramsgate bound train From Charing Cross to Paddock Wood. This train also stops at Waterloo East and London Bridge.
At Paddock Wood we change onto the 10.33 Maidstone bound train and get off in 7 minutes at Yalding.
Trains back from Borough Green to Charing Cross or Victoria are fast and frequent .
Dan
Contact the Secretary for the address of the meeting.
We'll set off together, but there'll be the option of an 8 mile walk or a longer 11 mile walk at a faster pace.
Details following shortly....
Tony
Start 11am Hackney Wick Station. Finish Woolwich Riverside. 9.5 miles
Sue Sinton Smith
This trip is fully booked, with a waiting list.