This walk includes a good mix of woodland and open countryside, with fine views from the steep-sided hills overlooking the Darent valley.
The walk starts with a stiff climb to the top of Otford Mount and then leaves the Walk 1–43 route to go through the secluded valley of Magpie Bottom, one of several small nature reserves in the area managed by the Kent Wildlife Trust. A steep descent through the wooded White Hill brings you to the attractive village of Shoreham and lunch.
The afternoon section starts with a climb up the other side of the valley into a fine bluebell wood. After a close encounter with a motorway the walk descends via another small nature reserve, Polhill Bank, then an easy stretch along the Darent Valley Path into Otford, another attractive village with many interesting old buildings.
Trains: Get the 0955 Southeastern Ashford train from London Victoria arriving 1032. There are a number of return trains, taking berween 35 minutes and 1 hour. The fares seem to be different, with a return now being double the single fare. The cheapest from the zone 6 boundary is from Swanley.
Lunch: Various pubs in Shoreham. The first place you come to is The Samuel Palmer (01959-525442), a pub / restaurant, conveniant for the picnic spot in the churchyard.
Tea: The Hospices of Hope charity shop; and Sally's Cake Emporium. Also the Bull pub.
