Overton to Whitchurch
Length: 17km (10.6 miles) Toughness: 3/10
This is an easy walk down the Test valley that passes many interesting mills, old and new. There are options for shortening the walk in the afternoon.
The suggested lunchtime pub is the Watership Down Inn (01256 892254) in the village of Freefolk, after 7¼ km.
10:15 Exeter St David’s train from Waterloo (Clapham Junction 10:22) arriving Overton at 11:15.
Return trains direct from Whitchurch to Waterloo are at 14:52, 16:52 and 18:52 (journey time 67 mins). If you miss one of these, the alternative to a long wait is to take a train to Andover at 15:20, 17:20 or 19:20 and change there for a fast train to Waterloo (journey time 1 hour 39 mins). Buy an off-peak day return to Whitchurch.
You can find further information and the walk directions
here.
T=swc.53
Sunday, 21 January 2018
Sunday Walk: Rainham to Purfleet or Grays
Rainham to Purfleet or Grays
Length: 12.8km (8 miles) or 16.2km (10.1 miles) Toughness: 2/10
If you’re fed up with winter mud, this is an easy walk on firm surfaces along an atmospheric stretch of the Thames Path just outside London, with alternative options for the afternoon.
After traversing the edge of the RSPB reserve at Rainham Marshes, lunch can be taken at the RSPB Visitor Centre cafe at the far end of the marshes. Those with an interest in birdwatching can then explore the marshes at leisure or join the guided Wildlife Walk starting at 1pm at the Visitor Centre. In either case, you’ll finish the walk with a short 1km stroll to Purfleet station.
If your tastes tend more towards industrial heritage, you can continue along the Thames Path after lunch, passing the Purfleet Heritage and Military Centre (closes 3pm), to proceed to Grays on a challenging route through dramatic industrial landscapes and under the soaring Dartford bridge. On the way is a location used in ‘Four Weddings and a Funeral’ and another associated with Dracula as well as an amazing exhibition of graffiti art. The extensive fly-tipping that formerly blighted part of this stretch appears to have been removed and there have been no recent reports of it resuming.
10:19 Grays train from Fenchurch Street (Limehouse 10:23, West Ham 10:28) arriving Rainham at 10:42.
Return trains from Grays to Fenchurch Street are at xx:00 (Purfleet xx:06), xx:11, xx:30 (Purfleet xx:36) and xx:41 (journey time 37 mins). Buy an off-peak day return to Purfleet or Grays, according to your preferred destination.
You can find further information and the walk directions for both options:
Rainham Marshes & Purfleet, and
Rainham to Grays.
T=swc.203 T=swc.172
Length: 12.8km (8 miles) or 16.2km (10.1 miles) Toughness: 2/10
If you’re fed up with winter mud, this is an easy walk on firm surfaces along an atmospheric stretch of the Thames Path just outside London, with alternative options for the afternoon.
After traversing the edge of the RSPB reserve at Rainham Marshes, lunch can be taken at the RSPB Visitor Centre cafe at the far end of the marshes. Those with an interest in birdwatching can then explore the marshes at leisure or join the guided Wildlife Walk starting at 1pm at the Visitor Centre. In either case, you’ll finish the walk with a short 1km stroll to Purfleet station.
If your tastes tend more towards industrial heritage, you can continue along the Thames Path after lunch, passing the Purfleet Heritage and Military Centre (closes 3pm), to proceed to Grays on a challenging route through dramatic industrial landscapes and under the soaring Dartford bridge. On the way is a location used in ‘Four Weddings and a Funeral’ and another associated with Dracula as well as an amazing exhibition of graffiti art. The extensive fly-tipping that formerly blighted part of this stretch appears to have been removed and there have been no recent reports of it resuming.
10:19 Grays train from Fenchurch Street (Limehouse 10:23, West Ham 10:28) arriving Rainham at 10:42.
Return trains from Grays to Fenchurch Street are at xx:00 (Purfleet xx:06), xx:11, xx:30 (Purfleet xx:36) and xx:41 (journey time 37 mins). Buy an off-peak day return to Purfleet or Grays, according to your preferred destination.
You can find further information and the walk directions for both options:
Rainham Marshes & Purfleet, and
Rainham to Grays.
T=swc.203 T=swc.172
Saturday, 20 January 2018
Saturday Walk – Headley Heath & the North Downs (Tadworth Circular)
Extra Walk 139a – Tadworth Circular (short walk)
Length: 14¼ km (8.9 miles). Toughness: About 3/10
10:20 Tattenham Corner train from London Bridge (Norwood Jct 10:33, East Croydon 10:37, etc), arriving Tadworth at 11:06. Tadworth is in TfL Zone 6 so you can use Oyster, contactless or a Travelcard.
Trains back from Tadworth are at xx:22 & xx:52 (4 minutes earlier from Tattenham Corner: see below). Change at East Croydon for Clapham Jct or Victoria.
The longest version of this walk includes some stiff climbs up White Hill and through Box Hill Country Park – and no-one will stop anyone who wants to take these on – but this shorter version cutting across Headley Heath seems like a more suitable walk for winter. Lunch is at a large and not usually too crowded pub on Boxhill Road, The Tree; on the short walk you should get there just before 1pm.
You also have some options for extending this walk after lunch. The walk notes describe a longer and hillier alternative route along the North Downs Way and across Banstead Heath, making a total walk of about 17 km (5/10). In addition, after your tea stop* in Walton-on-the-Hill you could substitute one of the endings of the Merstham to Tattenham Corner Walk, finishing with fine views of the London skyline from Epsom Downs Racecourse (an extra 3-4½ km).
* The walk notes suggest a couple of pubs in this village but you could also check out the Grey Dove Village Café (01737-814171) in the parade of shops overlooking Mere Pond, serving home-made cakes, pastries and cream teas until about 4.30pm.
You'll need to download the walk directions from the Tadworth Circular Walk page. T=swc.139.a
Length: 14¼ km (8.9 miles). Toughness: About 3/10
10:20 Tattenham Corner train from London Bridge (Norwood Jct 10:33, East Croydon 10:37, etc), arriving Tadworth at 11:06. Tadworth is in TfL Zone 6 so you can use Oyster, contactless or a Travelcard.
Trains back from Tadworth are at xx:22 & xx:52 (4 minutes earlier from Tattenham Corner: see below). Change at East Croydon for Clapham Jct or Victoria.
The longest version of this walk includes some stiff climbs up White Hill and through Box Hill Country Park – and no-one will stop anyone who wants to take these on – but this shorter version cutting across Headley Heath seems like a more suitable walk for winter. Lunch is at a large and not usually too crowded pub on Boxhill Road, The Tree; on the short walk you should get there just before 1pm.
You also have some options for extending this walk after lunch. The walk notes describe a longer and hillier alternative route along the North Downs Way and across Banstead Heath, making a total walk of about 17 km (5/10). In addition, after your tea stop* in Walton-on-the-Hill you could substitute one of the endings of the Merstham to Tattenham Corner Walk, finishing with fine views of the London skyline from Epsom Downs Racecourse (an extra 3-4½ km).
* The walk notes suggest a couple of pubs in this village but you could also check out the Grey Dove Village Café (01737-814171) in the parade of shops overlooking Mere Pond, serving home-made cakes, pastries and cream teas until about 4.30pm.
You'll need to download the walk directions from the Tadworth Circular Walk page. T=swc.139.a
Saturday walk - Hassocks to Lewes - a South Downs classic
Hassocks to Lewes (Book 1, walk 29)
Length: 18km (11.2 miles)
Toughness: 4 out of 10: one big climb to start, another if you go to the pub for lunch: otherwise gently undulating or downhill
9.20 train from Victoria (9.26 Clapham Junction, 9.36 East Croydon) to Hassocks, arriving 10.07. (A lovely quick train - this is basically the Brighton Fast with a Hassocks stop)
Buy a day return to Lewes (this is valid via Brighton and so therefore must be valid via Hassocks, right?...)
For walk directions click here. For GPX click here.
I am taking a gamble on the weather in picking this walk at this time of year. If there are gale force winds and driving rain it has not a shred of shelter and will be mainly attractive for those practising for their Scottish holiday in May..... Low clouds would also hide the magnificent views that make it worthwhile. (In fairness, both of these things are true in June too.) But if there is reasonably fine weather there is little better than a bracing stride along the South Downs Ridge, with all England spreading away to the north. Blow away the winter cobwebs, focus your mind onto summer walks to come, look down on fields and villages and feel detached from the humdrum cares of the world...
The chalk downs are also relatively mud-free in winter - the word to stress being "relatively". Hopefully no gloopy morasses and with (almost?) no stiles either, the miles should fly by. The one thing to watch out for are paths descending off the downs, particularly when going down to Plumpton: thin mud on chalk can be slippy. Take care.
It is a VERY long time since I went to the Half Moon in Plumpton, the recommended lunch stop, but it seems to still be there. Sandwichers can miss out this ascent and descent. In Lewes as well as the tea places mentioned at the top of the high street you may also find others at the bottom in the pedestrianised bit by the river...
Trains back are at 16 and 54 past today. This is not quite the normal service and journey times are 5-10 minutes longer than usual (so 1hr 10 mins or so), but nothing tragic. T=1.29
Length: 18km (11.2 miles)
Toughness: 4 out of 10: one big climb to start, another if you go to the pub for lunch: otherwise gently undulating or downhill
9.20 train from Victoria (9.26 Clapham Junction, 9.36 East Croydon) to Hassocks, arriving 10.07. (A lovely quick train - this is basically the Brighton Fast with a Hassocks stop)
Buy a day return to Lewes (this is valid via Brighton and so therefore must be valid via Hassocks, right?...)
For walk directions click here. For GPX click here.
I am taking a gamble on the weather in picking this walk at this time of year. If there are gale force winds and driving rain it has not a shred of shelter and will be mainly attractive for those practising for their Scottish holiday in May..... Low clouds would also hide the magnificent views that make it worthwhile. (In fairness, both of these things are true in June too.) But if there is reasonably fine weather there is little better than a bracing stride along the South Downs Ridge, with all England spreading away to the north. Blow away the winter cobwebs, focus your mind onto summer walks to come, look down on fields and villages and feel detached from the humdrum cares of the world...
The chalk downs are also relatively mud-free in winter - the word to stress being "relatively". Hopefully no gloopy morasses and with (almost?) no stiles either, the miles should fly by. The one thing to watch out for are paths descending off the downs, particularly when going down to Plumpton: thin mud on chalk can be slippy. Take care.
It is a VERY long time since I went to the Half Moon in Plumpton, the recommended lunch stop, but it seems to still be there. Sandwichers can miss out this ascent and descent. In Lewes as well as the tea places mentioned at the top of the high street you may also find others at the bottom in the pedestrianised bit by the river...
Trains back are at 16 and 54 past today. This is not quite the normal service and journey times are 5-10 minutes longer than usual (so 1hr 10 mins or so), but nothing tragic. T=1.29
Saturday Walk A [mud-free] exploration of Hayling Island -- Portsmouth Harbour to Havant or Emsworth
SWC 179: Historic Portsmouth Harbour; a ferry
ride and the exploration of Hayling Island T=swc.179
Train: Take the 9:00 AM Portsmouth Harbour train from London Waterloo to its final destination, arriving at 10:33 AM. There are a number of return trains from both Havant and Emsworth each hour, the faster ones (generally to Waterloo) from Havant are at 17:04; 17:26; 17:30 (Victoria); 17:40; 18:04; 18:34; 18:40; 19:04; 19:34; 19:40; 20:04; 20:34; 20:40 and 21:04 and from Emsworth (requiring a change at Havant) 17:00; 17:15; 18:15; 19:15 and 20:20. Buy a day return to Portsmouth Harbour.
Distance: 13 miles (20.9 in new money) or, to Emswoth, 14 miles (22.5 in new money)
Difficulty: 1 out of 10
Admittedly, this walk may not be considered entirely a country walk, but, in the midst of mud season, it should make for a varied and hopefully interesting mud-free day. The route starts in historic Portsmouth harbour and explores a number of interesting historical points along the seafront promenade to Eastney from where you catch the Hayling Island ferry (£5:50). During the winter, the ferry runs hourly on the hour, I would suggest aiming for the 1:00 PM ferry.
Once on Hayling Island there is a choice of routes after lunch, but, the recommended one would be to follow a disused railway line alongside Langstone Harbour eventually back to the mainland along a causeway. Once across the causeway, a further choice presents itself – either following the suggested route to Havant or veering right to follow the Solent Way for a slightly longer map-based route to Emsworth. More information on the walk can be found here. There do not appear to be detailed written instructions for this walk, so I would suggest printing the information page which describes a suggested route (and some options) and the OS map from the website. Notwithstanding the lack of written text, the route looks fairly straight forward….
There are two options for lunch: the Ferryboat Inn (https://www.classicinns.co.uk/theferryboatinnhaylingisland/food-and-drink/ 02392 463 459) on the Hayling Island side of the ferry or the Inn on the Beach (www.innonthebeach.co.uk/foodanddrink/ 02392 460 043) a further 2 kilometers along at the main decision point. Tea or late afternoon refreshments can be had at the Royal Oak just across the causeway or numerous places in either Havant or Emsworth.
Enjoy the walk!
Train: Take the 9:00 AM Portsmouth Harbour train from London Waterloo to its final destination, arriving at 10:33 AM. There are a number of return trains from both Havant and Emsworth each hour, the faster ones (generally to Waterloo) from Havant are at 17:04; 17:26; 17:30 (Victoria); 17:40; 18:04; 18:34; 18:40; 19:04; 19:34; 19:40; 20:04; 20:34; 20:40 and 21:04 and from Emsworth (requiring a change at Havant) 17:00; 17:15; 18:15; 19:15 and 20:20. Buy a day return to Portsmouth Harbour.
Distance: 13 miles (20.9 in new money) or, to Emswoth, 14 miles (22.5 in new money)
Difficulty: 1 out of 10
Admittedly, this walk may not be considered entirely a country walk, but, in the midst of mud season, it should make for a varied and hopefully interesting mud-free day. The route starts in historic Portsmouth harbour and explores a number of interesting historical points along the seafront promenade to Eastney from where you catch the Hayling Island ferry (£5:50). During the winter, the ferry runs hourly on the hour, I would suggest aiming for the 1:00 PM ferry.
Once on Hayling Island there is a choice of routes after lunch, but, the recommended one would be to follow a disused railway line alongside Langstone Harbour eventually back to the mainland along a causeway. Once across the causeway, a further choice presents itself – either following the suggested route to Havant or veering right to follow the Solent Way for a slightly longer map-based route to Emsworth. More information on the walk can be found here. There do not appear to be detailed written instructions for this walk, so I would suggest printing the information page which describes a suggested route (and some options) and the OS map from the website. Notwithstanding the lack of written text, the route looks fairly straight forward….
There are two options for lunch: the Ferryboat Inn (https://www.classicinns.co.uk/theferryboatinnhaylingisland/food-and-drink/ 02392 463 459) on the Hayling Island side of the ferry or the Inn on the Beach (www.innonthebeach.co.uk/foodanddrink/ 02392 460 043) a further 2 kilometers along at the main decision point. Tea or late afternoon refreshments can be had at the Royal Oak just across the causeway or numerous places in either Havant or Emsworth.
Enjoy the walk!
Friday, 19 January 2018
ABBA - Super Troupers at Southbank Centre (Royal Festival Hall)
Are you feeling the January Blues? Come and see this exhibition about ABBA and its music will keep you joyful for the rest of the month.
Post exhibition F&B will be at Doggett's Coat & Badge (the pub overlooking the river),
1 Blackfriars Bridge, 20 mins walk from Southbank Centre. Click here to see the menu and location. A table for 8 has been booked in case it is busy.
1 Blackfriars Bridge, 20 mins walk from Southbank Centre. Click here to see the menu and location. A table for 8 has been booked in case it is busy.
Wednesday, 17 January 2018
Wednesday Walk: Wanborough to Godalming - Watts Gallery and Chapel, and along the River Wey
Book 1, Walk 2 - Wanborough to Godalming
Length: 12.9 km (8 miles)
Toughness: 3 out of 10 (more if muddy)
London Waterloo: 10-15 hrs Haslemere service. Clapham Junction 10-22 hrs
Arrive Guildford: 10-50 hrs Change trains
Leave Guildford: 11-00 hrs Ascot service
Arrive Wanborough: 11-06 hrs
Return: Godalming to Waterloo: 15-25, 15-51, 16-25, 16-38, 16-51, 17-25, 17-40 and 17-51 hrs
Rail ticket: Buy a day return to Wanborough plus a single from Godalming to Guildford
This short walk has lots of variety and sights and it usually makes for a lovely winter's outing.
In the morning a new route avoids a waterlogged path as you head over fields towards Wanborough Church (worth a visit), Your walk then continues steadily uphill along a bridleway over-arched by evergreens before you cross the A31 road and head down through Greyfriars Vineyard. You are soon on the North Downs Way as you head for Watts Gallery (worth a visit) with its much improved tea room, a possible early lunch stop. Just down the road from the Gallery is Watts Chapel, again, well worth a visit.
You now head for the village of Compton, via a farm and along the edge of a wood (which can be muddy), for the lunch pub stop on today's walk, the usually excellent and comfy Withies Inn Booking ahead is strongly advised - I prefer the informal bar area to the restaurant with its low ceiling, which I find cramped and claustrophobic. Withies Inn: 01483-421158. Your e.t.a will depend on the number of sights you visit in the morning.
After lunch you have a pleasant route over fields and through woodland, then along an undulating path above and beside the River Wey, before you drop down to walk beside the river all the way into Godalming. The preferred tea stop of late is the upstairs room in Cafe Mila, in Angel Court, just off the High Street. After tea you have a ten minute walk to Godalming station, for your journey home.
This is a lovely little walk - and so Recommended.
T=1.2
Walk Directions are here: L=1.2
Length: 12.9 km (8 miles)
Toughness: 3 out of 10 (more if muddy)
London Waterloo: 10-15 hrs Haslemere service. Clapham Junction 10-22 hrs
Arrive Guildford: 10-50 hrs Change trains
Leave Guildford: 11-00 hrs Ascot service
Arrive Wanborough: 11-06 hrs
Return: Godalming to Waterloo: 15-25, 15-51, 16-25, 16-38, 16-51, 17-25, 17-40 and 17-51 hrs
Rail ticket: Buy a day return to Wanborough plus a single from Godalming to Guildford
This short walk has lots of variety and sights and it usually makes for a lovely winter's outing.
In the morning a new route avoids a waterlogged path as you head over fields towards Wanborough Church (worth a visit), Your walk then continues steadily uphill along a bridleway over-arched by evergreens before you cross the A31 road and head down through Greyfriars Vineyard. You are soon on the North Downs Way as you head for Watts Gallery (worth a visit) with its much improved tea room, a possible early lunch stop. Just down the road from the Gallery is Watts Chapel, again, well worth a visit.
You now head for the village of Compton, via a farm and along the edge of a wood (which can be muddy), for the lunch pub stop on today's walk, the usually excellent and comfy Withies Inn Booking ahead is strongly advised - I prefer the informal bar area to the restaurant with its low ceiling, which I find cramped and claustrophobic. Withies Inn: 01483-421158. Your e.t.a will depend on the number of sights you visit in the morning.
After lunch you have a pleasant route over fields and through woodland, then along an undulating path above and beside the River Wey, before you drop down to walk beside the river all the way into Godalming. The preferred tea stop of late is the upstairs room in Cafe Mila, in Angel Court, just off the High Street. After tea you have a ten minute walk to Godalming station, for your journey home.
This is a lovely little walk - and so Recommended.
T=1.2
Walk Directions are here: L=1.2
Sunday, 14 January 2018
Sunday Walk: Saunderton Circular via Lacey Green (or on to Princes Risborough)
Book 2 walk 2 + extra download
13.25 km. 8.25 miles approx
4/10
You got two choices today, a short walk looping back to Saunderton station (8.25 miles), or a short walk ending in Princes Risborough (8.1 miles).
The first choice, a hybrid of the Saunderton via Bledlow and Saunderton to Princes Risborough walks, doesn’t visit either Bledlow or Princes Risborough. You follow the alternative directions along the east side of the Saunderton valley to lunch in Lacey Green. Later, you join the shorter version of the main walk for the return to Saunderton along the west side. This combination is not exactly rocket science but you will need the connecting information below. (After the scientific-looking rocket).
The second choice, finishing in Princes Risborough, also involves both sets of instructions but you follow them as intended, remembering to follow the Princes Risborough directions from Bledlow.
Trains: Get the 10:13 Aylesbury train from Marylebone arriving Saunderton 10:53.
Return from Saunderton at xx:50.
A return to Princes Risborough is only a few pence more than one to Saunderton and covers both endings.
If you decide to finish in Princes Risborough, trains return from there at xx:20 and xx:45.
Lunch: The Whip in Lacey Green 01844 344060. Phoning suggested. The Whip has a good choice of beer, some unusual ciders, and last time, people seemed happy with their food. You reach here a little early, about 12. I considered a later train but reckoned you'd rather get round before dark.
The Boot 01494 481499 is a later alternative for the circular walk. A bit too late, some say. They serve food 12-6.
Anyone deciding on the Princes Risborough ending has another late option, the Lions of Bledlow 01844 343345, serving till 3.
Tea: The Golden Cross pub does tea, cakes, and stuff and is handy for Saunderton station. It’s on the main road, just past the station turn-in.
The Bird in Hand pub is not far from Princes Risborough station (at 47 Station Road). The "stay on the road" directions take you there. I don't think they do tea.
Directions: available here.
You need two sets of directions:
- the main book 2 walk (on the “download walk” button), and
- the alternative walk (on the ”finish in Princes Risborough” button. - note that this also includes the alternative start).
 |
| Now, pay attention! |
- To follow the short walk back to Saunderton, at point [3] itself, (literally the next gate), switch to the short walk directions at the end of the main walk text (i.e. turn left along a bridleway instead of going straight on through the “kissing gate with a three-armed signpost”).
- To head for Princes Risborough, you do go through that kissing gate and follow the main walk on into Bledlow, where you switch back to the Princes Risborough ending. T=2.2.hybrid
Sunday Walk: Westhumble Circular
Westhumble Circular Book 2, walk 14b
Length: 13.3km (8.3 miles) Toughness: 4 out of 10
The Polesden Lacey estate is the highlight of this walk - a landscape of hidden valleys and pretty woodland. This option ventures into a quiet valley not visited by the main walk. After Polesden Lacey, the route follows the main directions back to Westhumble. (The station there, "Box Hill & Westhumble" is referred to as Box Hill in the text).
Trains from Victoria:
Southern services from Victoria are cheapest.
From Victoria the 9:40 (Clapham Jct. 9:48) gets to Box Hill station at 10:36.
Return from Box Hill to Victoria at xx:18 and xx:48.
Return from Dorking to Victoria at xx:15 and xx:45.
Trains from Waterloo:
For a few dollars more, you could get the 10:02 from Waterloo (Clapham Jct. 10:12) arriving Box Hill at 10:50.
Return to Waterloo from Box Hill at xx:10 or from Dorking at xx:07.
Lunch: is at Polesden Lacey. The Granary Cafe there is accessible without paying the entrance fee.
(Unless you're an NT member, you have to pay to visit the house & gardens).
Tea: Denbies Vineyard, serves teas, closing at 4:30. Pilgrim Cycles at Box Hill station have a cafe that closes at 4.There's also the Stepping Stones pub nearby.
Directions can be found here. There have been substantial changes since the book, so use the online version. Start at "Box Hill station to Polesden Lacey" following paras 58-99 then 109 to 141. A final section diverts anyone so inclined towards Dorking.
T=2.14.b
Length: 13.3km (8.3 miles) Toughness: 4 out of 10
The Polesden Lacey estate is the highlight of this walk - a landscape of hidden valleys and pretty woodland. This option ventures into a quiet valley not visited by the main walk. After Polesden Lacey, the route follows the main directions back to Westhumble. (The station there, "Box Hill & Westhumble" is referred to as Box Hill in the text).
Trains from Victoria:
Southern services from Victoria are cheapest.
From Victoria the 9:40 (Clapham Jct. 9:48) gets to Box Hill station at 10:36.
Return from Box Hill to Victoria at xx:18 and xx:48.
Return from Dorking to Victoria at xx:15 and xx:45.
Trains from Waterloo:
For a few dollars more, you could get the 10:02 from Waterloo (Clapham Jct. 10:12) arriving Box Hill at 10:50.
Return to Waterloo from Box Hill at xx:10 or from Dorking at xx:07.
Lunch: is at Polesden Lacey. The Granary Cafe there is accessible without paying the entrance fee.
(Unless you're an NT member, you have to pay to visit the house & gardens).
Tea: Denbies Vineyard, serves teas, closing at 4:30. Pilgrim Cycles at Box Hill station have a cafe that closes at 4.There's also the Stepping Stones pub nearby.
Directions can be found here. There have been substantial changes since the book, so use the online version. Start at "Box Hill station to Polesden Lacey" following paras 58-99 then 109 to 141. A final section diverts anyone so inclined towards Dorking.
T=2.14.b
Saturday, 13 January 2018
Great Missenden Circular
CW2 4c Great Missenden Circular
Length: 16 km (10 miles). Toughness: 3/10
Catch the 10:27 from London Marylebone arrives Great Missenden 11:08.
Return trains: xx:02 xx:32 until 18:02 then xx:02 until 22:02.
Allow sufficient time to buy your ticket at Marylebone. Recently there have been queues for the ticket office and machines caused by the number of passengers travelling up to Bicester Village.
This is a rarely walked option that combines the initial section of CW1 Walk 5 up to [3] with a link section detailed in these Alternate walk directions for a Great Missenden Circular walk (this text also includes the CW1 Walk 5 directions up to [3]), to then link up with the CW2 Walk 4.
It may all seem a little convoluted; plan is to - after checking the directions on Saturday - to merge the 4b and 4c options into the CW2 Walk 4 pdf download.
Download directions required:
For the first section of the walk up to [4] in CW2 Walk 4 [link to option 4c].
Second section of the walk from [4] in CW2 Walk 4 [Link to CW2 Walk 4]
Lunch at Cock & Rabbit, The Lee. T=2.4c
Length: 16 km (10 miles). Toughness: 3/10
Catch the 10:27 from London Marylebone arrives Great Missenden 11:08.
Return trains: xx:02 xx:32 until 18:02 then xx:02 until 22:02.
Allow sufficient time to buy your ticket at Marylebone. Recently there have been queues for the ticket office and machines caused by the number of passengers travelling up to Bicester Village.
This is a rarely walked option that combines the initial section of CW1 Walk 5 up to [3] with a link section detailed in these Alternate walk directions for a Great Missenden Circular walk (this text also includes the CW1 Walk 5 directions up to [3]), to then link up with the CW2 Walk 4.
It may all seem a little convoluted; plan is to - after checking the directions on Saturday - to merge the 4b and 4c options into the CW2 Walk 4 pdf download.
Download directions required:
For the first section of the walk up to [4] in CW2 Walk 4 [link to option 4c].
Second section of the walk from [4] in CW2 Walk 4 [Link to CW2 Walk 4]
Lunch at Cock & Rabbit, The Lee. T=2.4c
Saturday walk - Horsley to West Byfleet, with optional Thames extension
Horsley to West Byfleet....or Weybridge
Length: 15.4 km (9.6 miles), with possible 3-4 mile extension to Weybridge
Toughness: 3 out of 10
10.03 train from Waterloo (10.12 Clapham Junction, 10.19 Wimbledon) to Horsley, arriving 10.48.
For walk directions click here, for GPS click here
A day return to Guildford would definitely cover both outward and return journeys. Whether you could persuade the sometimes stern SWT train guards that a Horsley return was valid from West Byfleet I do not know....
This walk made a great pre-Christmas outing in 2016, despite there being a missing footbridge over the river, which we got around some way or other: I forget exactly how: but it may even be fixed by now. I remember a pleasant mix of scenery, including heathland, fields and woods, and despite the map showing a proximity to a motorway at one point, not much traffic noise.
There is a wonderful riverside pub, the Anchor, 12.7km (7.8 miles) into the walk, if you can hold off your hunger pangs that long. It is large and popular but serves food all afternoon and so getting there after the main lunchtime rush may be no disadvantage. The numerically-gifted among you will be aware that it is very close to the end of the walk, so you also don't need to fret about leaving much before dusk. For the same reason this pub would make a good tea stop.
Otherwise, there is the Black Swan reached by a short diversion some 3 miles into the walk at Martyr's Green: I don't know this establishment but from its website it looks to have nice food.
From memory West Byfleet has a cafe or two.
EXTENSION: Judging from the turnout on last week's Knockholt to Otford walk the standard walk may be enough for many of you, but for those wanting a longer walk, the suggestion is to switch at West Byfleet to the West Byfleet to Hampton Court walk and walk the first three miles or so of that to Weybridge. This is an easy walk along canal and riverside paths (though directions, click here, or GPS, click here, might be useful to get you started) and Weybridge has some nice riverside pubs. It is then about a mile to walk through the town to the railway station. No directions provided for this, but Google Maps or passers-by should be able to direct you.
Trains back from West Byfleet are at 27 and 47 past (there are also trains at 06 and 36 past, but these are stopping services, arriving at Waterloo only 5 minutes before the next fast train).
Trains back from Weybridge are at 06 and 36 (slightly faster) or 12 and 42 (slightly slower). T=3.214
Length: 15.4 km (9.6 miles), with possible 3-4 mile extension to Weybridge
Toughness: 3 out of 10
10.03 train from Waterloo (10.12 Clapham Junction, 10.19 Wimbledon) to Horsley, arriving 10.48.
For walk directions click here, for GPS click here
A day return to Guildford would definitely cover both outward and return journeys. Whether you could persuade the sometimes stern SWT train guards that a Horsley return was valid from West Byfleet I do not know....
This walk made a great pre-Christmas outing in 2016, despite there being a missing footbridge over the river, which we got around some way or other: I forget exactly how: but it may even be fixed by now. I remember a pleasant mix of scenery, including heathland, fields and woods, and despite the map showing a proximity to a motorway at one point, not much traffic noise.
There is a wonderful riverside pub, the Anchor, 12.7km (7.8 miles) into the walk, if you can hold off your hunger pangs that long. It is large and popular but serves food all afternoon and so getting there after the main lunchtime rush may be no disadvantage. The numerically-gifted among you will be aware that it is very close to the end of the walk, so you also don't need to fret about leaving much before dusk. For the same reason this pub would make a good tea stop.
Otherwise, there is the Black Swan reached by a short diversion some 3 miles into the walk at Martyr's Green: I don't know this establishment but from its website it looks to have nice food.
From memory West Byfleet has a cafe or two.
EXTENSION: Judging from the turnout on last week's Knockholt to Otford walk the standard walk may be enough for many of you, but for those wanting a longer walk, the suggestion is to switch at West Byfleet to the West Byfleet to Hampton Court walk and walk the first three miles or so of that to Weybridge. This is an easy walk along canal and riverside paths (though directions, click here, or GPS, click here, might be useful to get you started) and Weybridge has some nice riverside pubs. It is then about a mile to walk through the town to the railway station. No directions provided for this, but Google Maps or passers-by should be able to direct you.
Trains back from West Byfleet are at 27 and 47 past (there are also trains at 06 and 36 past, but these are stopping services, arriving at Waterloo only 5 minutes before the next fast train).
Trains back from Weybridge are at 06 and 36 (slightly faster) or 12 and 42 (slightly slower). T=3.214
Saturday Walk: Leigh to Tunbridge Wells
Leigh to Tunbridge Wells - Book1 Walk 15
11.7 miles / 18.9km
Penshurst Place, the Medway Valley, and Tunbridge Wells
Trains: Take the 09:39 from London Victoria (09:56 East Croydon), arriving at Leigh at 10:34.
Return trains to London Bridge from Tunbridge Wells at xx29/59. Note that there are no trains to Charing Cross today due to engineering works.
Buy a day return to Tunbridge Wells.
Lunch: The Spotted Dog (tel 01892 870 253) at Smart's Hill, phone first if you would like to sit inside. An alternative nearby is the Bottle House Inn (01892 870306) on Coldharbour Road.
Tunbridge Wells has plentiful teashops in the Pantiles area and the High Street (Juliet's has nice cakes). Or a five-minute walk past the station up Mount Pleasant Road will bring you to the splendid Opera House, now a JD Wetherspoon pub.
T=1.15
11.7 miles / 18.9km
Penshurst Place, the Medway Valley, and Tunbridge Wells
Trains: Take the 09:39 from London Victoria (09:56 East Croydon), arriving at Leigh at 10:34.
Return trains to London Bridge from Tunbridge Wells at xx29/59. Note that there are no trains to Charing Cross today due to engineering works.
Buy a day return to Tunbridge Wells.
Lunch: The Spotted Dog (tel 01892 870 253) at Smart's Hill, phone first if you would like to sit inside. An alternative nearby is the Bottle House Inn (01892 870306) on Coldharbour Road.
Tunbridge Wells has plentiful teashops in the Pantiles area and the High Street (Juliet's has nice cakes). Or a five-minute walk past the station up Mount Pleasant Road will bring you to the splendid Opera House, now a JD Wetherspoon pub.
T=1.15
Wednesday, 10 January 2018
Wednesday Walk: Amersham to Great Missenden - The Chilterns, Beech Woods, Toby's Lane and Little Missenden
Book 1, Walk 5 (R): Amersham to Great Missenden
Length: 16.3 km (10.1 miles)
Toughness: 4 out of 10 (more if Toby's Lane is muddy)
Either
London Marylebone: 09-57 hrs Aylesbury Vale Parkway service
Arrive Amersham: 10-32 hrs
Or
LT underground Baker Street: 09-33 hrs Amersham service
Arrive Amersham: 10-24 hrs
and wait at station for arrival of Aylesbury train (10-32 hrs)
Return: Great Missenden to Marylebone: 16-02, 16-32, 17-02, 17-29, 18-04 and 18-35 hrs
Rail ticket: a day return to Great Missenden (one stop beyond Amersham in travel zone 9) making use of any travel card you might possess.
A year ago we tried out this walk "backwards" on a Wednesday in January, and as it worked well, let's try it again !
From the railway station in Amersham New Town we head down through Parsonage Wood to the Old Town where we soon head uphill along the edge of a vast field (Gore Hill) to Coleshill. Onwards then to Winchmore Hill and Penn. I suggest we by-pass the two (very good) pubs in Penn and proceed through Penn Wood to Beamond End which soon connects with Toby's Lane, a long, potentially muddy or waterlogged way which heads due north between farms and farmland.This lane eventually drops down to the pretty village of Little Missenden, where we will stop for a late lunch at the pleasant Red Lion pub ('phoning ahead advised - 01494-862876 - e.t.a 13-20 hrs).
After lunch you head through woods and over fields and through a stud farm before a stretch over fields takes you to the outskirts of Great Missenden.
For tea in the High Street you have a choice of the popular Cross Keys pub, or Cafe Twit (part of the Roald Dahl Museum), or Matildas Cafe - all are close to the railway station for your journey home.
T=1.5
Tips on Walking Backwards here
Walk Directions here L=1.5
Length: 16.3 km (10.1 miles)
Toughness: 4 out of 10 (more if Toby's Lane is muddy)
Either
London Marylebone: 09-57 hrs Aylesbury Vale Parkway service
Arrive Amersham: 10-32 hrs
Or
LT underground Baker Street: 09-33 hrs Amersham service
Arrive Amersham: 10-24 hrs
and wait at station for arrival of Aylesbury train (10-32 hrs)
Return: Great Missenden to Marylebone: 16-02, 16-32, 17-02, 17-29, 18-04 and 18-35 hrs
Rail ticket: a day return to Great Missenden (one stop beyond Amersham in travel zone 9) making use of any travel card you might possess.
A year ago we tried out this walk "backwards" on a Wednesday in January, and as it worked well, let's try it again !
From the railway station in Amersham New Town we head down through Parsonage Wood to the Old Town where we soon head uphill along the edge of a vast field (Gore Hill) to Coleshill. Onwards then to Winchmore Hill and Penn. I suggest we by-pass the two (very good) pubs in Penn and proceed through Penn Wood to Beamond End which soon connects with Toby's Lane, a long, potentially muddy or waterlogged way which heads due north between farms and farmland.This lane eventually drops down to the pretty village of Little Missenden, where we will stop for a late lunch at the pleasant Red Lion pub ('phoning ahead advised - 01494-862876 - e.t.a 13-20 hrs).
After lunch you head through woods and over fields and through a stud farm before a stretch over fields takes you to the outskirts of Great Missenden.
For tea in the High Street you have a choice of the popular Cross Keys pub, or Cafe Twit (part of the Roald Dahl Museum), or Matildas Cafe - all are close to the railway station for your journey home.
T=1.5
Tips on Walking Backwards here
Walk Directions here L=1.5
Tuesday, 9 January 2018
Evening walk - Saunderton via West Wycombe
CW2 3a - Saunderton via West Wycombe
Length: 9.6km (6 miles)
Catch the 18:24 train from London Marylebone, arrives Saunderton 19:08.
Return trains: 21:53, 22:54
Will stop for a drink / meal half way into the walk at West Wycombe.
T=2.3.a
Length: 9.6km (6 miles)
Catch the 18:24 train from London Marylebone, arrives Saunderton 19:08.
Return trains: 21:53, 22:54
Will stop for a drink / meal half way into the walk at West Wycombe.
T=2.3.a
Sunday, 7 January 2018
Sunday Walk – Arcadian Thames (Richmond to Hampton Court)
Extra Walk 46 (variation) – Richmond to Hampton Court
Length: About 12½ km (8 miles). Toughness: 1/10
Meet in the booking hall of Richmond station at 11:00. Either take the 10:39 Reading train from Waterloo (Vauxhall 10:43, Clapham Jct 10:49, Putney 10:53), arriving at 10:58; or the Overground or a District line tube (see the TfL site for times). Richmond is in Zone 4.
Trains back from Hampton Court (in Zone 6) leave for Waterloo at xx:05 & xx:35. If you finish at Kingston, trains back from there are also half-hourly at much the same time (xx:04 & xx:34).
The full Extra Walk 46 goes from Wimbledon to Kingston, but Wimbledon Common can be very muddy in winter and this walk's second half along the Thames Path combined with the optional extension to Hampton Court looks more suitable for January.
From Richmond station I suggest crossing over the main road, going through an alleyway to a side street and turning left to reach Richmond Green. Go diagonally across it and down Old Palace Lane to the river. Turn left and simply follow the Thames Path for about 8 km to Kingston. There are plenty of refreshment opportunities in this large town, including several riverside pubs.
Unless you want to finish the walk here, cross Kingston Bridge and keep left on the other side. The walk notes give you the choice of walking through Bushy Park (to the north of the A308) or Hampton Court [Home] Park (to the south). If you take the latter route note that you can no longer get into the Palace Gardens via the back gates, so you have to head back to the main road or (on the other side of the Long Water) find the unobtrusive gate leading out to the river. There are refreshment places in the informal gardens at Hampton Court (free to enter) and near Hampton Court station (on the other side of the river, just across the bridge).
You could probably get by with the brief notes above but more detail can be found on the Wimbledon to Kingston Walk page. T=swc.46.d
Length: About 12½ km (8 miles). Toughness: 1/10
Meet in the booking hall of Richmond station at 11:00. Either take the 10:39 Reading train from Waterloo (Vauxhall 10:43, Clapham Jct 10:49, Putney 10:53), arriving at 10:58; or the Overground or a District line tube (see the TfL site for times). Richmond is in Zone 4.
Trains back from Hampton Court (in Zone 6) leave for Waterloo at xx:05 & xx:35. If you finish at Kingston, trains back from there are also half-hourly at much the same time (xx:04 & xx:34).
The full Extra Walk 46 goes from Wimbledon to Kingston, but Wimbledon Common can be very muddy in winter and this walk's second half along the Thames Path combined with the optional extension to Hampton Court looks more suitable for January.
From Richmond station I suggest crossing over the main road, going through an alleyway to a side street and turning left to reach Richmond Green. Go diagonally across it and down Old Palace Lane to the river. Turn left and simply follow the Thames Path for about 8 km to Kingston. There are plenty of refreshment opportunities in this large town, including several riverside pubs.
Unless you want to finish the walk here, cross Kingston Bridge and keep left on the other side. The walk notes give you the choice of walking through Bushy Park (to the north of the A308) or Hampton Court [Home] Park (to the south). If you take the latter route note that you can no longer get into the Palace Gardens via the back gates, so you have to head back to the main road or (on the other side of the Long Water) find the unobtrusive gate leading out to the river. There are refreshment places in the informal gardens at Hampton Court (free to enter) and near Hampton Court station (on the other side of the river, just across the bridge).
You could probably get by with the brief notes above but more detail can be found on the Wimbledon to Kingston Walk page. T=swc.46.d
Sunday Walk - Thames Vistas and Berkshire Downs via a listed cosy pub: Goring Circular via Streatley Warren
Length: 19.9 km (12.4 mi)
Take the 10.15 Didcot Parkway train from Paddington (Ealing B’way 10.23, then stations to Slough and Reading), arrives Goring & Streatley 11.24.
Or take the later 10.27 Cheltenham Spa train to Reading and change there (11.00/11.11).
Ascent/Descent:
383m; Net Walking Time: ca. 4 ¼ hours
Toughness:
5 out of 10
Take the 10.15 Didcot Parkway train from Paddington (Ealing B’way 10.23, then stations to Slough and Reading), arrives Goring & Streatley 11.24.
Or take the later 10.27 Cheltenham Spa train to Reading and change there (11.00/11.11).
Return
trains: 16.00, 17.05 and 18.00 etc. (from 74 minutes journey
time, change at Reading to shave off 10 minutes or so). Buy a Goring & Streatley return.
Leave
Goring with a pretty vista over the
Thames, before following the
Ridgeway path up on to the Downs. Lunch is at the excellent and cosy Bell
Inn. The route ends with a steep climb and a lovely view over the Thames, before a steep descent, and
a re-crossing of the Thames into Goring.
The
posted (slightly longer) route goes via Streatley
Warren with its sensitive wildlife, access to it is only possible from November
to February.
Lunch: The Bell Inn in Aldworth
[“The Gateway to the Downs”] (Grade II listed, family-owned for over 250 years,
ales only on the pump, 8.6 km/5.3 mi, food to 14.30).
There is also The Four Points Inn a little off route in the same village.
There is also The Four Points Inn a little off route in the same village.
Saturday, 6 January 2018
Saturday Walk - Knockholt to Otford
Knockholt to Otford
T=swc.37
Length: 7.9 miles (12.5km) (or 3.6 miles to end at Shoreham station)
Difficulty: 7 out of 10 (two steep hill climbs: otherwise not over-hilly)
A relatively low cost option for the New year, with Knockholt in zone 6.
T=swc.37
Length: 7.9 miles (12.5km) (or 3.6 miles to end at Shoreham station)
Difficulty: 7 out of 10 (two steep hill climbs: otherwise not over-hilly)
A relatively low cost option for the New year, with Knockholt in zone 6.
This walk approaches the familiar walking territory around Shoreham and Otford in Kent from an unfamiliar angle, passing at first over wooded hills, then climbing up and over a steep ridge to get down to Shoreham.
In the afternoon the route largely reverses the morning of the Otford Circular walk (Book 1, walk 43 on this website), though with one twist that introduces the lovely hidden valley of Magpie Bottom, now a nature reserve, with fine downland flowers and butterflies in the summer.
In winter the walk is not over-afflicted with mud, but the descents into Shoreham and Otford can be a bit slippery. Make sure you have the December 2016 instructions.
Travel: 1005 Sevenoaks train from Charing Cross (1012 London Bridge) arrives 1049. Fastest returns are xx:00 and xx:32 direct to Victoria plus trains at xx:07 and xx:37 via Sevenoaks to Blackfriars or Charing Cross (you need to check what the options are for each train). Tickets are a return to Sevenoaks, but Knockholt is in zone 6, so a single from Otford to zone 6 (St Mary Cray) is an option for some.
Lunch is at Shoreham after 3.2 miles (5.1km), with a number of options.
Tea is 400 metres beyond the station for several choices in Otford itself.
Saturday walk - Chorleywood to Chesham - The Chilterns by Tube
Chorleywood to Chesham
Length: 16km (9.9 miles) - with shortcuts possible - see below
Toughness: 5 out of 10
9.50 Metropolitan Line train from Baker Street to Chorleywood, arriving 10.31
Best ticket: Oyster
For walk directions click here. For GPX click here.
Given that it is never more than a kilometre or two from the Metropolitan Line, this walk is amazingly rural. You get your quota of fine Chilterns views, dipping in and out of a peaceful valley, and see some historic houses en route (fans of The Crown might recognise Chenies Court as the location it used for Winston Churchill's house at Chartwell). Mud there will be, but chalky soils can mean paths are not so afflicted with it. On the other hand mud on chalk can sometimes be a slippery combination, so take care
The Red Lion is the usual choice for lunch but the Bedford Arms down the road is more competitive on price than you might expect. Both are popular, but the walk start time is timed to get you to lunch quite early, hopefully giving more choice of seating. For tea the hippyish Drawingroom is very comfortable and has great cakes, but Caffe Nero et al provide a backstop.
Shortcuts: a shorter morning is possible if you get up a bit late (it is a perfectly pleasant route). There is a minor short cut as you approach lunch if you want to catch up with the main group. And (new feature!) there is now the option of ending in Chalfont & Latimer, though this gives a very short afternoon: useful if the weather turns bad, maybe... For details of all three, see the walk directions.
Trains back from Chesham are at 27 and 57 past the hour T=3.81
Length: 16km (9.9 miles) - with shortcuts possible - see below
Toughness: 5 out of 10
9.50 Metropolitan Line train from Baker Street to Chorleywood, arriving 10.31
Best ticket: Oyster
For walk directions click here. For GPX click here.
Given that it is never more than a kilometre or two from the Metropolitan Line, this walk is amazingly rural. You get your quota of fine Chilterns views, dipping in and out of a peaceful valley, and see some historic houses en route (fans of The Crown might recognise Chenies Court as the location it used for Winston Churchill's house at Chartwell). Mud there will be, but chalky soils can mean paths are not so afflicted with it. On the other hand mud on chalk can sometimes be a slippery combination, so take care
The Red Lion is the usual choice for lunch but the Bedford Arms down the road is more competitive on price than you might expect. Both are popular, but the walk start time is timed to get you to lunch quite early, hopefully giving more choice of seating. For tea the hippyish Drawingroom is very comfortable and has great cakes, but Caffe Nero et al provide a backstop.
Shortcuts: a shorter morning is possible if you get up a bit late (it is a perfectly pleasant route). There is a minor short cut as you approach lunch if you want to catch up with the main group. And (new feature!) there is now the option of ending in Chalfont & Latimer, though this gives a very short afternoon: useful if the weather turns bad, maybe... For details of all three, see the walk directions.
Trains back from Chesham are at 27 and 57 past the hour T=3.81
Saturday Walk - 1066 Country: Battle Circular
Length:
20.3 km (12.7 mi)
Take the 09.15 Hastings train from Charing Cross, (09.18 W’loo East, 09.24 London Bridge, then Orpington, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge etc.), arriving Battle at 10.42
Ascent/Descent:
450 m; Net Walking Time: ca. 5 hours
Toughness:
6 out of 10
Take the 09.15 Hastings train from Charing Cross, (09.18 W’loo East, 09.24 London Bridge, then Orpington, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge etc.), arriving Battle at 10.42
Return
trains:
16.07, 16.44, 17.07, 17.37, 18.07, 18.37, then xx.07 hours (90 mins journey
time).
Long
journey on – possibly – the slowest railway line in the south east to a walk
through 1066-Country, centred on the charming town of Battle. Woods, Valleys,
far views, fairly undulating, but well worth it.
Lunch: The White Hart in Catsfield (4.5 km/2.8 mi), The White Hart (food to 14.30) and the Netherfield Arms (food to14.00), both in Netherfield (13.5 km/8.4 mi).
For tea there’s lots of choice in Battle,
first and foremost The Pilgrim’s Rest, but also plenty of cafés.
Wednesday, 3 January 2018
Wednesday Walk - Book 1 Walk 14: Gomshall to Guildford
Length:
16.2 km (10.1 mi) [longer options possible, see webpage and route map]
Ascent/Descent:
150 m; Net Walking Time: ca. 3 ½ hours
Toughness:
2 out of 10
Take
the 10.39 Tonbridge train from Victoria, (10.45 CJ, 10.57 EC), change Redhill (11.08/11.34)
onto the Reading train, arriving
Gomshall at 11.53. From Reading, take the 10.34
train to Gatwick Airport, changing at Dorking Deepdene.
Fast
return trains: about every 15
minutes.
A
Book 1 walk that hasn’t been posted for nearly 3 years…?
It
starts in Gomshall, passing some of the pleasant buildings on its outskirts,
before crossing fields to the interesting church and village of Shere on the
Tilling Bourne stream, a place packed full of fifteenth and sixteenth-century
timber-framed buildings. Then the walk continues past massive gnarled trees in
Albury Park and through the pine woods of Blackheath Common. From
there, the route follows the Downs Link path. There's an optional detour in the afternoon to
visit Chinthurst Hill Tower, a folly with a view.
The
final stretch is along the River Wey into Guildford for tea.
Lunch: William IV in
Little London, Albury (3.5 km).
Tea: the website recommends the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre or a
Wetherspoon’s by the station, but there are plenty of good pubs just off route by the Castle.
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