GO London Hiking

This scenic section of the London Loop takes us from the rural edge of Hertfordshire into North London, combining open countryside, woodland trails, and historic parkland for a varied and enjoyable hike.
Starting from Elstree, we pass through peaceful fields and green spaces before entering the expansive grounds of Aldenham Country Park. The route continues through farmland and woodland, leading into Trent Park, a historic estate with wide open landscapes and fascinating wartime history.
We finish at Cockfosters after a rewarding journey that blends countryside calm with a gradual return to London life.

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### 🕓 Schedule & Meeting Info

MEETING TIME: 11:00 – Elstree & Borehamwood Station (outside main entrance)
TRAINS: Thameslink services from Central London
TICKETS: Return from Cockfosters Oyster, Contactless, or Travelcard accepted
HIKE START: 11:00 Elstree & Borehamwood Station
LUNCH: Pack Lunch
HIKE FINISH: 16:00 Cockfosters
RETURN TRAINS:
• Piccadilly Line from Cockfosters (frequent service into Central London)

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### 📏 Hike Details

DISTANCE: 11 miles (18.0 km)
TERRAIN: Woodland trails, parkland, farmland paths, and some paved sections
GRADE: Moderate

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### 🎒 What to Bring

✅ Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
✅ Waterproof jacket & layers for changing weather
✅ Packed lunch, snacks & water
✅ Train ticket / Contactless / Travelcard

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Join me for a long scenic circular hike that explores the rolling landscapes of Sussex & the South Downs, combining iconic landmarks and peaceful valleys. Starting from Polegate, we first visit an ancient tree, a striking natural feature and one of the oldest and most famous trees in Sussex, before continuing onto the impressive Long Man of Wilmington.

From here, we descend into the meandering landscapes of the Cuckmere River valley, before climbing back onto open downland with far-reaching views across the surrounding South Downs. Along the way, we encounter historic churches and heritage buildings that reflect the area’s rural past.
A varied hike with a mix of steady climbs, expansive views, giving hikers a true taste of Sussex and the South Downs varied landscape.

The hike concludes back in Polegate where there will be an optional stop for a well-deserved drink before catching the train back to London.

🕘 Schedule & Meeting Info

• Meeting Time: 08:25 at London Victoria Station near the main ticket office. (Alternatively you can meet us at the hike start point - please DM me so we don’t miss you)
• Train Departure: 08:54 train from London Victoria Station Journey time: 1 Hour 15m.
• Tickets: Purchase a day return ticket to Polegate on the day or in advance. Group save tickets buy on the day.
• Hike Start: 10:10 at PolegateStation
• Estimated finish: Approx 17:00 Polegate Station
• Lunch: Please bring lunch, snacks, water, suitable clothing, and hiking footwear. We will not be stopping at a shop or a pub so have everything you need for the day.
• No dogs allowed except service dogs - please DM me in advance.

# Hike to Polesden Lacey Manor & Denbies Vineyard (Surrey Hills AONB)

Join us for a scenic North Downs hike following good undulating paths through woodland, heathland and meadows in the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. We’ll take in Polesden Lacey Manor, Ranmore Common and Denbies Vineyard before finishing with an optional pub stop near Box Hill & Westhumble Station.

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## 🕘 Schedule & Meeting Info

Meeting Time: 09:10 London Victoria Station next to the information booth platform 12
Trains: London Victoria 09:41 → Box Hill & Westhumble, arriving 10:37
Tickets: Return to Box Hill & Westhumble (buy in advance or on the day)
Lunch: Pack lunch, snacks (lunch at Polesden Lacey)
Hike Start: 10:40 Box Hill & Westhumble Station
Hike Finish: Around 16:30 at Box Hill & Westhumble Station
Return Trains: Every 30–40 minutes
🚆 Train fare is not included – please purchase your own return ticket in advance or on the day.

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## Hike Overview

Grade: Beginner / Intermediate
Distance: 18 km (12 miles)
Ascent: 330 m
Hiking Time: Approx 5 hours
Terrain: Undulating paths through woodland, meadows, heathland & vineyard trails
Pace: Social, steady
Hike Leader: Gary – 📞 07968585224 | 📩 golondongary@hotmail.co.uk

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## What to Bring

✅ Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
✅ Waterproof jacket & layers for changing weather
✅ Packed lunch, snacks & water
✅ Train ticket / Contactless / Travelcard

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## What to Expect

This Turkey Burner hike explores a classic section of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, starting near Box Hill & Westhumble Station and following part of the historic North Downs Way. The route passes through rolling chalk downland, ancient woodland and open meadows, showcasing characteristic scenery of the Mole Valley. A highlight is the approach to Polesden Lacey, an Edwardian country house set within landscaped gardens and parkland, offering elevated views across the surrounding hills.
After lunch, the route continues along woodland tracks and quiet valleys towards Ranmore Common, a high ridge with panoramic views across the North Downs. The trail then descends into Denbies Wine Estate, the largest vineyard in England, with 265 acres of vines thriving on chalky, south-facing slopes. Denbies is a major regional landmark and popular visitor destination. The hike ends near Box Hill & Westhumble Station, making it an ideal countryside adventure for walkers travelling from London.

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## Stay Connected

Ready to stop relying on apps and start navigating with confidence? This practical Map Reading & Navigation Course is designed to give you real world skills you can use on every hike. Set in the beautiful countryside just outside London, we’ll cover everything from understanding OS maps and contour lines to using a compass, planning routes, and staying safe when things don’t go to plan. Whether you’re new to hiking or want to build confidence for bigger adventures, this course will give you the tools to explore independently, safely, and with total confidence.

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🥾 MAP READING & NAVIGATION COURSE
Learn the essential skills every hiker should have

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📊 COURSE DETAILS
LEVEL: Beginner to Intermediate
DISTANCE: Approx. 6 to 8 km practical walking
TERRAIN: Woodland trails, open countryside, gentle hills
DURATION: Full day with practical exercises throughout

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🕓 SCHEDULE & MEETING INFO
MEETING TIME: 09:50 Tring Station
TRAINS: London Euston to Tring 08:54 to Tring (arrives 09:32, 38 mins)
TICKETS: Return to Tring Contactless, accepted
START: 10:40 from Tring Station
LUNCH: Pack Lunch.
HIKE FINISH: Approx. 16:30 at Tring Station
RETURN TRAINS: Every 30 to 40 minutes

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🧭 WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
• How to read an OS map with confidence
• Understanding contour lines, symbols, and terrain features
• How to use a compass and take accurate bearings
• Orientating the map to match the landscape
• Planning your own routes before a hike
• Navigation techniques in low visibility
• What to do if you get lost

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🎯 WHY JOIN THIS COURSE
• Build real confidence navigating without your phone
• Learn practical skills, not just theory
• Small group with hands on guidance throughout
• Perfect foundation for UK hiking and international trekking
• Led by experienced, qualified hiking leaders

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