Weekday Hikes

A most delightful FREE walk through some beautiful parks and woodland ! Lets go with the flow ! The walk shall commence at 10.15am - walk length 5 miles. Things to bring : water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and walking shoes or trainers. You should be able to walk 2.5 miles per hour and have adequate and appropriate insurance for this type of activity. We shall have a coffee along the way at Merton Hall Park. The walk shall finish at Carshalton Ponds where some of us will stay for lunch in the pub. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no 07714250849.

Kickstart the New Year with an unforgettable hiking adventure in the stunning Lake District! **Return train travel from London and hotel accommodation included!** \*\*\* Escape the hustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature as you explore crisp winter trails, climb breathtaking peaks, and take in panoramic views. This New Year hiking trip offers the perfect balance of outdoor adventure and relaxation, allowing you to reset and start the year feeling refreshed and inspired. After each hike, return to our cozy pub accommodation where you can relax by the fire, enjoy delicious local food, and share stories with fellow travellers. Whether you're setting new goals or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this trip is the ideal way to begin the year surrounded by the beauty of the Lake District. **Trip Highlights** 🏞️ Stunning hikes through snow-kissed mountains and valleys ❄️ Fresh, crisp air and breathtaking winter views 🥾 Tailored hikes for all fitness levels 🏠 Cozy evenings with roaring fires 🍲 Delicious local food and drinks 🎉 Celebrate New Year's Eve surrounded by nature and adventure 🌟 A perfect way to refresh, recharge, and start the year Set new goals, embrace the adventure, and begin the year with the beauty of the Lake District! \*\*\* **ITINERARY** **Tuesday, 30 December** * 🚉 Meet outside Euston train station around 9am for a relaxing train journey north to the enchanting Lake District. * 🏔️ Your friendly guide will greet you on arrival and transport you to your cozy Eskdale accommodation, nestled among the mountains, where you’ll be staying for three nights. **Wednesday, 31 December (New Year’s Eve)** * 🥾 Kick off the day with an easy circular hike directly from your accommodation, taking you over a local Wainwright hill. Feel the invigorating mountain air as you stretch your legs and enjoy the stunning views—perfect for setting the tone for the festivities ahead! * 🏠 Return to your cozy pub accommodation to freshen up and prepare for a night of celebration as you say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new one in style! Enjoy a festive dinner and drinks with fellow adventurers as the countdown begins! **Thursday, 01 January (New Year’s Day)** * 🌅 Start the New Year with a hearty breakfast, and if you’re feeling adventurous, consider a refreshing dip in the local river to shake off any post-celebration cobwebs! * 🏞️ Embark on another circular hike to soak in the breathtaking beauty of the Lake District, exploring its hidden gems and picturesque landscapes. This is your chance to enjoy the serene tranquility of the park on the first day of the year! **Friday, 02 January** * ☕ Enjoy a final breakfast at your accommodation before packing your bags and heading to a charming local town or village for lunch, allowing you to savor the flavors of the Lake District one last time. * 🚆 Afterward, your guide will transport you to the train station for your return journey home, feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and inspired for the year ahead! \*\*\* **DIFFICULTY:** This trip is designed to be a relatively **easy** 4-days, perfect for those looking for a relaxed New Year in The Lake District. The hikes are gentle, with manageable distances and minimal steep terrain, making it suitable for all fitness levels. No prior hiking experience is needed—just enthusiasm! Your **experienced guide** will ensure a comfortable pace, keeping everyone safe, happy, and able to enjoy the beautiful surroundings at their own speed. **TRANSPORT:** Return train journey from London and short distance minibus transfers in The Lake District **ACCOMMODATION:** Single-sex twin/double rooms in a cosy pub/hotel on the quieter side of The Lake District \*\*\* **Join us for an unforgettable weekend of adventure in The Lake District! Reserve your spot now and prepare to see in 2025 in the most beautiful places in the world!** **COST:** £795 (or £695 if booked before 30 August 2025) *To join us, simply RSVP and pay the £100 deposit. We will then be in contact with more information, including a detailed itinerary and kit list.* **INCLUDED IN THE PRICE** • Return train travel from London to The Lake District • Road transfers and logistical support in The Lake District • 3-nights hotel accommodation • Breakfasts • Guiding hiking with a highly experienced and qualified Winter Mountain Leader • Use of our winter kit, if required (crampons, ice axe, helmet) **NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE** • Personal hiking kit • Lunches and Dinners \*\*\* *All City Mountaineering trips are compliant with the 2018 Package Travel regulations (including financial protection)* ***Please be aware of our [Participation Statement](https://www.citymountaineering.com/participation-statement) and [Terms & Conditions](https://www.citymountaineering.com/terms-and-conditions) prior to joining***

Before all, Attention: This is a birding trip and a hike, there will be some walking involved and some stops for some periods of time to allow bird watching. Time to take an easy walk along the coast, I am not feeling like hiking hills and travelling too far away on this day so let's hop on a train to the coast of Kent and breath in the fresh air! If you want wild traditional English Coast, this is a place to go to. Pebble beaches. swamps, surrounded by nature reserves, golf courses and manor houses, without the crowd of Brighton or Eastbourne. I do recommend cameras and binoculars as you never know what surprise you can get in this magical place! We will look for wildlife but the star of the day will be the short eared owls! If the weather allows, they came put up quite a unique show and will flight just a meter or two away in some cases not caring the least about any of us, so if you are a photographer or a birder, this is your trip! The area is a well known nature reserve with one of the largest concentration of overwintering owls in the country, there were at least nine the last time I came so let's hope for some lucky day! We will walk along and will stop for photos whenever we spot one of those gorgeous feathery friends. This year is one of the most exceptional for the shorties, as we call them in the country and populations at a number rarely seen before have just arrived from Russia and Scandinavia. France is right across the Chanel and we might spot the white cliffs of Calais on a clear day. This is a lovely walk, flat and easy, great for beginners of for people who just want to spend a day out on the Coast without too many human activities around. The area is one of the prime migratory routes for birds in Britain and host an impressive list of rare bird species from around the globe over wintering. A colony of harbour seals also inhabit the nearby bay so we might even spot one or two at hight tide. [Sandwich Bay](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandwich_Bay,_Kent) is home to [nature reserves](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nature_reserve) and two world-class [golf](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golf) courses, [Royal St George's](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_St_George%27s) and [Prince's](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prince%27s_Golf_Club,_Sandwich) where golfers are used to being interrupted by hunting short eared, barn and long eared owls, quite peculiar isn't it? The town is also home to many educational and cultural events. Sandwich also gave its name to [the food](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandwich) that you like by way of [John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Montagu,_4th_Earl_of_Sandwich), who didn't actually live in Sandwich... ATTENTION: PLEASE WEAR WARM CLOTHING. WE WILL STAY AT THE SAME SPOT FOR ABOUT an HOUR TO WAIT FOR THE OWLS and will spend some time in a hide for lunch to spot snipes, jack snipes, avocets and other birds. Those who wish are welcome to join for a delightful diner at a Turkish restaurant afterwards. It is located next to the station so if you prefer to head back home, just jump on the train. DISTANCE: 10 miles/16km DIFFICULTY: Easy/no major climb PRICE: £17 for the guide's fee £29 in cash for the return train journey. INCLUDED: Guide fee A lovely time with the loveliest people, also called Jonions NOT INCLUDED: Transport: Will cost about £29(roughly) for the return train ticket Please bring cash on the day to get a discounted group ticket. Food Anything not mentioned above WHAT TO BRING: A packed lunch Cash for the transport Weather appropriate clothing(Think winter, you will get wet) Preferably hiking shoes, unless you wish your shoes to die. They will! MEETING POINT: London St Pancras at 9:30 am I will send the location when I am there. ATTENTION: Our trips will not be cancelled due to weather conditions so please ensure that you do wear and carry appropriate clothing. 😄 As you can see, my humour is terrible, good luck with that but know that I take care of my Jonions and read the bit about discrimination please, if you are racist, homophobic, cannot accept that people have other opinions or mental health issues, this might not be a trip for you. If you aren't any of the above, we will love you so, come on, press the button. POLICIES: 1: This group is designed for the pleasure and enjoyment of all of us, we do not accept any derogatory comments or behaviours towards anyone. Racism, discrimination and other unacceptable behaviours will only lead to your rejection to any of our trips and this without exception. Everyone is welcome, we have religious and non-religious people, gay, straight, bisexual people, all shades and colours or nationality, people of all ages, sex and political believes and mutual respect is the fundamental spirit of this group. 2: Our trips are only refundable up to 14 days before departure, if you wish to cancel after that, you will be offered a transfer to another trip for the same price or you may resell your slot to somebody else. 3: If we do cancel the entirety of the trip on our side, you will be fully refunded,

First of all...Attention this is a BIRDING TRIP and a HIKE which will involve stopping, waiting and looking for birds. Time to take an easy walk along the coast to my happy place, I am not feeling like hiking hills and travelling too far away on this day so let's hop on a train to the coast of Kent and breath in the fresh air! If you want wild traditional English Coast, this is a place to go to. Pebble beaches. swamps, surrounded by nature reserves, golf courses and manor houses, without the crowd of Brighton or Eastbourne. This trip should be quite an experience, whether you like birds or not, being surrounded by flying owls is quite something and my number one favourite nature show so why not try it out?! I do recommend cameras and binoculars as you never know what surprise you can get in this magical place! We will look for wildlife but the star of the day will be the short eared owls! If the weather allows, they can put up quite a unique show and will flight just a meter or two away, in some cases, not caring the least about any of us, so if you are a photographer or a birder, or want to witness something difference, this is your trip! Of course, it is nature, I cannot commend the owls to come out in the middle of the day but they usually do unless there is a lot of wind so we have got many chances to live the show from the front row seats The area is a well known nature reserve with one of the largest.concentration of overwintering owls in the country, there were at least nine the last time I came so let's hope for some lucky day! We will walk along and will stop for photos whenever we spot one of those gorgeous feathery friends. This year is one of the most exceptional for the shorties, as we call them in the country and populations at a number rarely seen before have just arrived from Russia and Scandinavia. I do recommend cameras and binoculars as you never know what surprise you can get in this magical place! We will look for wildlife but the star of the day will be the short eared owls! If the weather allows, they came put up quite a unique show and will flight just a meter or two away in some cases not caring the least about any of us, so if you are a photographer or a birder, this is your trip! The area is a well known nature reserve with one of the largest concentration of overwintering owls in the country, there were at least nine the last time I came so let's hope for some lucky day! We will walk along and will stop for photos whenever we spot one of those gorgeous feathery friends. This year is one of the most exceptional for the shorties, as we call them in the country and populations at a number rarely seen before have just arrived from Russia and Scandinavia. France is right across the Chanel and we might spot the white cliffs of Calais on a clear day. This is a lovely walk, flat and easy, great for beginners of for people who just want to spend a day out on the Coast without too many human activities around. The area is one of the prime migratory routes for birds in Britain and host an impressive list of rare bird species from around the globe over wintering. A colony of harbour seals also inhabit the nearby bay so we might even spot one or two at hight tide. [Sandwich Bay](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandwich_Bay,_Kent) is home to [nature reserves](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nature_reserve) and two world-class [golf](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Golf) courses, [Royal St George's](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_St_George%27s) and [Prince's](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prince%27s_Golf_Club,_Sandwich) where golfers are used to being interrupted by hunting short eared, barn and long eared owls, quite peculiar isn't it? The town is also home to many educational and cultural events. Sandwich also gave its name to [the food](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandwich) that you like by way of [John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Montagu,_4th_Earl_of_Sandwich), who didn't actually live in Sandwich... ATTENTION: PLEASE WEAR WARM CLOTHING. WE WILL STAY AT THE SAME SPOT FOR ABOUT an HOUR TO WAIT FOR THE OWLS and will spend some time in a hide for lunch to spot snipes, jack snipes, avocets and other birds. Those who wish are welcome to join for a delightful diner at a Turkish restaurant afterwards. It is located next to the station so if you prefer to head back home, just jump on the train. DISTANCE: 10 miles/16km DIFFICULTY: Easy/no major climb PRICE: £17 for the guide's fee £30 in cash for the return train journey. INCLUDED: Guide fee A lovely time with the loveliest people, also called Jonions NOT INCLUDED: Transport: Will cost about £30(roughly) for the return train ticket Please bring cash on the day to get a discounted group ticket. Food Anything not mentioned above WHAT TO BRING: A packed lunch Cash for the transport Weather appropriate clothing(Think winter, you will get wet) Preferably hiking shoes, unless you wish your shoes to die. They will! MEETING POINT: London St Pancras at 9:30 am I will send the location when I am there. ATTENTION: Our trips will not be cancelled due to weather conditions so please ensure that you do wear and carry appropriate clothing. 😄 As you can see, my humour is terrible, good luck with that but know that I take care of my Jonions and read the bit about discrimination please, if you are racist, homophobic, cannot accept that people have other opinions or mental health issues, this might not be a trip for you. If you aren't any of the above, we will love you so, come on, press the button. POLICIES: 1: This group is designed for the pleasure and enjoyment of all of us, we do not accept any derogatory comments or behaviours towards anyone. Racism, discrimination and other unacceptable behaviours will only lead to your rejection to any of our trips and this without exception. Everyone is welcome, we have religious and non-religious people, gay, straight, bisexual people, all shades and colours or nationality, people of all ages, sex and political believes and mutual respect is the fundamental spirit of this group. 2: Our trips are only refundable up to 14 days before departure, if you wish to cancel after that, you will be offered a transfer to another trip for the same price or you may resell your slot to somebody else. 3: If we do cancel the entirety of the trip on our side, you will be fully refunded,

Meeting by Colliers Wood tube - a beautiful 5 mile stretch of the Wandle Trail passing Merton Abbey Mills and various parks including the impressive Morden Hall Park. We shall leave the meeting place at 10.15am, stopping for a coffee in Morden Hall Park, and then finishing at The Greyhound pub by Carshalton Ponds and we shall return from Carshalton by overland train or by bus and tube. Please bring water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and walking shoes/trainers. You should be able to walk 2.5 miles per hour. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no is 07714250849.

**IMPORTANT:** In order to secure your spot you must RSVP on the WeMeet app [here.](wemeet.weroad.com/event/2a9120d9-9ec5-4f58-9d2b-a7f848386fec) Please also note this is a paid event of £8. **Smash 2026 hiking the North Downs Way. This is section 1: Farnham to Guildford.** Join us for a day hike along the **North Downs Way**, tracing ancient routes through Surrey to the Kent Coast. Discover castles, cathedrals, palaces, and beautiful countryside along the way. After the walk, we’ll unwind at a local watering hole for a well-deserved drink! This hike is part of a **series of 12 day hikes**, covering the full North Downs Way from start to finish between January-June. Those completing the entire trail will receive an **official finishers certificate!** **Details:** * This hike is 17km long, with a peaceful, relatively flat, linear walk. * **MEET:** 08:00am, Clapham Junction. Transport is at your own cost. Aiming for the 08:16 train to Farnham. * **STARTING POINT**: Farnham Station, 09:17am * **ENDING POINT**: Guildford Station (around 3.30-4pm) **What to bring:** 🥾Hiking shoes 🧥Warm layers 🧃Snacks & drinks 💊Any personal medication **Disclaimer:** I am not a qualified walk leader (yet), although I do have a lot of experience and will carry a first aid kit for the basics. To join the whatsapp group, get the meeting point and payment information make sure to RSVP on the WeMeet app (instructions above). Come hike, explore, and make new friends on this iconic trail!

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 12 miles (Approx 19/20km) • Grading: [Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 160m • Hiking time: 5 to 6 hours • Cost: £31 (includes guided hike + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet Breaks: On the train, nature (woods/bushes) during hike, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Liverpool Street station. Meet in front of the Information point in the centre of the station - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LiverpoolStreet.jpg) & [PHOTO](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LiverpoolStreetPhoto.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:30am, leave 8:50am for the 9:08am train • Return: 6:27pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Walk the **River Lea canal** with its elegant **Georgian gazebos** and riverside lawns • Pass **Hertford Castle** and its serene **castle grounds** • Roam the landscaped vistas of **Panshanger Park** — grand lakes, avenues, and parkland • See the **Panshanger Orangery**, an elegant relic of the park’s stately past • See the **Great Oak of Panshanger** — Britain’s largest maiden oak, believed to have been planted by Queen Elizabeth the first nearly 600 years ago • Follow the leafy **Cole Green Way**, a tranquil path along a former Victorian railway • Finish in **Hertford’s historic centre** for Georgian architecture, cafés, and pubs 🥾 **Hike Description** This route is less rural than our usual hikes and leans into **heritage, grandeur, and past glories**: riverside gazebos, castle lawns, and stately parkland. It’s a graceful day that trades wild hills for elegant landscapes and centuries of story-soaked architecture — a walk through **England’s cultivated beauty and historic refinement**. We begin by following the **River Lea Canal**, where ornamental gazebos and overhanging willows frame the water — a genteel **Georgian scene** that sets the tone for the day. From the river, we head to **Hertford Castle**, tracing ancient streets to its green, sheltered grounds and the mellow brick remnants of medieval power softened by time. Once a **royal palace**, the castle served as a residence for **Queen Elizabeth I** and famously housed **Parliament during the Great Plague of London** in 1563, when it fled the capital for safety. Leaving town, our route follows the Cole Green Way, a leafy, level greenway along a disused Victorian railway line that leads us through tranquil countryside and quiet woodland glades toward the grand parklands beyond. The route is rich in gentle charm — bridges, hedgerows, and old rail cuttings now reclaimed by nature — guiding us smoothly into the open beauty of **Panshanger Park**. Here, **lakes, lawns, and tree-lined avenues** showcase the design and symmetry of a great English estate. The park’s vast landscape invites slow wandering — pausing to admire the elegant **Orangery** and the mighty **Great Oak**, said to have been planted by **Queen Elizabeth I** herself nearly six centuries ago. We end the day back in **Hertford’s historic centre**, with time to unwind among its riverside pubs, cafés, and handsome Georgian streets — the perfect close to a day devoted to **England’s elegant past**. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [GRAHAM](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07796 098487 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch • Pub visit after the hike (drinks optional) 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

📈**GRADE 🥾🥾🥾 Level 3/5** —— **⛳️MEETING POINT & TIME** **Option 1️⃣** **👉🏻London Marylebone Train station** Main ticket Office \| **08:20** 👉🏻Train departure **08:42** ➡️ Princes Risborough **09:25** \| *Direct Train* **Option 2️⃣** **👉🏻**Outside **Princes Risborough train station** \| **09:30** —— **📍HIKE START** ***-* Princes Risborough** train station \| **09:40** 🏁**HIKE FINISH** ***-* Saunderton** train station \| **\~16:30-17:00** —— **📖SUMMARY** Enjoy a scenic 21.4km (13.3mi) journey through the **Chilterns National Landscape**, exploring peaceful beech woods, rolling hills and fascinating historic sites. Starting from Princes Risborough, we’ll make our way through **Bradenham Wood** and **Hangings Plantation** before stopping for a relaxed lunch break and an ⭐️**optional** **visit**⭐️ to the atmospheric **Hellfire Caves**. From there, we’ll follow an easy climb up to the impressive **Dashwood Mausoleum**, where sweeping valley views await. We’ll end with a gentle descent to Saunderton Station for a smooth journey home. —— **🌟HIGHLIGHTS** * **Bradenham Wood** – Classic Chilterns beech woodland with peaceful trails and gentle hills. * **Hangings Plantation** – Quiet forest paths and lovely viewpoints across the valley. * **Hellfire Caves Visit** – Explore one of the region’s most atmospheric and historic cave systems. https://www.hellfirecaves.co.uk/history * **Dashwood Mausoleum** – Commissioned in the 1760s by Sir Francis Dashwood, founder of the notorious Hellfire Club and owner of West Wycombe Park. Built in a classical style and inspired by Italian architecture, it was intended as a grand memorial for the Dashwood family. The mausoleum stands beside the Church of St Lawrence and contains memorial plaques and urns dedicated to family members and close associates. Its prominent hilltop location made it both a statement of status and a symbolic landmark overlooking the Dashwood estate and the Chiltern Hills. —— **📈TRAIL DETAILS** * This is a **Point-to-Point** * **Princes Risborough *➡️* Saunderton** * **Distance** 21.4km (13.3mi) * **Total Ascent** 609m * **Total Descent** 595m * **Max elevation** 216m * **Duration** 5 hours including breaks * **Difficulty** 🥾🥾🥾**Grade 3/5** —— 💷**COST** **Free** This hike is completely **free to join** but participants need to purchase their own transport tickets. —— **ℹ️ HELLFIRE CAVES TICKET INFORMATION** * During our lunch break, there will be an ⭐️**option to visit the Hellfire Caves**⭐️These unique and dramatic 18th century caves take you deep underground into the Chiltern hills. An atmospheric highlight not to miss ! * Cost **£9.50** * https://www.hellfirecaves.co.uk/history —— 🎟️ **TRAIN TICKET INFORMATION** * **Super Off-Peak Return London Marylebone 🔁 Princes Risborough (direct) with a Network Railcard is £19.30** (instead of the usual \~£29). * 💡If you’d like to join other hikers using a Network Railcard, please arrive earlier so we can organise small groups. Note that each card can cover up to 4 people. * More information at https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/ —— 🎒 **WHAT TO BRING** * 1-2L water * Packed lunch and snacks * Comfortable walking/hiking shoes * Weather-appropriate clothing (layers, waterproofs, hat, sunscreen) * Optional: trekking poles, camera, binoculars —— ✅**WHO CAN JOIN** • 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Our hikes are open to adults aged 21 and over. • 👶 For safety reasons, we’re not able to include children. • 🐾 We love animals, but pets (including dogs) can’t join our hikes. • ☑️ Everyone is welcome to RSVP, but to keep things fair for all members: \- If someone often cancels last minute or misses hikes without notice\, they may be placed on a waitlist or removed from the group for future events\. \- We do a quick check\-in on the day of the hike\, which helps us keep track and make sure spaces are available for those who really want to join\. —— ⚠️**SAFETY** As adults, you are fully responsible for your own safety and decisions throughout the walk. —— 📌**NOTES** * This is a group hike led by volunteers. Everyone is welcome to join. * A few wrong turns? That’s part of the fun! * While you're free to “hike your own hike,” we encourage group participation, get to know one another, make new friends, and enjoy the journey together. * Food options are limited en route, bring lunch. —— 🚨**DISCLAIMER** **Event Participation Disclaimer** * By signing up for an event we host, you acknowledge and agree to the following: * The organisers are not qualified hiking leaders, certified first aiders, or formally trained in navigation, survival, or any related disciplines. * These hikes are informal, self-guided gatherings of like-minded individuals. * The hosts expressly disclaim all responsibility and liability for any injuries, accidents, or safety incidents that may occur during participation. * Participation is entirely voluntary, and all attendees are solely responsible for their own safety and well-being. * These events are non-commercial and are organised purely as a recreational hobby, with no business or financial interests involved. * Hiking and outdoor activities inherently carry risks of personal injury. By choosing to participate, you accept these risks and take full responsibility for your own actions and decisions. —— 🚨**GENERAL GROUP POLICY** * Voluntary Participation: Attendance is at your own risk. The group and hosts bear no liability. * No Professional Duty of Care: Hosts are volunteers, not trained guides or medical professionals. * Insurance Is Your Responsibility: If desired, you must arrange your own personal insurance. * Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles at all times. * Emergency Preparedness: You are responsible for organising your own emergency plan. * Weather and Safety: Events may be cancelled or changed if conditions are deemed unsafe. * Self-Assessment Required: You must honestly assess your fitness and ability to keep pace with the group. * No Guaranteed Rescue: While help may be offered, full rescue capabilities should not be expected. * No Minors Without Guardians: Participants must be over 21. * Right to Refuse Participation: Hosts may turn away any individual who appears unprepared or poses a safety risk to others. * First Aid Preparedness Encouraged: It is highly recommended that each participant carries a small first aid kit for minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes, bites, and blisters. —— 🚨**FINAL ACKNOWLEDGMENT** * By attending this event, you confirm that you are participating voluntarily and at your own risk. Neither the host nor the group accepts responsibility for any injury, loss, or damage incurred.

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 9 miles (14km) • Grading: [Beginners](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) with one main hill that we take gently • Ascent: 140m • Hiking time: 4 to 4.5 hours • Cost: £31 (includes guided hike + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet Breaks: On the train, at the lunch stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: PLEASE READ CAREFULLY before leaving home - you need to enter on the correct main entrance to the station, only this entrance leads to our meeting point, we advise allowing 10 minutes to find it: Fenchurch Street station inside the main entrance at the front of the station. Meet at the top of the escalators in front of the ticket office and the platform ticket barriers – [PHOTO](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/Fenchurch.jpg). Please note - you must come in the main entrance at the front of the station, not any of the other station entrances. The main entrance is on a street called "Fenchurch Place", you can see it here on this Google Maps [LINK](https://www.google.com/maps/place/51%C2%B030'42.3%22N+0%C2%B004'45.3%22W/@51.51174,-0.079249,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d51.51174!4d-0.079249?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDQwMi4xIKXMDSoJLDEwMjExNDUzSAFQAw%3D%3D) • Time: Meet 8:55am, leave 9:15am for the 9:30am train • Return: 5:15pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • **Hadleigh Country Park** \- one of the largest in Essex • **Hadleigh Castle** \- enchanting 13th\-century ruins • **Estuary island of Two Tree Island Nature Reserve** \- a sanctuary for birdlife and marine species • **Leigh-on-Sea** \- often ranked as one of the best places to live in the UK\, a historic fishing town famous for its freshly caught cockles \- a local delicacy • Sweeping views of **the River Thames** estuary throughout the trail • Spot iconic bird species like herons, kestrels and peregrines, for all full list of birds you can see and seasons - [LINK](https://www.ebws.org.uk/birdsites/two-tree-island-leigh-sea) • Remnants of local fishing traditions at the **"Graveyard of Lost Species"** 🥾 **Hike Description** Our hike begins as we follow scenic trails into **Hadleigh Country Park**, a sprawling 387-acre area of meadows, marshes, and woodlands recognized for its natural beauty and biodiversity. We ascend toward **Hadleigh Castle**, perched atop a ridge with captivating views over the Thames Estuary. Built in the 13th century, the castle was a strategic defensive position and later immortalised in a painting by John Constable. We pause to soak in the panoramic views and immerse ourselves in Essex’s medieval past that has inspired artists and writers for centuries. Continuing along the **Thames Estuary Path**, we journey toward **Two Tree Island**, a 634-acre nature reserve surrounded by saltmarsh and tidal mudflats. This peaceful island is crucial for various bird species, providing winter refuge for migratory birds. It is a haven for birdlife, including avocets, brent geese, and Mediterranean gulls. Finally, we arrive in **Leigh-on-Sea**, a charming seaside town with a proud fishing heritage that still continues today. Known for its vibrant maritime culture and delicious cockles and often ranked as one of the best places to live in the UK, Leigh-on-Sea offers the perfect end to our hike, we have time to explore and also enjoy a drink in a coastal pub. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [PAUL](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07873 221480 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch • Pub visit after the hike (drinks optional) 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

## 🥾 **New Year Noodle – Vauxhall to Victoria Walk** See in the last afternoon of the year with a friendly **urban adventure through London’s iconic landmarks and hidden green spaces**. Starting from **Vauxhall Underground Station**, we’ll wander through **Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens** and **Archbishop’s Park**, then cross the **Westminster Bridge** for skyline views of Big Ben and the **Palace of Westminster**. We’ll pause in **Deans Yard** beside **Westminster Abbey**, stroll through the serene **College Garden**, **St John’s Gardens**, and **Millbank Gardens**, then follow leafy paths through **Pimlico** and the **Churchill Gardens Wildflower Meadow**. The route continues via elegant **Warwick Square** before finishing at **Victoria Station**, just in time for an optional celebratory drink at **The Willow Walk Pub**. A relaxed, social 10 km stroll to close out 2025, perfect for meeting like-minded Londoners and soaking up the festive spirit before the fireworks begin! *** ### 🕘 Schedule & Meeting Info **Start:** 13:00 – Vauxhall Underground Station (Lambeth Place Exit) **End:** Victoria Station (optional drinks at The Willow Walk Pub) **Distance:** 10 km **Duration:** ≈ 3 hours **Grade:** Beginner 🥾 **Pace:** Relaxed and social, with plenty of photo stops **Price:** This is free walk but donations to our chosen Christmas charity Jaya Mental Health would be greatly appreciated please donate via the JustGiving page 🙏 [[https://www.justgiving.com/charity/jayamentalhealth](https://www.justgiving.com/charity/jayamentalhealth)](💰 Cost. suggested donation £5 *** *** ### 🎒 What to Bring ✅ Comfortable walking shoes or trainers ✅ Warm layers & waterproof jacket – winter weather can change quickly ✅ Water & snacks ✅ Contactless or Travelcard for travel *** ### 💬 What to Expect Join a welcoming community of Londoners, expats and solo adventurers for this easy, social walk through historic and scenic parts of London. No hiking boots required — just bring good vibes and festive cheer! 🧭 Led by qualified and insured GO London Hiking leaders experienced in group management and urban navigation. *** ### 📲 Stay Connected 📱 WhatsApp: 07968585224 📩 Mailing List: [Go London](https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk/contact) 🌐 Website: [www.golondonhiking.co.uk](https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk) 🎟️ Eventbrite Page: [GO London Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/go-london-hiking-17576718759) 📸 Instagram: [@golondonhiking](https://www.instagram.com/golondonhiking/) 👍 Facebook Page: [Go London Adventure](https://www.facebook.com/GoLondonAdventure/) 👥 Facebook Group: [Go London Hiking](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoLondonHiking/) ### London New Year’s Eve walk, London urban hike, guided walk London, Vauxhall to Victoria walk, South Bank walk, Westminster Bridge walk, London parks walk, New Year’s Eve things to do London, London social walk, meetup hiking group, GO London Hiking, walking events London, outdoor social London, winter walk London

A most beautiful walk along the Regents Canal and Victoria Park by the Hertford Union Canal to arrive at the wonderful Olympic Park in Stratford by teatime. We shall set off at 10.15am and walk for about 6 to 7 miles. Please bring water, snacks etc plus waterproof jacket and walking shoes/boots or trainers. You should be able to walk 2.5 miles per hour and have adequate and appropriate insurance for this type of activity. Meetup fee £5 payable in cash or in advance by bank transfer. Please only post photos of others with their consent. My no 07714250849.

Hi ladies. We will meet in front of the Nature Center and head to the two Observation decks. We will then hike Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook and Sugarbush trails to get approximately four miles total distance. We will walk approximately a 18 minute mile pace. Please wear appropriate hiking shoes.

Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. If trail conditions are poor, we will use the Multipurpose Path.