About us
Free, volunteer-led day hikes for fit and confident walkers across London and the surrounding counties
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🥾 What to expect
We are a London-based hiking group exploring routes across London and the surrounding counties, from scenic woodlands and rolling hills to the occasional muddy stretch. Our hikes are typically 20 to 30 km (12 to 19 miles) at a moderate to brisk pace and are best suited to walkers comfortable with longer distances over mixed terrain.
All hikes are free and led by experienced volunteer organisers. Walks usually start around 10:00 and finish mid to late afternoon. Most routes are accessible by train, with optional group travel from central London or the option to meet directly at the hike start point.
The group is open to adults aged 21 and over who enjoy longer and more challenging walks in a friendly and well-organised community that values fresh air, adventure, and good company.
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🌱 About Us
Founded in April 2025, we are a lively group that values fresh air, good conversation, and shared adventure.
Hiking is about people as much as distance, and we aim to create a friendly and supportive atmosphere on every walk. While many of our hikes are longer and more challenging, those newer to long-distance hiking are welcome, provided the event matches their fitness level.
You finish a weekend in the hills tired, muddy, maybe a little achy, but smiling. The fresh air, the miles, the laughter, the challenge, the conversations, the new friendships, and the views stay with you long after the hike is over. By Monday you're recovering, by Tuesday you're already looking for the next adventure.
We call it the hiker's high.
At Hike Together, what matters most is that we get out there and hike together. The route brings us together, but it is the connection with nature, the shared experiences, and the people we meet along the way that make each day memorable.
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👋 First Time Joining a Hike
If this is your first hike with the group, welcome.
We encourage newcomers to introduce themselves to the organiser at the start of the walk. Many members join their first event without knowing anyone, and we aim to create a friendly and inclusive atmosphere.
Please make sure you are comfortable with the distance and pace described in the event before joining. If you are unsure, feel free to ask questions in the event comments.
During the hike, stay aware of the group and avoid becoming separated, particularly at junctions or in remote areas.
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🏛️ How We’re Run
The group is run by a small team of volunteer organisers. We plan and lead walks as peers rather than professionals. We organise UK day hikes only and do not run or promote activities involving travel providers.
Our event hosts and organisers volunteer their personal time to plan, organise, and lead events for the benefit of the community. They do this freely because they enjoy helping people get outdoors, meet new people, and explore nature together.
By attending our events, members acknowledge that organisers volunteer their time and organise activities in good faith. While we always aim to provide a great experience, not everything will go exactly as planned. Flexibility, understanding, and a positive attitude are appreciated.
Hike Together is first and foremost a social community. Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where people can make new friends, enjoy the outdoors, and share memorable experiences.
To maintain a positive atmosphere, we ask all members to treat others with courtesy, respect, and consideration. We are committed to maintaining a respectful and welcoming community. Members whose actions negatively impact the group, its organisers, or other attendees may be removed from events and, where appropriate, from the group.
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✅ Who Can Join
Participation is limited to adults aged 21 and over. Children and pets are not permitted, as routes can be long and physically demanding.
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🔒 Group Independence
This group is dedicated to free, volunteer-led UK day hikes. External trips, paid events, or other organisations should not be promoted through group channels.
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💰 Cost
All hikes are free to attend. In some cases, organisers may arrange optional group rail tickets to help reduce travel costs, and participants using these must travel on the same train and contribute their share. Optional social events may sometimes require a venue or accommodation deposit. Organisers do not profit from any payments.
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💪 Walk Distance and Conditions
Most hikes cover around 20 to 30 km (12 to 19 miles) across hilly and varied terrain.
Typical moving pace is around 4.5 to 5.5 km/h, depending on terrain and conditions. These are not slow or casual walks, and pace may vary slightly between events.
Routes explore classic English countryside including woodland paths, rolling hills, open ridgelines, and farm tracks. Underfoot conditions can change quickly and may include mud, chalk paths, uneven ground, and occasional steeper sections.
After wet weather, standing water and large puddles may be encountered, sometimes reaching above the ankle of standard walking shoes. On rare occasions short scrambles up steeper sections may require using your hands.
If you are new to longer hikes, we recommend starting with an easier event and building up gradually.
Breaks are limited, and the group maintains a steady forward pace throughout the day. We typically pause for a couple of minutes at junctions to allow everyone to catch up, take a drink, or use the toilet if needed. Longer stops are generally limited to lunch and any planned refreshment stops. As each event is different, please review the event page for specific details.
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🗺️ Hike Difficulty Levels
- Easy: Up to 12 km, mostly flat
- Easy to Moderate: Up to 15 km, some slopes
- Moderate: Up to 20 km, mixed terrain
- Moderate to Strenuous: Up to 30 km, steep sections
- Strenuous: 30+ km, rough terrain
- 👉 Full grading reference available HERE.
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👨👩👧👦 Travel and Meeting Points
Most hikes are accessible by train. Participants should buy their own ticket unless using an organised group option. Some hikes may offer two meeting points, either at a London station or at the hike start. Please arrive on time, as the group cannot wait for late arrivals.
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👥 Group Size
Most hikes typically have between 25 and 50 participants, depending on the event and conditions, with larger groups being less common. As we move as one group, staying with the leader is important.
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🎒 What to Bring (Essential)
- Packed lunch, snacks, at least 2L water
- Proper hiking footwear is essential. Trainers are not suitable for most of our routes, especially in wet or muddy conditions.
- Layers, waterproofs, warm layer
- Sun protection
- Personal medication and blister plasters
- Fully charged phone and head torch
- Offline maps or GPS app
- Some cash or bank card
Recommended: Walking poles, power bank, whistle, dry bags, navigation apps such as AllTrails or Gaia GPS and know how to use them.
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🚻 Facilities
Facilities can be limited or unavailable on rural routes.
Mobile signal may be unreliable in remote areas.
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🧭 Navigation
Please read the event details carefully and bring appropriate navigation tools, such as AllTrails, GaiaGPS, or OS Maps, on your mobile device or a suitable alternative.
If you become separated from the group, stop and remain where you are if it is safe to do so, and contact the host so we can assist in reconnecting you.
If you are unable to contact the host, make safe and sensible decisions using your own judgement and available resources.
We do our best to keep everyone together, but we can’t stop frequently for individuals who are unable to maintain the pace. In these situations, you may need to continue at your own pace.
Do not rely solely on other participants for navigation.
If you choose to move ahead or leave the group structure, you’ll be considered to be continuing independently and responsible for your own route and safety. If you do so without informing an organiser, it will be assumed you’re managing independently.
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⛈️ Cancellations
Hikes run in most weather but may be cancelled for safety or organiser availability. Always check the event page before travelling.
Walks generally go ahead in rain, wind, and cold conditions. Expect wet paths, mud, and exposure at times. Comfort is your responsibility.
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⏰ Typical Schedule
Each hike is slightly different, but most follow a similar structure.
Some participants choose to meet in central London and travel together by train, while others make their own way directly to the starting point.
Once everyone has arrived, the organiser will give a short briefing covering the planned route, key safety points, and what to expect during the walk.
Most hikes begin at around 10:00. We walk at a steady, comfortable pace, with short rest stops along the way and a longer lunch break of approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
The hike leader will guide the group throughout. All participants are expected to follow the leader at all times and must not walk ahead or fall too far behind. The leader will also provide instructions and share important information as needed during the event.
Walks typically finish in the mid to late afternoon, usually between 16:00 and 17:00, depending on distance, conditions, and pace. When possible, there may be an optional pub stop near the finish or close to the train station.
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📸 Photos and Media
Group photos may be taken during hikes and shared on Meetup or social media.
If an image includes you and you prefer not to appear, you may ask the organiser to remove it or replace it with a version where you are blurred or not recognisable. All requests will be respected and choosing not to appear in photos will never affect your participation in the group.
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🛡️ CODE OF CONDUCT
👥 Lift Sharing
Members are welcome to make their own private arrangements for lift sharing and group travel. Any lift sharing arranged between members is undertaken voluntarily, at each individual’s own discretion and entirely at their own risk. Any agreements relating to travel, insurance, costs, timing, or other related matters are strictly between the individuals involved. Once members have established a connection, please arrange privately and move any lift-sharing discussions off this platform.
🌿 Behaviour & Respect
Our events are intended to be social, safe, and welcoming spaces where everyone can enjoy hiking and good company.
Members are expected to behave in a respectful, courteous, and considerate manner at all times. Please be mindful of personal boundaries and maintain appropriate personal space. Unwanted physical contact is not acceptable.
Conversations should remain friendly and respectful. Comments, jokes, or behaviour that make others uncomfortable are not appropriate.
Respect the diversity of our members and treat everyone with kindness.
Conversation on hikes is encouraged but optional. Some people enjoy chatting throughout the walk while others prefer quieter time outdoors. Both are welcome.
👤 Personal Conduct
Smoking, recreational drug use, and the use of loudspeakers are not permitted during group events.
Medications prescribed by a medical professional are permitted. If listening to music or audio, please use headphones so that others can enjoy the natural surroundings.
📝 Attendance, Waiting List and No-Show Policy
Our events often have limited spaces. When a place is taken, it may prevent someone else from joining.
As our events are free, we ask members to be mindful when RSVPing and only sign up if they genuinely plan to attend. Please also avoid booking multiple events on the same day. If your plans change, we understand that things come up, but please cancel as early as possible so your place can be offered to someone on the waitlist.
If an event has a waiting list, the event host may allocate places at their discretion, taking into account factors such as attendance reliability, previous no-shows, and overall commitment to attending. This helps make the best use of limited places.
If you are on a long waiting list and are particularly keen to attend, you are welcome to message the event host. Where appropriate, members with a reliable attendance record may be given priority if places become available. Any decision remains at the event host's discretion.
If your name is not listed as Going, please do not simply turn up and assume you will be able to join the event. Organisers reserve the right to refuse participation at their discretion.
When attending an event, it is important to locate the event host and check in using the QR code.
If you do not check in, you may inadvertently be recorded as a no-show, even if you attended.
If you are unable to attend at the last minute, we understand that unexpected situations happen. However, it is important that you let the event host know as soon as possible. Otherwise, you may be recorded as a no-show.
Members who accumulate three no-shows without providing any explanation or context for their absence may be removed from the group.
Members who repeatedly sign up "just in case" and then cancel at the last minute may be deprioritised when places become available from the waiting list. Where this becomes a persistent pattern, it may also result in removal from the group.
Accounts that appear to be fake or suspicious, particularly those with no previous attendance that sign up and then no-show, may be removed much sooner at the organisers' discretion to help protect the integrity of the group.
🚶 Fitness, Pace and Group Movement
Our hikes are designed for participants who are confident they can maintain the stated group pace over the full distance and terrain.
Pace and difficulty may vary depending on terrain, elevation, and conditions. Event descriptions aim to clearly explain the distance, terrain, and difficulty so members can decide whether a hike is suitable for their fitness level.
Please ensure you read the event description and fitness requirements carefully before signing up.
🌱 Respect for Nature
Please follow the Leave No Trace principle by taking all litter with you and leaving the environment as you found it. Stay on marked paths, avoid disturbing wildlife, and respect gates, signage, farmland, and landowners at all times.
🛡️ Safety and Responsibility
This is a self-supported hiking group. While we walk together, each participant is responsible for their own safety, preparation, and decision-making throughout the event.
Participation is at your own risk. Hiking involves hazards such as changing weather, uneven terrain, and the possibility of injury.
Participants should be honest about their fitness and come properly prepared with suitable equipment, clothing, food, water, and navigation tools.
Organisers are volunteers and may refuse participation if they believe there is a safety concern.
Decisions made by organisers regarding safety, pace, and participation are final on the day.
Organisers are not liable for injury, accidents, or loss of personal items. The group does not provide personal accident or travel insurance.
Leaving a hike early is not always straightforward and may involve a significant walk to the nearest exit point or station. You should only join if you are confident you can complete the full distance. An organiser may help identify an exit option but cannot leave the group.
Organisers may have basic first aid knowledge but are not medical professionals. In the event of a serious incident, emergency services may need to be contacted. Response times in rural areas may be delayed.
🩺 Illness
Please do not attend events if you are unwell or recovering from illness. You are welcome to join again once fully fit.
🚩 Reporting Concerns
If you experience behaviour that makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, please report it directly to Meetup through their reporting channels: Meetup Trust and Safety. Meetup may contact the organisers so that the situation can be reviewed and appropriate action taken.
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📞 Contact During Events
Each event host will provide a working mobile number at the start of the walk for use in case of separation or emergency. If you are unable to reach the event host and require urgent assistance, you may contact the Hike Together organiser, AdrianB, via WhatsApp on +44 (0) 7438 812 663 on the day of the event only.
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📩 Feedback and Complaints
Contact the group owner and founder (AdrianB) directly. Members are welcome to provide constructive feedback, suggestions, or comments regarding group wording, policies, organisation, or any other aspect of the group.
To help keep discussions constructive and manageable, and to avoid turning the platform into a debate forum, please share feedback privately with the organiser (AdrianB) rather than posting it publicly on the platform. This allows feedback to be considered carefully and addressed appropriately while keeping group discussions focused on hiking-related activities and events.
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☑️ Final Acknowledgement
By joining an event, you confirm that you have read and agree to these guidelines and understand that participation is at your own risk.
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📢 Stay Connected
Follow us on: Online | 📸 Instagram | 🐦 X | 🎥 YouTube | 💼 LinkedIn | 🌳 LinkTree
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🍃 We look forward to welcoming you on the trail and sharing many great walks together.
Upcoming events
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🍇 Vineyards, Woodlands & River Trails | North Downs Way | 24 km (15 mi)
Dorking Main Train Stattion, Dorking Main Railway Station, Station Approach, Dorking, Surrey, RH4 1TF, United Kingdom, Dorking, GB📈 Grade: 🥾🥾🥾 Level 3/5 (Moderate)
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🧠 How it will feel
Regular hikers → Moderate
Casual walkers → Moderate to Challenging
Newcomers to long-distance hiking → You may find this difficult
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OVERVIEW
📏 Distance: 24 km (≈15 miles)
🥾 Difficulty: Moderate
📈📉 Elevation: 258 m ascent / 269 m descent
➡️ Point-to-point (Start: Dorking, End: Guildford)
🚶 Walking pace: We will walk at a steady, purposeful, yet conversational pace of around 4.5–5.5 km/h.
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Join us for a relaxing summer social hiking adventure as we follow the beautiful North Downs Way from Dorking to Guildford, discovering tranquil, shaded woodland trails, rolling countryside, and some of Surrey's finest landscapes.This hike is all about enjoying the journey, sharing great conversations, meeting new people, and spending time in nature. It isn't a race or an ultra-endurance challenge, but a relaxed, moderately paced day out where you can unwind, enjoy the scenery, and make the most of the outdoors.
There will be a few stops throughout the day to regroup, enjoy a drink or snack, take in the scenery, and chat along the way.
Our adventure begins in Dorking, passing through the famous Denbies Vineyard, where the vines will be in full summer growth before we join the North Downs Way. A short climb leads us towards Ranmore Common, where the surrounding woodland and sweeping countryside begin to unfold. From here, the route meanders beneath a leafy canopy, following a mixture of wide forest tracks, open paths, and the occasional narrower, uneven footpath. On some of the less-frequented trails, where nature has been left to flourish, you may encounter the occasional bramble or nettle, adding to the route's natural character.
As the day unfolds, we'll pause for a relaxing picnic lunch before arriving at Newlands Corner, the perfect place to refill water bottles, grab a coffee or ice cream, or simply sit back and admire the views.
Continuing onwards, we'll cross open countryside before making the gentle climb to the historic St Martha's Church. The trail then winds through distinctive sandy woodland before gradually descending to the picturesque River Wey, providing a memorable final stretch into Guildford.
Although the route includes two short climbs, neither is particularly strenuous. We'll take them at a comfortable pace, with plenty of opportunities to pause and appreciate the surrounding landscapes.
After the hike, there'll be the option to visit the local Wetherspoons for a well-earned drink and perhaps a bite to eat, providing the perfect opportunity to unwind, relax, and round off a fantastic day in the Surrey Hills.
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🤝 Relaxed and sociable atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to meet fellow hikers.
🍇 Wander through the famous Denbies Vineyard in full summer growth.
🌳 Explore tranquil, shaded woodland along the North Downs Way.
🌄 Enjoy rolling Surrey countryside and panoramic views.
☕ Relax at Newlands Corner with coffee, ice cream, or refreshments.
⛪ Visit the historic hilltop St Martha's Church.
🌊 Follow the picturesque River Wey into Guildford.
🍻 Optional post-hike drinks and food with the group.
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🚂 TRAINS
Catch the 09:02 train from London Waterloo, arriving in Dorking Main at 09:54Catch the 09:35 train from Guildford, arriving at Dorking Deepdene at 09:52.
Catch the 09:26 train from Gatwick, arriving at Dorking Deepdene at 09:49.
🎟️ TICKETS FROM LONDON
OUT: Buy a single from London Waterloo to Dorking £5.25
RTN: Buy a single from Guildford to London Waterloo £11.75
Total ticket cost for the day: £17.00Note: If you try to buy a return ticket from London to Guildford via Dorking, it may be more expensive.
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📍 MEETING POINT AND TIMINGS
⛳️ 10:00 - Meet at the entrance to Dorking Main railway station
▶️ We'll set off as soon as check-in has been completed.
🏁 About 17:00 – Finish in Guildford town centre⏱️ Estimated moving time: 5.5 hours
🕒 Estimated total duration: 7 hours, including breaks and regrouping stops
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📍 OPTIONAL LONDON GROUP TRAVEL
The event host AdrianB will be present as a focal point for group travel.
08:30 – Meet at the London Waterloo ticket office
08:45 – Leave the meeting point and board the train
09:02 – Train departs from London Waterloo
09:54 – Arrive at Dorking Main railway station🚆 RETURN JOURNEY
Regular trains run from Guildford to London, Dorking, and other surrounding destinations.
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FOOD AND FACILITIES
🍔 Lunch: Bring a packed lunch and snacks.
🚻 Toilets, drinking water, coffee, refreshments, and an optional pub stop are available at Newlands Corner, approximately 15 km into the hike.
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🎒 WHAT TO BRING
Packed lunch, snacks, and 2 litres of water
Proper hiking boots or shoes with good grip
Weather-appropriate layers and waterproofs
Sun protection
Fully charged phone
Personal medication and basic first aid supplies
Optional trekking poles
A smile, good vibes, and a sense of adventure
A few more snacks than you think you'll need
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📅 RSVP & ATTENDANCE
RSVP only if you genuinely plan to attend. If you can no longer make it, please cancel at least 48 hours in advance, or as early as possible, so that someone else can take your place. A no-show is when you RSVP but do not attend, or cancel shortly before or after the event starts. Repeated no-shows or late cancellations without a valid reason may result in removal from the group and reduced priority for future events. Reliable members who find themselves on the waiting list are welcome to message the host for priority consideration. Please note that the order of the waiting list does not always determine who will be offered a place. Organisers may prioritise reliable members based on their previous attendance history and overall reliability.
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👣 GROUP PACE & PARTICIPATION GUIDELINES
This is a social group hike, and we ask everyone to stay with the group rather than rushing ahead or falling behind. Please keep the group in sight and remain within a reasonable distance, as a back marker may not always be present. Faster walkers should wait at junctions, and organisers may stop at suitable points for regrouping. If you choose to leave the group structure or continue at a significantly different pace, you will be considered to be hiking independently and responsible for your own route and safety. By attending, you agree to follow these guidelines.
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EXIT POINTS
Around 9 km: Leave the route and walk approximately 20 minutes to Gomshall railway station.
Around 18 km: Leave the route and walk approximately 20 minutes to Chilworth railway station.
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📞 CONTACT: For questions, please message the event host via Meetup. On the day of the walk, you may contact AdrianB via WhatsApp on +44 (0) 7438 812 663.
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⚠️ DISCLAIMER
By joining, you confirm that you have read and accepted the group policy on the About page. You are responsible for your own safety, and neither the host nor the group can be held liable for any injury, loss, or damage.35 attendees
Sussex Hospices Trail: Crowhurst to Etchingham - Historic & Scenic (~21km)
Crowhurst Station,, Station Road,, Crowhurst, GB📈 Grade: 🥾🥾🥾Level 3.5/5 Medium-Difficult
SUMMARY:
Starting from Crowhurst, this path follows the Sussex Hospices Trail into the stunning countryside, passing through woodlands, historic sites and scenic views. There are no toilets at the start or end of the walk. We stop for a toilet break in Battle. Lunch will be at a nature spot. We conclude at the Etchingham Train Station.
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ABOUT:
🥾 ~21km | Point-to-Point Walk |
📈Elevation gain: ~570m | Duration: ~6 hours
📍 Start: Crowhurst Train Station at 10:17
🚆 For trains and group/discounted tickets from London, please see below.
🏁 Finish: Etchingham Train Station, approx. 16:30-17:30
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⚠️ TERRAIN:
Oak forests, woods, fields, uneven grounds. We might need to cross roads and walk along a road for 10-15 minutes as part of the route. So please stay with the group on one side and be aware of the cars. There might be cattle in the fields.
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DESCRIPTION:
Come join us on one or all sections of the Sussex Hospices Trail (Crowhurst to Etchingham), a 200-mile walking route that supports and raises awareness of the 13 hospice care providers serving adults and children in Sussex. The hospices of Sussex provide specialist end-of-life care. Friends of Sussex Hospices has worked with partners and supporters to create the Sussex Hospices Trail. For more information, to join their mailing list, to find events, and to make donations, visit Friends of Sussex Hospices (https://www.friendsofsussexhospices.org.uk/).
This varied path takes us through woods, fields, and oak forests.
We will make several short stops to regroup, take pictures, and enjoy the breathtaking views.
There are no toilets at the start (Crowhurst Station) or at the end of the walk (Etchingham). We stop for a toilet break in Battle and then for lunch at a nature site on the way, so please bring a seating mat and a packed lunch. We finish our hike at Etchingham Train Station.
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🌟 HIGHLIGHTS:- Sussex Hospices Trail (part 12: Crowhurst to Battle; part 13: Battle to Robertsbridge; part 14: Robertsbridge to Etchingham)
- Some parts of the 1066 country walk
Crowhurst Manor House - Fore Wood RSPB Nature Reserve
- Stumblet's Wood
- Battle
- Battle Abbey
- Village of Mountfield
- Scenic views of oak trees, fields, the wooded valley of the River Rother and High Weald
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🚂 TRAINS from London- Ticket: Return from London Bridge → Crowhurst.
Take the 08:54 Service from London Bridge, arriving in Crowhurst at 10:17, duration: 1h 23m (ticket: £21.15 on 23.06.2026 with Network Railcard)
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📍 MEETING POINT AND TIME:
Walk starts: 10:17 sharp from Crowhurst Train Station
Walk finishes: Approx. 16:30 to 17:30 at Etchingham Train Station.
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⚠️ TERRAIN, CONDITIONS AND DIFFICULTY:
Total distance: approx. ~21km (~13miles)
Elevation gain: ~570m
Grade: Moderate to Difficult
Pace: Approx. 4.5km/h (~3mph)
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Riddle me:
Question: Two people have 100 in total. One has 40 more than the other. How much does each have?
🍫🍫🍫If you know the answer, come tell me, and you will get a chocolate. Chocolate will be given to the first three people who come and give me the answer.
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🎒WHAT TO BRING:
- Packed lunch, snacks, and sufficient water
- Sun protection and hat
- Proper hiking gear.
- Weather-appropriate layers and proper waterproofs
- Fully charged phone
- Personal medication and basic first aid
- Trekking poles recommended for slippery/steep ascents and descents
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📋 RSVP POLICY:
RSVP only if you plan to attend. If you can no longer make it, please update your RSVP as early as possible so others may join and organisers can plan fairly and safely. Repeated no-shows without prior notice may result in removal from the group or restrictions on future attendance.
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✅ WHO CAN JOIN
Adults aged 21 and over
No children
No pets
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👣 GROUP PACE & PARTICIPATION GUIDELINES
This is a friendly, social hike where we walk together and enjoy the experience as a group.
Please stay with the group rather than walking ahead independently, as the aim is to connect, share the journey, and help maintain safety and group cohesion.
Participants should choose events suitable for their fitness level and be able to maintain the advertised pace. The overall pace and schedule will not be adjusted for individuals.
A back marker may not always be present, so participants should keep others in sight and remain within a reasonable distance of the group.
To help keep the group together:- Faster walkers should wait at junctions.
- If someone ahead is moving significantly slower, feel free to pass and remain with the main group.
- Organisers may pause at suitable points to regroup.
While reasonable efforts will be made to keep the group together, it is not practical or safe to stop frequently for individuals who are unable to maintain the required pace. In such cases, participants may need to continue at their own pace or make their own onward arrangements.
If you choose to move ahead of the group, fall significantly behind, or leave the group structure, you will be considered to be continuing independently and responsible for your own route, decisions, and safety. If you do so without informing an organiser, it will be assumed that you are managing independently.
By attending, you agree to follow these guidelines.
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CONTACT:
Message the event host, Saeideh, directly via Meetup with any questions.
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⚠️ DISCLAIMER
By joining, you confirm that you have read and accepted the group policy on the About page. You are responsible for your own safety. Neither the host nor the group can be held liable for injury, loss, or damage.38 attendees
💜 Lavender Fields & Darent Valley | Free Hike 21 km (13 miles)
Otford Station, TN14 5QY, London, GB📈 Grade: 🥾🥾🥾 Level 3/5 (Moderate)
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🧠 How it will feel
Regular hikers → Comfortable
Casual walkers → Moderately challenging
Newcomers → Challenging
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Join us for a beautiful circular hike starting and ending in Otford, exploring some of the best scenery the Kent Downs National Landscape has to offer. This varied route follows sections of both the North Downs Way and the Darent Valley Path, taking us through rolling countryside, peaceful woodlands, open fields, and picturesque stretches alongside the River Darent.The highlight of the day is our extended lunch stop at Lullingstone Country Park, giving everyone plenty of time to visit nearby Castle Farm. Here you can browse the farm shop, enjoy the wonderful scent of the lavender, stock up on lavender products, use the facilities, or purchase entry to wander through the stunning lavender fields, which should be in full bloom and filling the air with their distinctive fragrance.
💜 Castle Farm Entry (optional)
- Castle Farm website HERE
- If you'd like to enjoy your packed lunch with a picnic in the lavender fields, the entry fee is £14.
- If you'd simply like to wander through the lavender fields, the entry fee is £7.
After lunch, we'll continue through Lullingstone Country Park before following a mixture of woodland trails and open countryside towards the charming village of Shoreham. Along the way, we'll enjoy views of the impressive Shoreham War Memorial Cross, carved into the hillside and standing proudly above the valley.
Our final stretch follows the peaceful Darent Valley Path through woodland alongside the golf course before returning to Otford. We'll finish right next to The Bull Inn, a traditional country pub with a spacious beer garden and plenty of indoor seating. It's the perfect place to relax with a well-earned drink or bite to eat after a fantastic day on the trails.
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OVERVIEW
📏 Distance: 21 km (≈13 miles)
🥾 Difficulty: Moderate
📈📉 Elevation: 401 m ascent / 398 m descent
🚶 Pace: Approximately 5 to 5.5 km/h (3.1 to 3.4 mph) throughout. This is a steady, purposeful walking pace. It's not a race, but it isn't a leisurely stroll either.
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🟩 TERRAIN
Varied open green fields, wide and narrow woodland trails, sections where brambles and nettles may brush against you if you're not careful, gravel tracks, and quiet country lanes where we may need to walk in single file if vehicles are passing. Some sections may be slippery and very muddy after heavy rain. There are also woodland areas with exposed tree roots underfoot, so please take care to avoid tripping. The route includes a few hills, but none are particularly strenuous. The first hill begins shortly after the start and may feel a little tougher as your legs won't be fully warmed up yet.
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📍MEETING POINT AND TIMINGS
⛳️ 09:30 Meet at Otford platform 2 exit What3Words
▶️ Hike starts as soon as check-in is completed (around 09:40)
🏁 17:00 Finish at Otford
⏱️ Estimated moving time: 6 hours
🕒 Estimated total duration: 7 hours, including breaks and regrouping stops
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📍 OPTIONAL LONDON GROUP TRAVEL
08:30 Meet at London Victoria ticket office
08:45 Walk to platform
08:55 Train departs London Victoria
09:32 Train arrives in Otford
Journey time 37 minutesGet off the train and wait at the exit of platform #2
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🚆 RETURN TRAINS
Regular trains from Otford serve London Blackfriars, London Charing Cross, London Victoria, and Ashford International.
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🚗 BY CAR
Parking at Otford station
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FOOD AND FACILITIES
🍔 Lunch: Bring a packed lunch. We'll stop at picnic tables for lunch.
🚻 Facilities: Castle Farm, Lullington Country Park approx. 10km 2.5 hours into the hike
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🎒 WHAT TO BRING
Packed lunch, snacks
2 litres water
Proper hiking boots or shoes with good grip
Weather-appropriate layers and waterproofs
Sun protection
Fully charged phone
Any personal medication and basic first aid supplies
Optional trekking poles
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📅 RSVP & ATTENDANCE
RSVP only if you plan to attend. Please cancel as early as possible if you can no longer make it so others can join. A no-show means you RSVPed but did not attend, or cancelled shortly before or after the start time. Repeated no-shows or late cancellations without a valid reason may lead to removal from the group. Reliable regular members who find themselves on the waitlist may message the host for priority consideration.🚨 The organiser may prioritise members with a history of reliable attendance when allocating places from the waitlist. If you have a history of no-shows or regularly cancel at the last minute, you may be given lower priority than members who consistently honour their RSVPs and moved to a waitlist.
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✅ WHO CAN JOIN
Adults aged 21 and over
No children
No pets
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👣 GROUP PACE & PARTICIPATION GUIDELINES
This is a social group hike, and we ask everyone to stay with the group rather than rushing ahead or falling behind. Please keep the group in sight and remain within a reasonable distance, as a back marker may not always be present. Faster walkers should wait at junctions, and organisers may stop at suitable points for regrouping. If you choose to leave the group structure or continue at a significantly different pace, you will be considered to be hiking independently and responsible for your own route and safety. By attending, you agree to follow these guidelines.
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EXIT POINTS
Shoreham and Eynsford railway stations are close to the route.
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📞 CONTACT
For questions, please message the event host via Meetup. On the day of the walk, you may contact AdrianB via WhatsApp on +44 (0) 7438 812 663.
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⚠️ DISCLAIMER
By joining, you confirm that you have read and accepted the group policy on the About page. You are responsible for your own safety, and neither the host nor the group can be held liable for any injury, loss, or damage.52 attendees
The Six Woods Trail: Nature Reserves & Hidden Paths | Free Hike 23km (14mi)
Ruislip Manor Station, Victoria Road, Ruislip Manor HA4 9AA, GBGRADE 🥾🥾🥾 Level 3.5/5
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📕ABOUT
Join us for a peaceful, green London-edge escape along the Six Woods Trail.
👉🏻A point-to-point hike that links six different woodlands 🌳between Ruislip Manor and Northwood Hills Underground Stations (Zone6)
This route is all about calm nature time: Forest tracks, quiet nature reserves, open clearings and gentle countryside paths with the soothing feeling of being far from the city even though we’re still on the Tube network.
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🌟HIGHLIGHTS- 🌲 Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve – One of London’s most important ancient woodland areas, with a real “deep forest” feel, seasonal colours and loads of birdlife.
- 🍃 Mad Bess Wood – A quieter, tucked-away stretch where the path feels properly secluded—great for that calm, mindful hiking vibe.
- 🌳 Bayhurst Wood – Classic Chiltern-edge woodland atmosphere: soft trails, tall trees and a lovely sense of being enveloped by nature.
- 🌿 Old Park Wood Nature Reserve – A beautiful reserve section with a wilder feel and rich habitat, perfect for slow moments and wildlife spotting.
- 🌲 Bishop’s Wood – A gorgeous woodland network with winding paths and plenty of “choose-your-own-adventure” trail vibes (with the main route keeping us on track).
- 🍂 Copse Wood – A charming final woodland chapter: smaller, peaceful and a lovely way to finish before we return to civilisation at Northwood Hills.
- 🦌 Wildlife spotting – This whole corridor is known for wildlife, so keep your eyes open for woodland birds and other surprises.
- 🚤 Grand Union Canal nearby – Calm waterside atmosphere on the western side of the route with amenities close by.
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📖SUMMARY
🥾23.1km (16mi) | Ascent 490m | Descent 470m | Max Elevation 106m
🚊Train - London Underground Only
😁This is a Friendly Oyster or contactless (bank card) trip. No advance tickets are needed.
⛳️ Meeting Point:
Ruislip Manor Tube Station | 09:50
⚠️This is a Point to Point (not Circular) Hike
📍Hike start: Ruislip Manor tube station | 10:00
🔚Hike finish: Northwood Hills tube station | approx. ~17:00
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🎟️ TRAIN TICKET INFORMATION - Pay by Oyster / contactless bank card (Tube at both ends)
- Plan your journey at TfL Website
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💷COST: Free
This hike is completely free to join but participants need to purchase their own transport tickets.
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🎒WHAT TO BRING: - 2L Water
- Packed lunch and snacks
- Comfortable walking/hiking shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers, waterproofs, hat, sunscreen)
- Optional: trekking poles, camera
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✅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.
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🚨RSVP & ATTENDANCE:
RSVP only if you plan to attend. Please cancel as early as possible if you can no longer make it so others can join. A no-show means you RSVPed but did not attend or cancelled just before or after the start time. Repeated no-shows or late cancellations without a valid reason may lead to removal. Reliable regulars who end up on a waitlist may message the host for priority consideration.
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☯️STAYING TOGETHER:
A dedicated back marker is not always present, so please keep others in sight and avoid moving too far ahead or falling too far behind. Faster walkers should wait at junctions. The hike leader will pause at key points to regroup and reduce the chance of anyone becoming separated from the group.
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⚠️ DISCLAIMER:
By joining, you confirm that you have read and accepted the group policy on the About page. You are responsible for your own safety, and neither the host nor the group can be held liable for injury, loss, or damage.
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