GO London Hiking

This walk takes us into the dark and dramatic history of London’s riverside, following the Thames from Tower Hill to Wapping, once alive with sailors, smugglers, pirates, and river rogues. We begin at the Tower Hill, where traitors and nobles met their fate before the watching crowds. From there we pass Tower Bridge and step into St Katharine Docks, once a bustling hub where the riches of empire were unloaded.
We continue along the hidden alleys and ancient stairs of Wapping High Street, tracing the last footsteps of the condemned at Wapping Old Stairs. Along the way we’ll visit the Town of Ramsgate, where the notorious Judge Jeffreys was captured; the Captain Kidd, named after the most legendary pirate ever to hang at Execution Dock; and the Prospect of Whitby, the “Devil’s Tavern,” where sailors and smugglers once plotted by candlelight.
We return via waters of Shadwell Basin, passing the replica ships at Tobacco Dock, and the quiet canals of Wapping before we pass Traitors’ Gate and end the evening back at Tower Hill where you are welcome to join us for refreshments at the Hung, Drawn and Quartered pub a fitting finale to a journey into London’s bloody maritime past.

## 📍 Walk Details

• Start Point: Tower Hill Station (by the Tower Hill sundial).
• End Point: The Hung Drawn and Quartered Pub (near Tower Hill or Monument tube)
• Distance: 7km easy pace, with frequent stops for stories
• Duration: 2.5 hours including breaks.
• Difficulty: Easy flat riverside walking.
• Leader: Gary 07968585224

## ✅ What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes.
• Weather-appropriate clothing.
• Water/snacks if you like.

# Surrey Hills Hike – Gatton Park, Reigate Fort & Epsom Downs Racecourse 🌳🥾

A picturesque route through the Surrey Hills AONB with rolling trails, heritage spots, and sweeping views across the Weald. We wander the landscaped gardens of Gatton Park 🌿 before striding the North Downs escarpment. Explore Reigate Fort (1898 London Defence Scheme) 🏰 and climb to Colley Hill 🔭 for big panoramas.
We continue to the secluded hamlet of Mogador for a relaxed lunch stop 🥪, then cross Banstead Heath and amble through Walton on the Hill. The finale sweeps over Epsom Downs Racecourse with a behind-the-Grandstand loop for a 🌆 London skyline moment—perfect for a celebratory drink 🍻 before trains home.

### 🕘 Schedule & Meeting Info

• Meeting: 09:10, London Victoria Station Next to the information booth near platform 12. 07968585224 🚆
• Train: 09:38 to Merstham, arrive 10:12
• Walk start: 10:20, Merstham Station
• Finish: ~17:00, Epsom Station
• Tickets: Within London Oyster/Contactless (PAYG)
• Cost: £10 (pay on RSVP)

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### 📍 Hike Overview

• Grade: Intermediate 🥾🥾
• Distance: 19 km / 12 miles
• Ascent: 300 m
• Time: 5.5 hrs hiking (plus breaks)
• Terrain: Easy paths & tracks
• Leader: Gary – 📞 07968585224 | 📧 golondongary@hotmail.co.uk

Join us for a guided walk and scenic easy-grade hike through North London's green corridor. We'll follow the Lea Valley Trail from Enfield Lock to Broxbourne, hiking through Gunpowder Park weaving through lakes, rivers, and nature reserves, we stop at the historic St Mary’s Church, the legendary burial site of King Harold, the last Anglo-Saxon King of England.
This route follows peaceful riverside paths, with hidden history, and open green spaces. A perfect for beginners hike or anyone looking for a relaxed weekend adventure. You have the option to Join us at a cosy riverside pub to relax before heading home.

### 🕘 Schedule & Meeting Info

• Meeting Time: 10:10 Enfield Lock Station outside the main entrance
• Train Departure: Every 30 mins from London Liverpool street or Tottenham Hale
• Tickets: Oyster/Travel Card or return ticket to Broxbourne
• Hike Start: Enfield Lock Station 10:15
• Lunch: pack lunch (bring water,snacks and lunch)
• Estimated finish: 16:30 Broxbourne Station