GO London Hiking

This beautiful coastal hike takes us from the historic city of Chichester out to the wide open shoreline of West Wittering, combining peaceful canal paths, estuary views, and a stunning stretch of sandy beach.
Starting from Chichester, we follow the scenic Chichester Ship Canal before reaching the estuary at Birdham. The route then traces the coastline along the Chichester Harbour, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty known for its wildlife, sailing waters, and expansive views.
Heading south, we reach the striking sand dunes of East Head, with far reaching views across to Hayling Island and the Isle of Wight. A relaxing walk along West Wittering beach brings us inland through quiet lanes and picturesque villages before finishing in West Wittering.
We then take a short bus ride back to Chichester, where there is time for a well earned drink or meal before heading back to London.

🕓 Schedule & Meeting Info

MEETING TIME: 08:30 London Victoria Station next to the information booth near platform 12 07968585224
TRAINS: 09:05 from London Victoria (direct) Arrives Chichester 10:37
TICKETS: (not included) Return to Chichester and Bus from West Wittering to Chichester (contactless)
HIKE START: 10:40 Chichester Station
LUNCH: Pack Lunch.
HIKE FINISH: Approx. 17:00 – Chichester
RETURN TRAINS: Regular services from Chichester to London Victoria

📏 Hike Details

DISTANCE: 10.5 miles (17 km)
ASCENT: 270 m
TERRAIN: Flat riverside paths, coastal trails, sandy beach, and country lanes
GRADE: Beginner

🎒 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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## 🥾 GO London Hiking – Epping Forest & High Beach Hike (via Upshire & Copt Hall House)

### 🌄 Overview

Join GO London Hiking for a stunning countryside adventure starting right at the end of the Central Line in the pretty town of Epping.
Within minutes of leaving the station, we’ll be walking through rolling Essex countryside, passing open fields, ancient woodland, and royal hunting grounds once enjoyed by Henry VIII and Queen Elizabeth I.
This route combines peaceful forest trails, sweeping views, and a touch of Tudor history – a perfect day out for anyone looking to stretch their legs and explore one of London’s most accessible green escapes.
This circular route through Epping Forest showcases one of England’s oldest royal forests, officially designated for hunting in the 12th century and still protected today.
Along the way we pass the impressive Copt Hall House, a fine example of Georgian architecture built on land once gifted by Queen Elizabeth I. Although gutted by fire in 1917, restoration work continues, making it a fascinating landmark of local heritage.
We’ll also visit High Beach, one of the highest points in the forest, where clear days offer panoramic views across the Lea Valley towards Central London. This spot is perfect for lunch or a coffee break at the visitor centre café.

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### 🕓 Schedule & Meeting Info

Meeting Time: 10:00 Epping Underground Station (outside main entrance)
Trains: Central Line – frequent trains from Central London to Epping (Zone 6)
Tickets: Return on the Underground (use Contactless, Travelcard, or Oyster)
Hike Start: 10:10 Epping Underground Station (outside main entrance)
Hike Finish: Around 16:30 at Loughton Underground Station (Central Line)
Return Trains: Every few minutes back to Central London
Hike Leader: Gary 07968585224

🚆 Train fare is not included – please purchase your own return ticket in advance or on the day.

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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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### 📏 Grade & Distance

Grade: Beginner / Intermediate
Distance: 16 km / 4.5hrs hiking time
Ascent: 148 metres
Terrain: Mostly good forest paths and gentle hills

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### 💬 About GO London Hiking

We’re one of London’s most active and welcoming hiking groups — connecting over 40,000 outdoor enthusiasts for adventures across the UK and beyond.
All hikes are led by qualified and insured leaders passionate about nature, wellbeing, and community. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned hiker, you’ll feel right at home.

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### 💚 Stay Connected

This epic challenge is perfect for hikers and hill lovers looking for a big day out in the beautiful Surrey Hills. We take on three of the area’s most iconic summits: Box Hill, Holmbury Hill, and Leith Hill. Starting from Holmwood Station, we head across open countryside before climbing to Anstiebury Hill Fort, continuing through Coldharbour to reach Leith Hill, crowned by its Victorian tower and at 294 metres the second highest point in South East England, with views stretching as far as the City of London. We descend through woodland to Holmbury Hill with sweeping views towards the South Downs, then continue to the charming village of Holmbury St Mary and on to Westcott. A steep climb takes us to Ranmore Common where we join the North Downs Way, passing Denbies Vineyard before tackling the famous 275 steps up Box Hill. We finish with a descent to Box Hill and Westhumble Station, with the option of a well earned drink at the pub.

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🕓 Schedule & Meeting Info
MEETING TIME: 08:10 London Victoria Station Next to the information booth near platform 12
TRAINS: • 08:41 London Victoria to Holmwood • Arrives 09:47
TICKETS: Return to Holmwood (buy in advance or on the day)
HIKE START: 09:50 Holmwood Station
LUNCH: Pack Lunch
HIKE FINISH: 19:00 to 20:00 Box Hill and Westhumble Station
RETURN TRAINS: Every 30 to 40 minutes
HIKE LEADER: Gary 07968585224

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Distance: 28 km, Ascent: 800 m, Duration: Approx. 8.5 hours plus breaks
Grade: Challenging, Terrain: Undulating hills, steep climbs, woodland trails, and some long sustained ascents

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This is a demanding hike with significant distance, elevation, and a steady pace. Suitable for strong hikers with good fitness and recent hiking experience.

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What to Bring
✅ Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
✅ Waterproof jacket and layers for changing weather
✅ Packed lunch, snacks and water
✅ Train ticket, contactless or travelcard

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Starting at Chingford, you will head into Epping Forest and follow a mix of woodland paths, forest tracks and quieter trails towards Highams Park. The route takes you through one of London’s largest green spaces, with ancient trees, open clearings and a real feeling of being away from the city, even though you are still within easy reach of home.
The walk finishes at Highams Park, where there will be the option to stay for drinks afterwards if you fancy carrying on the evening.

📍 Walk Details

• Start Point: Chingford Station (weaver line) outside the main entrance
• End Point: Highams Park (weaver line) Optional drinks at the Royal Oak Pub.
• Distance: 6km
• Duration: 2 hours including breaks.
• Difficulty: Easy flat woodland walk.
• Leader: Gary 07968585224

## ✅ What to Bring

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