What we’re about
Hey there! Welcome to my hiking group!
This group is for people 18 years old and over.
I set up this group in January 2023. My aim is to organise day hikes so that people can get together and enjoy nature. Beautiful locations such as the Chiltern Hills, Surrey Hills, North and South Downs, Kent, and even the coast, etc are easily reachable from London in a day by train (or car if preferred). Hiking together in the rolling hills, picturesque countryside, and across dramatic and stunning coastlines with a bunch of like-minded people can be a splendid way to make new friends, have fun, explore new places, and improve your fitness.
I’m passionate about the outdoors. I love travelling and hiking – it’s my hobby. I’ve been hiking in Europe, Canada and all over the UK across many years and I’m always looking for the next thrilling adventure.
If you’re alone, don’t worry!
Many hikers turn up by themselves and it’s a great way to meet new people and make friends.
Hikes:
Hikes will vary in distance and ascent. They will typically be in the 14 - 20 km range but some may be shorter or longer. My personal preference is for hikes around the 14 - 16 km range (around 9 - 10 miles) but this is not always possible. I have also introduced leisurely walks in London aimed at exploring and getting to know the city better - these will be shorter in length and duration to my hikes outside London.
There is usually some ascent as when you're in the countryside you are bound to encounter hilly terrain! Some hikes will be more hilly than others - the ascent will be made clear in the hike description. While the hikes should be suitable for anyone who is reasonably fit, please ensure you are comfortable with the distance and ascent; some hikes may not be suitable for beginners.
The hiking time can vary – it would typically be around 4 to 6 hours but it’s very difficult to be specific as it would depend on the specific details of the hike (length/ascent), weather, pace of the group, and duration of our breaks. Some of the longer and challenging hikes will take more time. There could sometimes be the option to grab some refreshments after a hike (e.g. a pub) – this would be optional and may increase the overall duration of the event.
Pace:
We will NOT be marching along the trails - this is not a race to the finish line. We will hike at a reasonable and moderate pace; there will be breaks. If you're a fast walker, this group may not be for you. My aim is to give everyone the opportunity to soak in the views, enjoy nature, wildlife, take pictures and enjoy each other’s company.
So if you're fun, friendly, polite and respectful and looking to make friends and discover new places then please sign up - I look forward to welcoming you!!
RSVP:
Please maintain proper etiquette when signing up to events. Don't just sign up knowing you may change your mind later; in doing so you're taking up space and potentially preventing someone else from coming along. Please sign up only if you're sure you will definitely attend.
Of course sometimes things happen outside your control and so if you need to drop out please remember to change your RSVP immediately. I do not want members in this group who sign up but don't show up or who sign up and regularly drop out by changing their RSVP - you may be removed from my group if I see this type of inconsiderate behaviour.
I do not allow any pets/dogs on group events.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER / TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
By agreeing to join my group and participate in events, you confirm you have read, understood and accepted the below, including the full Terms and Conditions
I am NOT a qualified hike leader or first aider.
Hiking, walking, and hill walking and essentially all outdoor activities within this group can be risky; there is a risk of personal injury and even death. All participants must be aware of the risks and accept the risks – participants are responsible for their own safety and actions. I, the organiser, am not responsible or liable in any way. All participants agree not to hold me responsible or liable for any injury (or death), damage or losses incurred either directly or indirectly from their participation in group events.
The Surrey landscape was one of the first to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The hills stretch across a quarter of the county of Surrey. The area is rich in wildlife, woodland and attractive market towns and villages.
Our hike will take us past Leith Hill Place, the childhood home of one of England's greatest composers, Ralph Vaughan Williams. We then enter Rhododendron Wood, which was planted in the late 1800s by Caroline Wedgwood, a keen botanist and the elder sister of naturalist Charles Darwin. It contains species from the Himalayas, China and Thailand. In 1944, the wood was bequeathed to the National Trust by Caroline Wedgwood's grandson, Ralph Vaughan Williams.
Today, Rhododendron Wood is a relaxing haven. In May it should be in bloom and ablaze with colour - hopefully we'll see these myriad colours in all their glory!
Leith Hill is the highest point on the Greensand Ridge and, at 294m, the second highest point in southeast England. It is a popular picnic spot, with benches where you can relax and soak up the stunning views. On the summit there is an 18th century Gothic tower. The top of the tower is officially the highest spot in southeast England at 1029ft (313m) - on a good day it is said that you can see many London landmarks such as the Shard, etc. There is a panoramic vista across Surrey and Sussex to the sea some 30 miles distant.
When we leave the tower, we continue through the woods along the ridge and then gradually drop down to complete the loop back to Holmwood station.
Cost: £4 organiser fee payable on RSVP
Start time: 9:55am
Start location: Holmwood station (my mobile: 07951673142)
End location: Holmwood station
Length: 14km
Ascent: 300m
Time: around 5.5 hours. It’s not possible to guarantee an exact end time as it depends on the weather, pace of the group, and our breaks.
Pace/Difficulty: a reasonable and moderate pace; we will not zoom along in a mad rush. There will be breaks. The aim is to enjoy being outdoors in nature and have a fun, friendly day. While there is a moderate level of ascent, it is not overly strenuous and overall the hike is suitable for beginners.
Transport (train): The 8:41am direct train from London Victoria reaches Holmwood station at 9:47am (check the trains before travel). You could coordinate with other participants and buy a group saver ticket.
Transport (car): If you're driving, there is free parking on the side streets close to the station.
Transport (carshare): I’ll be driving from Ealing, West London and have space for 3 passengers. Please contact me if you’d like to carshare.
What to bring:
Check the weather and bring appropriate gear. A comfortable backpack, waterproof jacket, sufficient food, snacks, and water along with suitable socks and footwear (waterproof hiking boots) are some essentials. Walkways and trails can be steep, muddy, and slippery and boots with ankle support will be useful, as well as hiking poles. Gaitors are handy when its muddy and wet. Carrying waterproof socks in your backpack is a good idea in case your boots get wet from the inside. Don't wear inappropriate clothing such as jeans and sneakers. Remember to carry any medication you may require. If it’s sunny, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen!
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER / TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
By participating, you confirm you have read, understood and accepted the below, including the full Terms and Conditions
I am NOT a qualified hike leader or first aider.
Hiking, walking, and hill walking carry the risk of personal injury and death. Participants must be aware of, and accept, the risks. Participants are responsible for their own safety and actions and agree not to hold me responsible or liable for any injury (or death), damage or losses incurred either directly or indirectly from their participation in group events. This group is for people 18 years old and over.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Leith Hill and Rhododendron Wood - colourful blossoms (Surrey Hills AONB), 14kmHolmwood, Dorking£4.00
The Surrey landscape was one of the first to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The hills stretch across a quarter of the county of Surrey. The area is rich in wildlife, woodland and attractive market towns and villages.
Our hike will take us past Leith Hill Place, the childhood home of one of England's greatest composers, Ralph Vaughan Williams. We then enter Rhododendron Wood, which was planted in the late 1800s by Caroline Wedgwood, a keen botanist and the elder sister of naturalist Charles Darwin. It contains species from the Himalayas, China and Thailand. In 1944, the wood was bequeathed to the National Trust by Caroline Wedgwood's grandson, Ralph Vaughan Williams.
Today, Rhododendron Wood is a relaxing haven. In May it should be in bloom and ablaze with colour - hopefully we'll see these myriad colours in all their glory!
Leith Hill is the highest point on the Greensand Ridge and, at 294m, the second highest point in southeast England. It is a popular picnic spot, with benches where you can relax and soak up the stunning views. On the summit there is an 18th century Gothic tower. The top of the tower is officially the highest spot in southeast England at 1029ft (313m) - on a good day it is said that you can see many London landmarks such as the Shard, etc. There is a panoramic vista across Surrey and Sussex to the sea some 30 miles distant.
When we leave the tower, we continue through the woods along the ridge and then gradually drop down to complete the loop back to Holmwood station.
Cost: £4 organiser fee payable on RSVP
Start time: 9:55am
Start location: Holmwood station (my mobile: 07951673142)
End location: Holmwood station
Length: 14km
Ascent: 300m
Time: around 5.5 hours. It’s not possible to guarantee an exact end time as it depends on the weather, pace of the group, and our breaks.
Pace/Difficulty: a reasonable and moderate pace; we will not zoom along in a mad rush. There will be breaks. The aim is to enjoy being outdoors in nature and have a fun, friendly day. While there is a moderate level of ascent, it is not overly strenuous and overall the hike is suitable for beginners.
Transport (train): The 8:41am direct train from London Victoria reaches Holmwood station at 9:47am (check the trains before travel). You could coordinate with other participants and buy a group saver ticket.
Transport (car): If you're driving, there is free parking on the side streets close to the station.
Transport (carshare): I’ll be driving from Ealing, West London and have space for 3 passengers. Please contact me if you’d like to carshare.
What to bring:
Check the weather and bring appropriate gear. A comfortable backpack, waterproof jacket, sufficient food, snacks, and water along with suitable socks and footwear (waterproof hiking boots) are some essentials. Walkways and trails can be steep, muddy, and slippery and boots with ankle support will be useful, as well as hiking poles. Gaitors are handy when its muddy and wet. Carrying waterproof socks in your backpack is a good idea in case your boots get wet from the inside. Don't wear inappropriate clothing such as jeans and sneakers. Remember to carry any medication you may require. If it’s sunny, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen!IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER / TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
By participating, you confirm you have read, understood and accepted the below, including the full Terms and Conditions
I am NOT a qualified hike leader or first aider.
Hiking, walking, and hill walking carry the risk of personal injury and death. Participants must be aware of, and accept, the risks. Participants are responsible for their own safety and actions and agree not to hold me responsible or liable for any injury (or death), damage or losses incurred either directly or indirectly from their participation in group events. This group is for people 18 years old and over. - Long Man of Wilmington to coastal cliffs of Seaford Head, 19kmCar Park Berwick Station | APCOA, Polegate£4.00
This absolutely stunning walk starts inland from South Downs National Park to the dramatic chalk sea cliffs of the coast - it will include amazing changing landscapes, hills, valleys, cute villages, walking along the banks of the Cuckmere River, gasping at the incredible beauty of Seaford Head Local Nature Reserve and the sight of the spectacular and legendary Seven Sisters cliffs, and passing two large chalk figures on steep hill slopes along the way: The Long Man of Wilmington and Litlington White Horse.
The Long Man of Wilmington is a 235ft high chalk figure of a man holding two sticks. This mysterious giant guardian of the South Downs has baffled archaeologists and historians for hundreds of years – no one really knows who or why he was carved out of the earth. He continues to remain shrouded in myths and folklore and is one of Sussex's greatest mysteries. The Long Man is Europe’s largest portrayal of the human form and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. It used to be visible only under certain light conditions in the past, until its outline was marked with concrete blocks to make it clearly visible from a distance. During the Second World War, it was painted green to avoid being used as a landmark by enemy aircraft.
Litlington White Horse is 65 ft high and 93 ft long and consists of 6 tons of chalk. It is unclear why this horse was carved out of the hillside. According to the National Trust, the original horse was crafted by some men in 1836. The present horse was carved in 1924 to replace the lost original; it was done by the grandson of one of the men from 1836.
We'll follow the meandering Cuckmere River to where it flows into the English Channel at Cuckmere Haven, a quiet shingle beach dominated by the spectacular white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters to the east (this is a popular film location!). Once you've soaked up the breath-taking view of the vertical cliffs, we'll climb Seaford Head to the west of the beach and admire the world-famous iconic view of the majestic Seven Sisters. This vast area covering Seaford Head cliffs and Cuckmere Valley is the Seaford Head Local Nature Reserve, encompassing many valuable conservation habitats. We'll walk along the cliff-top to reach Seaford on the coast.
IMPORTANT RISK WARNING:
One section of the hike (along Seaford Head), takes place along the top of coastal cliffs which are in a state of constant erosion. There is no proper fencing. Please keep a very safe distance from the edge. It is extremely dangerous to venture too close to the crumbling cliff edges; there are sheer drops here and any fall will almost certainly be fatal.Cost: £4 organiser fee payable on RSVP
Start time: 10:30am
Start location: Berwick (Sussex) station BN26 6TB. My mobile: 07951673142
End location: Seaford’s Esplanade Car Park at the seafront BN25 1JT next to the coastal cliffs and beach huts (Seaford station is a 15min walk away)
Length: 19km
Ascent: 377m
Time: approx 7.5 hrs. It’s not possible to guarantee what time we'll finish as it depends on the weather, pace of the group and our breaks along the way. Please be prepared to dedicate the entire day as the return time cannot be guaranteed. There will be opportunities for refreshments along the way.
Pace/Difficulty: reasonable and moderate pace; we will not zoom along in a mad rush. There will be breaks. The aim is to enjoy nature and have a fun, friendly day. This is a long hike across some hills with a moderate level of ascent and it may not be suitable for absolute beginners.
Transport (train): The 8:54am train from London Victoria reaches Berwick (Sussex) station at 10:25am. Check the trains before travel. You could coordinate with other participants and buy a group saver ticket. This is a linear hike and your return to London is from Seaford station.
Transport (car share): I'll be driving from Ealing, West London and have space for 3 passengers. Contact me directly if you'd like to car share.
What to bring:
Check the weather and bring appropriate gear. A comfortable backpack, waterproof jacket, sufficient food, snacks, and water along with suitable socks and footwear (waterproof hiking boots) are some essentials. Walkways and trails can be steep, muddy, and slippery and boots with ankle support will be useful, as well as hiking poles. Gaitors are handy when its muddy and wet. Carrying waterproof socks in your backpack is a good idea in case your boots get wet from the inside. Don't wear inappropriate clothing such as jeans and sneakers. Remember to carry any medication you may require. If it’s sunny, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen!IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER / TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
By participating, you confirm you have read, understood and accepted the below, including the full Terms and Conditions
I am NOT a qualified hike leader or first aider.
Hiking, walking, and hill walking carry the risk of personal injury and death. Participants must be aware of, and accept, the risks. Participants are responsible for their own safety and actions and agree not to hold me responsible or liable for any injury (or death), damage or losses incurred either directly or indirectly from their participation in group events. This group is for people 18 years old and over. - The Devils Punch Bowl and Hindhead Common, 15kmHaslemere Station, Haslemere GU27 2PE£4.00
Immerse yourself in nature at Hindhead Common and the Devil’s Punch Bowl, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The area has many trails and comprises shady woods and open heathland with grazing cattle and wild ponies; it has been designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who created Sherlock Holmes, lived in Hindhead from 1897 to 1907; it is said that he used Hindhead as the inspiration for his novel ‘The Hound of the Baskervilles’.
The huge natural basin that is the Devil’s Punch Bowl is a true wildnerness. Legend has it that the Devil would jump from hill to hill at the Devil’s Jumps, three small hills near Churt, and angered Thor, the God of Thunder, who lived nearby – they got in a fight and one of them scooped up a handful of earth and flung it at the other, leaving the great depression that we see today (there appears to be conflicting reports online in relation to who threw the earth – I’ve seen it written both ways!). In any case, the reality is that springs caused erosion backwards into the soft sandstones, creating the bowl-like shape.
We will summit Gibbet Hill, which is the second highest point in Surrey, offering stunning panoramic views. Discover the Celtic Cross here, erected to raise local spirits and banish fears and superstitions around Gibbet hill. The Cross is now a Grade II listed monument. The café at Devil’s Punch Bowl is where we will take a short break.
Cost: £4 organiser fee payable on RSVP
Start time: 10:00am
Start location: Haslemere station, GU27 2PE (my mobile: 07951673142)
End location: Haslemere station
Length: 15km
Ascent: 395m
Time: approx 6 hrs. It’s not possible to guarantee what time we'll finish as it depends on the weather, pace of the group and our breaks along the way.
Pace & Difficulty: a reasonable moderate pace; we will not be zooming along in a mad rush. The aim is to enjoy the outdoors and have a fun, friendly day. You need to be reasonably fit; there are some hills and a moderate level of ascent.
Transport (train): The 9:00am direct train from London Waterloo reaches Haslemere station at 9:53am. Check the trains before travel. You could coordinate with other participants and buy a group saver ticket.
What to bring:
Check the weather and bring appropriate gear. A comfortable backpack, waterproof jacket, sufficient food, snacks, and water along with suitable socks and footwear (waterproof hiking boots) are some essentials. Walkways and trails can be steep, muddy, and slippery and boots with ankle support will be useful, as well as hiking poles. Gaitors are handy when its muddy and wet. Carrying waterproof socks in your backpack is a good idea in case your boots get wet from the inside. Don't wear inappropriate clothing such as jeans and sneakers. Remember to carry any medication you may require. If it’s sunny, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen!IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER / TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
By participating, you confirm you have read, understood and accepted the below, including the full Terms and Conditions
I am NOT a qualified hike leader or first aider.
Hiking, walking, and hill walking carry the risk of personal injury and death. Participants must be aware of, and accept, the risks. Participants are responsible for their own safety and actions and agree not to hold me responsible or liable for any injury (or death), damage or losses incurred either directly or indirectly from their participation in group events. This group is for people 18 years old and over. - Trails of Kent – Lavender fields, Castles and Lullingstone Country Park, 15kmOtford Railway Station, , TN14 5QY£4.00
Kent - the garden of England! Enjoy a day in the delightful countryside, passing cute villages, castles, and admiring amazing lavender fields!
We'll begin our adventure in the charming little village of Otford in the Sevenoaks District of Kent. It lies on the River Darent in the lush Darent Valley. It has a rich history dating back to the Romans, Saxons, and Normans. We'll travel through Lullingstone Country Park, 460 acres of ancient woodland and grassland in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Our hike takes us past the Shoreham War Memorial - a cross carved into the east-facing slope of the North Downs above the village of Shoreham. It was made in 1920 in memory of those who died in the Great War.
This is the best time of the year to see lavender fields in bloom - the fields should hopefully be bursting with colour and we will stop and spend some time here where you can take in the splendour of the flowers, relax and enjoy refreshments and perhaps even do some shopping at the farm shop, which sells everything lavender! (note: we will not be going into the fields and walking among the flowers as you need to pay for this). The farm is apparently the largest producer of lavender in the UK - they have a distillery on site that enables them to extract the essential oils within hours of the crop being harvested.
We will pass by a couple of castles along the hike as well - Lullingstone Castle, one of England’s oldest family estates, and Eynsford Castle in the picturesque village of Eynsford. Eynsford castle is a rare example of an early Norman 'enclosure castle'. It was abandoned centuries ago. Eynsford was protected by an extensive curtain wall - today, parts of the wall survive to their impressive full height alongside the remains of the hall building, where the inhabitants would have lived. This is a linear hike from Otford to Eynsford.
Cost: £4 organiser fee payable on RSVP
Start time: 9:40am
Start location: Otford station TN14 5QY (my mobile: 07951673142)
End location: Eynsford station
Length: 15km
Ascent: 140m
Time: approx 6 hrs. It’s not possible to guarantee what time we'll finish as it depends on the weather, pace of the group and our breaks along the way.
Pace & Difficulty: a reasonable moderate pace; we will not be zooming along in a mad rush. The aim is to enjoy the outdoors and have a fun, friendly day. This is an easy hike with some ascent in places and suitable for beginners.
Transport (train): The 8:55am direct train from London Victoria reaches Otford station at 9:31am. Check the trains before travel. You could coordinate with other participants and buy a group saver ticket.
What to bring:
Check the weather and bring appropriate gear. A comfortable backpack, waterproof jacket, sufficient food, snacks, and water along with suitable socks and footwear (waterproof hiking boots) are some essentials. Walkways and trails can be steep, muddy, and slippery and boots with ankle support will be useful, as well as hiking poles. Gaitors are handy when its muddy and wet. Carrying waterproof socks in your backpack is a good idea in case your boots get wet from the inside. Don't wear inappropriate clothing such as jeans and sneakers. Remember to carry any medication you may require. If it’s sunny, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen!IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER / TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
By participating, you confirm you have read, understood and accepted the below, including the full Terms and Conditions
I am NOT a qualified hike leader or first aider.
Hiking, walking, and hill walking carry the risk of personal injury and death. Participants must be aware of, and accept, the risks. Participants are responsible for their own safety and actions and agree not to hold me responsible or liable for any injury (or death), damage or losses incurred either directly or indirectly from their participation in group events. This group is for people 18 years old and over.