London Hike Club

The Champion’s Path

On Saturday, December 6th, join us for a special hike along one of the Thames’ most beautiful stretches with Leah McCourt, professional MMA fighter and World Champion in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Leah will share what it takes to become a fighter and a champion, not just in the cage but in life.

There is something timeless about following the Thames through the Goring Gap, a valley carved between the Chiltern Hills and North Wessex Downs. The river here flows wide and reflective, often shrouded in morning mist that turns the landscape into a Turner painting.

The trail itself is gentle, hugging the towpath as it curves past riverside cottages, swan-filled backwaters, and meadows that roll right up to the water’s edge. Along the way, you will pass historic villages that once inspired writers and artists, their pub gardens and church spires offering charming pauses.

This hike is less about climbing hills and more about finding rhythm, a chance for conversation to flow as easily as the water, and to reflect on what it means to persevere and thrive. We will finish in Pangbourne, with the option of gathering at a cosy riverside pub, warmed by a fire and good company.

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What Leah Will Share

Discipline

Showing up every day, even when motivation is gone

How structure and routine create freedom to achieve big goals

Endurance

Training the mind to keep going when the body wants to stop

The power of resilience, where victory comes to the one who refuses to quit

Belief in God

Faith as the foundation that grounds her in both wins and losses

Trusting in God’s plan to overcome fear and face challenges with courage

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Event Details

Date: Saturday, December 6th
Distance: 9 km (approx. 2 hours with stops)
Terrain: Mostly riverside towpaths, easy terrain
Meeting point: Goring Rail Station

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Highlights along the way

- Goring and Streatley Bridge & Lock
- Hartslock Nature Reserve
- Whitchurch-on-Thames & Toll Bridge
- Scenic Changes: Woodland, Meadows, Farmland

The Gratitude Hike with Alex Ikonn ☃️❄️

Christmas is the most special time of the year to practice gratitude. It is a season of reflection, connection, and appreciation for the people and moments that make life meaningful. That is why we are inviting Alex Ikonn, founder of The 5-Minute Journal, to lead a festive winter walk through Hampstead Heath. Alex has inspired millions around the world to make gratitude a daily ritual, and now he brings that spirit to London for a Christmas gathering on the trails.

Together we will explore secret corners of Hampstead Heath on a mindful winter walk that celebrates reflection, community, and the magic of the season.

Along the way, Alex will share how a simple gratitude practice can transform perspective, why he created The 5-Minute Journal, and how we can use small rituals to feel more grounded during the festive season. He will also invite us to reflect with a few prompts, such as:

What is one small moment from this year you are truly grateful for?

Who is someone that made a difference in your life recently?

What do you want to carry with you into the new year?

Frosted grass crunches underfoot, Parliament Hill reveals sweeping views of the city, and hidden gardens feel like discoveries waiting just for us. Hampstead Heath in winter is a landscape of contrasts with wild woods, open meadows, and tranquil ponds. It is a reminder that nature and gratitude can thrive even in the heart of London.

We will pause at viewpoints, share stories, and finish in a traditional pub with mulled wine and seasonal cheer. This is more than a hike. It is a Christmas gathering in motion and a chance to walk into the holidays with gratitude.

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Details

📅 Date: Saturday, December 20th
📍 Meeting Point: Hampstead Underground Station, Hampstead High St, NW3 1QA
🚶 Distance: 6 km loop (about 2 hours with stops)
🌿 Terrain: Flat, urban green walks, paved + park paths

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Highlights

• Guided by Alex Ikonn, founder of The 5-Minute Journal
• Gratitude reflections and prompts along the way
• Parliament Hill Viewpoint
• Hampstead Ponds
• Secret Gardens and Lanes
• Seasonal Magic