Backpacking London

Salamander's Hill (14 miles)

Where is Salamander? A walk to where the best autumn colours are guaranteed, but where lies Salamander? This mystery tour through Surrey hills first visits a place of exotic foliage in autumnal finery. Then a hill crowned by a folly. Finally Salamander's hill, from which to witness the going down of the sun. Places in the Surrey hills that may be known but not as much as may be thought. Outward Travel: Take the train departing 9.56 AM from London Waterloo to FARNCOMBE. An off peak day return is £17.00 with Groupsave or Network card. Beforehand from 9.30 AM the organizer will be easy to spot near the ticket office in the centre of the station to act as a focal point for people arranging group tickets. Walk start: 10.50 AM from Farncombe rail station. Bring a packed lunch. Village/pub stop for drinks. Walk ends at GUILDFORD. 🔦As always in the winter months a torch is advisable in case it may be needed 🔦 *How to join?* * The walk is entirely free of charge; * You only arrange for your own travel and pub expenses; * Understand our terms and conditions below (the "IMPORTANT" part); * Understand how to stay safe outdoors, as you will be responsible for yourself. See our quick safety tips: http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/ *What to bring* * Plenty of water, 1-2 litres recommended * Enough snacks and packed lunch to keep you energized along the walk * Extra snacks and an extra packed lunch just in case * Rainproof (ideally waterproof) clothing, sturdy shoes/boots you don't mind getting muddy Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section! IMPORTANT Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organized by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes. Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is no business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader". Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen. Despite this, we take extreme precautions and all trips we plan are very safe, fun, highly educational and popular. Our experienced members volunteer their time and effort to shape a pleasant and quality adventure for everyone :-) By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer. Here are our tips on staying safe during outdoor trips: http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/ TRAVEL, ACCOMMODATION, INSURANCE Although we provide detailed suggestions, each participant is expected to arrange their own travel - this gives everyone the freedom and choice. Anyone interested in travel or outdoor insurance should also arrange this on their own. As mentioned above we always take extreme precautions, but some people may still feel safer if covered. As most of our trips are confirmed or postponed very close to the event date - heavily depending on the weather forecasts - we advise not to buy this until the last minute. People getting tickets from the same station are encouraged to meet early on the day to benefit from discounts such as GroupSave.

Women's Solo Travel Social

**Join us for an evening of Women's Solo Travel Social!** Whether you’ve backpacked across Asia, taken solo city breaks around Europe, or are just planning your first trip, come meet like-minded people who enjoy exploring the world on their own terms! Expect good conversation, meeting fellow travel lovers, community, swapping stories, destination inspiration, travel tips, and sharing recommendations. For both newcomers and experienced solo travellers alike! Please feel free to bring friends! Also follow @Trusttrip.travel on Insta for more updates, and to continue sharing travel stories! We will be upstairs in the pub, I'll have a little sign on the table!

Lille Noël Christmas Market

Kick off Christmas in style visiting a top Christmas market with hiking each day Saturday and Sunday. Based in busy Lille this weekend guarantees the festive mood 🎅🌲 [Lille Christmas Market 2026 - Dates, Program, and Practical Info](https://www.festivalenfrance.com/en/festival/lille-christmas-market) Each day there is a chance to walk part of the GR 121B path which begins near the Belgian border and will be followed during the weekend to the outskirts of Lille. [GR®121B Hiking: Bailleul (Flanders) to Rieulay (Nord)](https://www.gr-infos.com/en/gr121_B.htm) As the link description says, the trail begins from the Flanders hills, with Flemish architecture, windmills and canals. Shared history is etched into the landscape: each day will end or start at Armentieres, about which grandfather and great-grandfather probably sang as they travelled these parts. Travel options include Eurostar, rail/ferry, cheap coach, or car via ferry or Channel Tunnel. Feel free to arrange car share here. The organizer will meet people at the walk start on Saturday morning. The route is well served by local trains and buses. *How to join?* * The walk is entirely free of charge; * You only arrange for your own travel and pub expenses; * Understand our terms and conditions below (the "IMPORTANT" part); * Understand how to stay safe outdoors, as you will be responsible for yourself. See our quick safety tips: http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/ Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section! IMPORTANT Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organized by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes. Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is no business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader". Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen. Despite this, we take extreme precautions and all trips we plan are very safe, fun, highly educational and popular. Our experienced members volunteer their time and effort to shape a pleasant and quality adventure for everyone :-) By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer. Here are our tips on staying safe during outdoor trips: http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/ TRAVEL, ACCOMMODATION, INSURANCE Although we provide detailed suggestions, each participant is expected to arrange their own travel and (if required) accommodation - this gives everyone the freedom and choice to join from wherever they want and stay wherever they want. Anyone interested in travel or outdoor insurance should also arrange this on their own. As mentioned above we always take extreme precautions, but some people may still feel safer if covered.

Marlow - A Symphony of Nature. Approx. 17miles - Moderate pace

FINAL 2026 Chichester - Coastal paths, Estuaries, Bosham Village & Ferry ride

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 12 miles (20km) • Grading: [Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 20m • Hiking time: 5 to 6 hours • Cost: £36 (includes guided hike + ferry + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet Breaks: On the train, at the mid-afternoon stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: Victoria station. Meet between WHSmith (no 34) and Nero Express (no 29) - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/Victoria.jpg) & [PHOTO](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/VictoriaPhoto.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:30am, leave 8:50am for the 9:05am train • Return: 7:15pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Explore **Chichester Harbour** — a 3,700-hectare estuary and designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, teeming with wildlife • Take a **ferry ride across the historic Chichester Channel**, famously painted by J.M.W. Turner • Stroll through **Chichester Marina**, one of the South Coast’s most vibrant harbours with over 1,000 boats • Visit **Chichester**, an ancient Roman city fortified after AD 43 • Enjoy peaceful coastal scenery, wildflower meadows, and serene waterways 🥾 **Hike Description** Our adventure begins in the historic **Roman city of Chichester**, whose roots stretch back nearly 2,000 years. From here, we set out toward **Chichester Harbour**, the largest natural estuary in South East England and a protected wildlife sanctuary. The harbour’s expansive tidal waters and saltmarshes are alive with birdlife, making it one of the UK’s richest coastal habitats. We follow a scenic trail past the **Bosham Channel**, a picturesque stretch of water that has inspired painters, poets, and writers for centuries. Soon we reach the **Chichester Channel**, once used as a wartime shipping passage and immortalised in a painting by **J.M.W. Turner**. Here we cross by the traditional ferry, a unique highlight of the day and a chance to admire the waterway up close. Arriving in the old village of **West Itchenor**, our route continues to the bustling **Chichester Marina**, home to more than 1,000 boats and one of the South Coast’s most vibrant harbours. From here, our path meanders past ancient villages, coastal meadows, and historic sites before concluding with a refreshing visit to a local pub — the perfect way to end this coastal journey. This is a very flat coastal route and much of the hike follows paved paths, promenades and quiet lanes rather than rough countryside trails. It is less rural than most of our hikes. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [BEA](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07345 241215 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch • Pub visit after the hike (drinks optional) 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

HILLY HIKE 17km Jane Austen's Box Hill, England's largest vineyard & North Downs

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 11 miles (17km) • Grading: [Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 485m • Hiking time: 4 to 4.5 hours • Cost: £31 (includes guided hike + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet Breaks: On the train, at the mid-afternoon stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: Victoria station. Meet between WHSmith (no 34) and Nero Express (no 29) - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/Victoria.jpg) & [PHOTO](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/VictoriaPhoto.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:05am, leave 8:25am for the 8:41am train • Return: 5:45pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Hike through the **Surrey Hills AONB** (422 km²) — one of England’s most beautiful landscapes • Visit the famous **Box Hill viewpoint** with far-reaching views over Surrey and Sussex • Enjoy varied hiking across **woodland, downs and the River Mole** • Visit **Denbies Wine Estate** — England’s largest vineyard and award winner • Cross the iconic **Stepping Stones** on the River Mole • See the twisting Olympic cycle race roads (2012) 🥾 **Hike Description** For centuries, the beauty of **Box Hill** has inspired artists, writers and musicians. **Jane Austen** set a scene from Emma here, George Lambert painted it in 1733 (now in Tate Britain), and it has even featured in modern songs. The poet **Keats** and **G.K. Chesterton** also drew inspiration from these hills, showing how this corner of Surrey has long captured creative imaginations. Our hike begins in the **Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty**, with woodland and rolling trails through Norbury Park before joining the twisting roads used in the **2012 Olympic cycling race**. From here, we climb to the summit of Box Hill, where the **Salomons Memorial viewpoint** offers sweeping panoramas across the Weald and as far as Devil’s Dyke by the South Coast. On the way we also encounter traces of history, including a late 19th-century fort built to defend against French invasion and the semi-ruined folly tower from 1815. After soaking up the views, we descend to the **River Mole** and cross its famous **Stepping Stones**, a much-loved landmark of the area. The trail then continues through open chalk downland and woodland before reaching **Denbies Wine Estate**, the largest vineyard in England, winner of international awards including Best Rosé in the World at the 2010 International Wine Challenge. A wonderfully varied hike that blends chalk downs, riverside beauty, iconic views and layers of history — all within easy reach of London. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [GRAHAM](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07796 098487 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch • Pub visit after the hike (drinks optional) 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

Solo Travel Social- Dinner!

**Solo Travel Social - 1st Dinner edition!** Join us for a chilled dinner over the Festive season at Hiba. It's an amazing Palestinian restaurant, the food is great, **it's BYOB**, and the staff couldn't be friendlier. *This is a paid event, as I’ll need to book a table, so I’ll need a more definite idea of numbers attending.* Whether you’ve backpacked across Asia, taken solo city breaks around Europe, or are just planning your first independent trip, everyone is welcome! It’s a chance to chat about places you’ve been (or want to go), swap travel stories, share tips and recommendations, and hopefully meet some new people along the way. If solo travel is your thing, or you’re thinking about giving it a try, you’ll fit right in! Also follow @Trusttrip.travel on Insta for more updates, and to continue sharing travel stories! [A place to share and discover real experiences, reviews and recommendations from our community.](https://www.instagram.com/trusttrip.travel)

HIKE 26km Leith Hill Gothic Tower, Ancient Woodlands and Panoramic Views

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 16 miles (26km) • Grading: [Intermediate/Challenging](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 530m • Hiking time: 5.5 to 6.5 hours • Cost: £31 (includes guided hike + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet Breaks: On the train, nature (woods/bushes) during hike, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: Victoria station. Meet between WHSmith (no 34) and Nero Express (no 29) - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/Victoria.jpg) & [PHOTO](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/VictoriaPhoto.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:05am, leave 8:25am for the 8:41am train • Return: 7:15pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Explore the **Surrey Hills AONB**, England’s most wooded county • Conquer **Leith Hill** (314m) — the highest point in South East England • Visit **Leith Hill Tower**, an 18th-century Gothic folly with breathtaking panoramic views • See **Tilling Springs**, the source of the River Tillingbourne • Walk through **Denbies Wine Estate**, England’s largest vineyard 🥾 **Hike Description** Our journey begins in the market town of **Dorking**, following sandy trails and ancient woodlands onto the **Greensand Ridge**. From here we ascend to **Leith Hill**, crowned by its striking 18th-century Gothic tower. At 314m, this is the highest point in South East England, and for nearly 200 years it has been a celebrated picnic spot. We pause here for lunch, with the option, subject to opening and a small admission charge, to climb the tower's 78 spiral steps for panoramic views stretching from London to the English Channel. From the summit, the trail leads us into deep woodland to reach **Tilling Springs**, the source of the River Tillingbourne, whose waters once powered mills across Surrey villages. We then ascend to the **North Downs Way**, one of England’s great National Trails, where frequent viewpoints reveal wide vistas across the valleys and back towards Dorking. Continuing through wooded ridges, we arrive at **Ranmore Common**, a plateau dotted with sweeping meadows and the beautiful **St Barnabas Church**, built in 1860. The route offers a mix of quiet forest paths, open landscapes and far-reaching views that show off Surrey at its very best. Our finale is a walk through the rolling slopes of **Denbies Wine Estate**, the largest vineyard in England. In summer you can see the vines heavy with grapes, while year-round the estate provides a spectacular backdrop with views towards **Box Hill**, completing a hike that blends natural beauty, history and English charm. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [GRAHAM](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07796 098487 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

🦭 Hike to Atlantic Grey Seal Pups – Britain's Wildlife Safari

################# **This trip is now FULL!** **If you missed out, we’re running it again:** 👉 **Saturday 28th November:** https://www.meetup.com/londonsocialhiking/events/317176758/ 👉 **Sunday 29th November:** https://www.meetup.com/londonsocialhiking/events/317176923/ **We’ve created a list of [FAQs](https://drive.google.com/file/d/12gIZWTLfA3zQsx1fb0lpv1zOWP2vC5tq/view?usp=drive_link) to help answer your questions.** ################# We’re off to Norfolk! The seals in Norfolk are truly one of **Britain's most special sights**. Without any doubt, they're an incredible WOW factor and one that you must see! On this day hike, we'll walk along the top of the sand dunes and enjoy stunning panoramic views across the North Sea. On our way, we'll pass the much-loved **Atlantic** **grey seal colony at Horsey Beach**, which draws thousands of visitors each year, particularly between November and March, when the seals come ashore to breed. There are literally **hundreds and hundreds of seals and their pups** stretching for as far as the eye can see! The whole walk is in the **Broads National Park** – one of fifteen national parks in the UK. You'll discover its iconic windmills, navigable waterways and broads (man-made, shallow lakes). With over 125 miles of lock-free waterways, the Norfolk Broads have more miles of waterway than Venice or Amsterdam, and are an extremely popular boating holiday destination! Locals like to call the Broads “the Venice of the East”. 💪 This walk is **suitable for all abilities** – it is almost entirely flat and done at a very gentle pace to allow us enjoy the nature and take plenty of pictures. **HIKE HIGHLIGHTS** * Watch seals and their young from a close distance at Horsey Gap, home to one of the biggest colonies of grey seals in Britain. * Take a gentle stroll over the vast open expanse of the golden sand dunes of Winterton Beach – a Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest. The area is a veritable haven for birds and all kinds of wildlife and is widely regarded as having the best sand dunes in Norfolk. * See the spectacular Horsey Windpump – the youngest and largest windpump in the Norfolk Broads. It was built in 1912 to pump water out from the surrounding land so that it could be used for farming. * Discover Horsey Mere, often regarded as one of the most beautiful of the northern broads and famous for its internationally important wildlife. * Walk the newly opened stretch of the England Coast Path – a new National Trail around all of England's coast, which once completed will be the longest coastal walking route in the world (4,500 kilometres in length!). **DISTANCE & DIFFICULTY** Distance: 6 miles (10km). Ascent: 50m. Difficulty: [Easy](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BMjvqhAAdSeCdyzLPHs0z04_e2TiKdci/view). **ITINERARY** **07:45** Meet outside ibis London City – Shoreditch Hotel, 5 Commercial St, E1 6BF (near Aldgate East Station) **08:00** Sharp departure **11:15-16:30** Horsey Windpump to Hemsby hike via Winterton-on-Sea for a lunch stop **16:30** Departure **19:30** London, next to Bow Road Underground Station **TRANSPORT** As on most of our trips, we'll travel in a comfortable 16-seater minibus. **SAFETY** This hike is led by an experienced, Outdoor First Aid qualified hike leader. **BOOKING** To keep ticket prices down and avoid PayPal/Meetup fees (£7 extra per ticket), we kindly ask for payment by bank transfer. Please include your Meetup name and the trip as the payment reference (e.g. John Seals). As places are limited, we can hold your place for 24 hours. Business Account Name: London Social Hiking Limited Sort Code: 20-17-20 Account Number: 63116514 We'll let you know by changing your status to “Paid” as soon as the payment is cleared. You can check your status next to your name in the [attendees list](https://www.meetup.com/londonsocialhiking/events/316640075/attendees) of the event. You don’t need a paid Meetup subscription to do this – just close any pop-up windows and continue. **THE PRICE OF £78 INCLUDES** * Transport throughout the trip * Experienced, professional PSV minibus driver * Guiding on all hiking routes by an experienced and qualified Lowland Leader * Professional event organisation * Group first aid kit with qualified first aiders * Admin fee * 20% VAT **THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** * Personal insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects, and personal trekking insurance) **HOW TO CONTACT US** For all enquiries, please PM Anna (the main organiser) via Meetup. Alternatively, you can email us at info@lshiking.co.uk We'll usually get back to you within 4 hours. Your guide will be Lily (07450435289, only for use during the hike). Please get in touch if you have any difficulty locating the meeting point or need help during the trip. **WHAT TO BRING** * Suitable hiking shoes with ankle support * Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers or a poncho (if there is a chance of rain) * Gloves/hat/cap * Water (min 1L) * Packed lunch **REVIEWS ⭐** We have hosted over 700 events on Meetup and received an incredible number of positive reviews from our community. We’re proud to have achieved an **average event rating of 4.8 out of 5**. Please keep sharing your feedback – it helps us continue to improve and make every trip even better! **JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA** This is where we share pictures from our events. Feel free to use for inspiration on where to go next! [Facebook group link](https://www.facebook.com/groups/220802492121957) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/london_social_hiking/) **REFUND POLICY** You can check our refund policy [here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Wmc2pJsSJ2EL1jKajVITPz3qjNepS2Tu/view?usp=drive_link).

🦭 Hike to Atlantic Grey Seal Pups – Britain's Wildlife Safari

################# **This trip is now FULL!** **If you missed out, we’re running it again:** 👉 **Saturday 28th November:** https://www.meetup.com/londonsocialhiking/events/317176758/ 👉 **Sunday 29th November:** https://www.meetup.com/londonsocialhiking/events/317176923/ **We’ve created a list of [FAQs](https://drive.google.com/file/d/12gIZWTLfA3zQsx1fb0lpv1zOWP2vC5tq/view?usp=drive_link) to help answer your questions.** ################# We’re off to Norfolk! The seals in Norfolk are truly one of **Britain's most special sights**. Without any doubt, they're an incredible WOW factor and one that you must see! On this day hike, we'll walk along the top of the sand dunes and enjoy stunning panoramic views across the North Sea. On our way, we'll pass the much-loved **Atlantic** **grey seal colony at Horsey Beach**, which draws thousands of visitors each year, particularly between November and March, when the seals come ashore to breed. There are literally **hundreds and hundreds of seals and their pups** stretching for as far as the eye can see! The whole walk is in the **Broads National Park** – one of fifteen national parks in the UK. You'll discover its iconic windmills, navigable waterways and broads (man-made, shallow lakes). With over 125 miles of lock-free waterways, the Norfolk Broads have more miles of waterway than Venice or Amsterdam, and are an extremely popular boating holiday destination! Locals like to call the Broads “the Venice of the East”. 💪 This walk is **suitable for all abilities** – it is almost entirely flat and done at a very gentle pace to allow us enjoy the nature and take plenty of pictures. **HIKE HIGHLIGHTS** * Watch seals and their young from a close distance at Horsey Gap, home to one of the biggest colonies of grey seals in Britain. * Take a gentle stroll over the vast open expanse of the golden sand dunes of Winterton Beach – a Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest. The area is a veritable haven for birds and all kinds of wildlife and is widely regarded as having the best sand dunes in Norfolk. * See the spectacular Horsey Windpump – the youngest and largest windpump in the Norfolk Broads. It was built in 1912 to pump water out from the surrounding land so that it could be used for farming. * Discover Horsey Mere, often regarded as one of the most beautiful of the northern broads and famous for its internationally important wildlife. * Walk the newly opened stretch of the England Coast Path – a new National Trail around all of England's coast, which once completed will be the longest coastal walking route in the world (4,500 kilometres in length!). **DISTANCE & DIFFICULTY** Distance: 6 miles (10km). Ascent: 50m. Difficulty: [Easy](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BMjvqhAAdSeCdyzLPHs0z04_e2TiKdci/view). **ITINERARY** **07:45** Meet outside ibis London City – Shoreditch Hotel, 5 Commercial St, E1 6BF (near Aldgate East Station) **08:00** Sharp departure **11:15-16:30** Horsey Windpump to Hemsby hike via Winterton-on-Sea for a lunch stop **16:30** Departure **19:30** London, next to Bow Road Underground Station **TRANSPORT** As on most of our trips, we'll travel in a comfortable 16-seater minibus. **SAFETY** This hike is led by an experienced, Outdoor First Aid qualified hike leader. **BOOKING** To keep ticket prices down and avoid PayPal/Meetup fees (£7 extra per ticket), we kindly ask for payment by bank transfer. Please include your Meetup name and the trip as the payment reference (e.g. John Seals). As places are limited, we can hold your place for 24 hours. Business Account Name: London Social Hiking Limited Sort Code: 20-17-20 Account Number: 63116514 We'll let you know by changing your status to “Paid” as soon as the payment is cleared. You can check your status next to your name in the [attendees list](https://www.meetup.com/londonsocialhiking/events/316971721/attendees) of the event. You don’t need a paid Meetup subscription to do this – just close any pop-up windows and continue. **THE PRICE OF £78 INCLUDES** * Transport throughout the trip * Experienced, professional PSV minibus driver * Guiding on all hiking routes by an experienced and qualified Mountain Leader * Professional event organisation * Group first aid kit with qualified first aiders * Admin fee * 20% VAT **THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE** * Personal insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects, and personal trekking insurance) **HOW TO CONTACT US** For all enquiries, please PM Anna (the main organiser) via Meetup. Alternatively, you can email us at info@lshiking.co.uk We'll usually get back to you within 4 hours. Your guide will be Anna (07596844467, only for use during the hike). Please get in touch if you have any difficulty locating the meeting point or need help during the trip. **WHAT TO BRING** * Suitable hiking shoes with ankle support * Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers or a poncho (if there is a chance of rain) * Gloves/hat/cap * Water (min 1L) * Packed lunch **REVIEWS ⭐** We have hosted over 700 events on Meetup and received an incredible number of positive reviews from our community. We’re proud to have achieved an **average event rating of 4.8 out of 5**. Please keep sharing your feedback – it helps us continue to improve and make every trip even better! **JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA** This is where we share pictures from our events. Feel free to use for inspiration on where to go next! [Facebook group link](https://www.facebook.com/groups/220802492121957) and [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/london_social_hiking/) **REFUND POLICY** You can check our refund policy [here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Wmc2pJsSJ2EL1jKajVITPz3qjNepS2Tu/view?usp=drive_link).

Autumn colours of the North Downs and the Temple of the winds

WhatsApp Gary 07968585224 This beautiful hike explores the **northern edge of the South Downs National Park and the Sussex Weald**, following sections of the **Serpent Trail** through some of West Sussex’s finest heathland, woodland and open countryside. We begin by crossing **Marley Common**, a peaceful mix of broadleaf and chestnut woodland, open heath and grazing land. Now managed by the National Trust, the common is home to **Belted Galloway cattle** and offers a wonderfully rural start to the walk. From here, we continue towards **Fernhurst** before climbing steeply towards the **Temple of the Winds**. The effort is rewarded with sweeping views across the **South Downs**, and on a clear day it may even be possible to see as far as the **English Channel**. Our route then takes us across **Black Down**, the highest point in the historic county of Sussex. The area has strong literary connections with **Alfred, Lord Tennyson**, who bought nearby land in the 19th century and built **Aldworth House** as his summer home. From Black Down, we continue through the rolling Sussex countryside towards the attractive market town of **Haslemere**, where the hike finishes. Afterwards, you are welcome to join us for a well-earned drink in a local pub before catching the train back to London. ### **🕘 Schedule & Meeting Info** * **Meeting Time:** 08:40 at London Victoria Station, by the information booth near platform 12 *(alternatively you can meet us at the hike start point)* * **Trains:** 09:09 from London Victoria to Haslemere, arriving at approximately 10:14. Journey time approximately 1hr 5mins. * **Tickets:** Return ticket to Haslemere * **Hike Start:** 10:14 at Haslemere Station * **Lunch:** pack lunch * **Estimated finish:** 18:00 at Haslemere Station * **Return to London:** Regular trains to London Victoria 📍 **Hike Overview** * **Grade:** Intermediate **🥾🥾** * **Hiking time:** Approx 6 hours, excluding breaks * **Distance:** 19km / 12 miles * **Ascent:** Approx 600m * **Terrain:** Woodland, heathland and countryside tracks with several steep hills and climbs * **Pace:** Steady with regular breaks * **Hike Leader:** Gary 07968585224 🎒 **What to Bring** **✅** Hiking boots or sturdy hiking shoes ✅ Waterproof jacket ✅ Suitable layers for the weather and conditions ✅ Packed lunch & water ✅ Return train ticket to Haslemere *** 💬 **What to Expect** Our hikes are social, inclusive, and fun. Expect a welcoming community of Londoners, expats, solo walkers, professionals, and nature lovers. Most people join solo – and leave with new friends. 🧭 **Qualified, Insured Hike Leaders** All GO London events are led by qualified, experienced, and fully insured hike leaders, trained in outdoor safety, navigation, and group management. ✅ **RSVP Now** Spaces are limited – RSVP “Yes” to secure your place. Full event details, reminders, and updates will be emailed in advance. **📩 Mailing List:** **[Go London](https://facecbc8d32d11ef94b85b7e672b1d18.eo.page/x267r)** **🌐 Website:** **[www.golondonhiking.co.uk](https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk/)** **🎟️ Eventbrite Page:** **[GO London Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/organizations/events)** **📸 Instagram:** **[@golondonhiking](https://www.instagram.com/golondonhiking/)** **👍 Facebook Page:** **[Go London Adventure](https://www.facebook.com/GoLondonAdventure/)** **👥 Facebook Group:** **[Go London Hiking](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoLondonHiking/)** 📜 **Terms & Conditions** By signing up, you agree to our full [Terms & Conditions](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XSic4Aj9VJguTQuiWrTd6I1A-EmvmQCqCHggB0omlX8/edit?usp=sharing) including our cancellation and [refund policy](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W6Qs7etfaqZBHlZJV5P8LhWJ0ZJkZD51LgpsK2kxFI8/edit?usp=sharing). London hiking, hiking group London, walking group London, hiking meetups, countryside walks near London, UK hiking group, weekend hikes from London, day hikes London, public transport hikes, nature walks London, outdoor adventures, expat hiking group, social hikes, London trail walking, South Downs hiking, Sussex hiking, Haslemere walks, Serpent Trail, Black Down hiking, National Trust walks, South Downs National Park.

FREE SUNDAY HIKE 12KM | Wimbledon, Richmond Park & the Thames

🎟️ **FREE EVENT — no membership required** Join us for a **12.1 km Sunday walk** from Wimbledon through woodland, commons and Richmond Park, finishing beside the River Thames at Richmond Bridge. A great way to enjoy nature, meet new people and discover one of London’s greenest walking routes. **Coming alone? Absolutely fine — many people do.** ## 🥾 WALK DETAILS **Distance:** 12.1 km / 7.5 miles **Difficulty:** Moderate **Ascent:** Approx. 309 m **Walking time:** 3.5–4 hours **Start:** Wimbledon Station **Finish:** Richmond Bridge The route takes us through Wimbledon’s green spaces, woodland and heath before entering **Richmond Park**, with its open landscapes, ancient trees and deer. We then continue towards Richmond and finish beside the **River Thames**. ## 📍 MEETING **Wimbledon Station** **10:30 AM** We leave at **10:40 AM sharp**. ## 🌳 EXPECT 🌲 Woodland and commons 🦌 Richmond Park & deer 🌾 Open parkland 🌊 River Thames 👥 Friendly social group ## 🎟️ PRICE **FREE** There is no event fee and you do not need to be a member of Hiking in London Club. Just RSVP and join us. ## 🎒 BRING • Walking shoes or boots • Waterproof jacket • Water • Lunch and snacks • Warm layer Children are welcome with a responsible adult. Dogs are also welcome but must be kept under control, especially around deer in Richmond Park. Our walk leaders are first-aid trained and carry a first aid kit. **Hiking in London Club** Exploring London and the British countryside together since 2016.