Darent Valley Circular (18 miles/Strenuous)

Metropolitan Walkers is part of the Ramblers, Britain's walking charity. All welcome for 3 'taster' walks, after which please join the Ramblers - info on the Met Walkers website

A brisk walk criss-crossing the picturesque Darent Valley. The lunch stop will be at around 9 miles' distance at Lullingstone Country Park where there are toilets and a cafe. A total ascent of over 750 metres made up by some individually steep climbs - also aiming for an average pace of around 3.3 mph if conditions are dry, so a good level of fitness is required.

Please bring a packed lunch. Pub at the end of the walk.

OPTIONAL DROP OUT POINTS: for those wanting the challenge of a fast walk with some steep climbs, but not sure whether to commit to the full distance, the walk passes Eynsford Station (6 miles distance) and Shoreham Station (14 miles distance).

Travel: Take the 9:29 from London Charing Cross (Waterloo East: 9:32, London Bridge 9:38) arrive at Otford at 10:07.

Meet outside the main station building at Otford station.

Buy a return to Otford - those travelling from inside the London zones can use contactless (but not Oyster), though it is not possible to get a railcard discount this way.

Grading: Strenuous.
For an explanation of the gradings, please see the FAQ - please consider both the length and grade when choosing a walk.

Finish point: Otford Station
More info: https://www.ramblers.org.uk/go-walking/group-walks/darent-valley-circular-1