Outdoors

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 14 miles (22km) • Grading: [Intermediate/Challenging](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 580m • Hiking time: 5.5 to 6.5 hours • Cost: £32 (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 8:20am, leave 8:40am for the 8:54am train • Return: 7:36pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Hike the **most spectacular coastal trail in Southern England** — the famous Seven Sisters • A great physical challenge with options to self shorten if needed • Enjoy **breathtaking cliff-top views** for much of the hike • Pass **Birling Gap** and the iconic **Belle Tout Lighthouse** • Finish in **Eastbourne — England’s sunniest town** • Explore the **South Downs National Park** — the newest in the UK 🥾 **Hike Description** This is Outdooraholics’ most popular hike, a dramatic and exhilarating journey across the chalk cliffs of Sussex that we have been leading for over 12 years. The **Seven Sisters** are a spectacular series of gleaming white chalk cliffs formed at the end of the last Ice Age by glacial meltwater. Erosion has since created an “eighth sister,” and today the cliffs stand as one of England’s most iconic landscapes. We begin in the coastal town of **Seaford**, home to a Napoleonic-era **Martello Tower** built in 1810 as part of a chain of 103 coastal defences against French invasion. From here, the trail climbs onto the cliff tops, where for much of the day we walk high above the sea, treated to endless coastal views and fresh sea air. Our route follows the **South Downs Way**, passing through **Birling Gap** and past the striking **Belle Tout Lighthouse**, famously moved 17 metres inland in 1999 to save it from falling into the sea. The final highlight is **Beachy Head**, a dramatic beauty spot with sheer chalk cliffs dropping into the sea below. We finish in **Eastbourne**, statistically England’s sunniest town, where we celebrate our coastal adventure with refreshments in a local pub. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [LYUBAVA](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07883 405294 🍽️ **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) **Cliffs – danger** There are sheer drops off the cliffs and some of these soft chalk cliffs are crumbling at the edges with chunks regularly falling and no fencing in place. Please keep at least 3 metres away from the edges. If you fall, or the ground at the edge of the cliff collapses it will almost certainly be fatal. © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

Please note the slightly later start time on this one. Brian (a former member) was going to do this walk four years ago, but a lot of people thought it was too far. Now that we've been to Shenfield, I thought I'd have another go at going that one station further to Billericay in order to do something different for Easter So, it is one stop on from Shenfield, which is on the Elizabeth Line from Liverpool St. Shenfield is covered on your over 60's Oyster/freedom passes, so you'll only have to pay for one station if you have a free pass. If you are driving, there is a free car park very nearby in Lake Meadows Park, which is open until 9pm. Walk a few minutes over to the station for 11.30am. The meet point is outside Billericay Station at 11.30am. We'll be going through Lake Meadows, and on through Norsey Woods to Break Egg Hill . We will then pass through Norsey Meadows and exit the woods through the Norsey Close. We'll then head for the (optional) pub for some well deserved food and/or drink. Non-pubbers have got a few mins walk to the station. Norsey Wood is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), a Scheduled Ancient Monument and a Local Nature Reserve. Apparently the paths there date back to the Iron Age. I ask for a nominal contribution of £2 to help cover Meetup organiser fees. Or you can pay £4 to cover the rest of April (hopefully three more walks). Some pay £20 to cover a half-year. No shrapnel please. RISK WARNING/DISCLAIMER: Please remember that as with any physical activity, there can be dangers associated with hiking/walking, especially around waterways, forests, farms and countryside. Your decision to voluntarily participate in this activity is an informed decision. and by attending this event you agree and accept to take sole responsibility for your own actions, your own safety, and your own belongings. Please dress appropriately, including sturdy shoes. Please bring any necessary medication with you. You will need to be sufficiently fit to walk several miles at a moderate pace. We may occasionally cross or walk short distances on roads; country and woodland tracks can be muddy or slippery; animals may be encountered on occasion. INSURANCE: If either yourself or any guests you bring along require insurance for this walk, then you must arrange this yourselves. GUESTS: If you are bringing any guests along, there is no facility on the Meetup site to record their details. Please ensure that you make them fully aware of the Risk Warning/Disclaimer and Insurance statements.

A very popular guided walk and tour with Barrie **BATTERSEA .**....the new and the old This is more than the usual guided walk, this is an afternoon out as Barrie takes you on a journey from Vauxhall to Battersea Park and takes you through a modern history of an area that is about to become Londons newest and most vibrant destinations. Part one journeys along the riverside taking in the new American Embassy and other interesting sites and arrives at the regenerated Battersea power station where Barrie will tell you all about its history and the massive new development. Part two allows the group to wander, maybe have a snack or a coffee and take in the new Power station complex and immerse oneself in the brilliance of what has been accomplished in the amazing redevelopment of the area.....30 mins allowed.....maybe not enough !! Part three takes us into one of Londons most beautiful yet un appreciated parks where you will be told about the history of its golden years as one of Londons greatest attractions long since forgotten until now as Barrie brings it all back to life with photos and stories of his youth and his memories of great days out back in the 1950's This is the tour of tours, one you will be talking about for weeks! *warning.....this is a long walk and the whole experience* *will take over three hours* And the price is £14 cash on the day. (sorry inflation is hitting hard) for questions and queries contact Barrie on 07860 911393 by phone or text \*JOIN OUR 45+ NOT GRUMPY FACEBOOK COMMUNITY \* <[https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/](https://www.facebook.com/45plusnotgrumpy/)>

Hey, Hey, Hey! It is bank holiday and what do we do on bank holidays? We join me on a fabulous trip. :) This is one of the most fantastic coastal trips in the country and we are doing an easier version of it. There will be a few inclines but nothing like the nearby Seven sisters that you will see in the background so if you would like to enjoy walking in a living painting, join me for this trip. We will start and finish in the seaside town of Seaford, walk these gorgeous woods of Friston alongside pretty cottages and flowery gardens before we head back to Seaford for a well deserved diner or a pint or to London if you do not wish to stay along for some more laughter. And last but not least, the view of the Cuckmere river sneaking in the valley all the way to the sea is my favourite postcard view in the country, you could almost hear Vivaldi playing Spring in the background while unicorns and fauns are galloping in the fresh water. Really, do not miss it. The hike is around 11 miles and medium, although there will be a couple of inclines. A BIT OF HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHY. FRISTON FOREST: Friston Forest is within the South Downs National Park between Lulington Heath National Nature Reserve and Seven Sisters Country Park. It is the largest area of recently established forest in South East England, it has extensive carpets of Bluebells in late April to mid-May and some of the most stunning autumnal colours at the fall. CUCKMERE HAVEN: It is an area of flood plains in Sussex, England where the river Cuckmeer meets the English Chanel between [Eastbourne](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eastbourne) and [Seaford](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seaford,_East_Sussex). The river is an example of a meandering river The beach was commonly used by smugglers in the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries. For example, in 1783 two gangs of smugglers (each numbering 200 or 300) overcame officers of the law by weight of numbers and carried away a large quantity of goods. It is one of the most visited beaches in the UK. PICTURE PERFECT: The Haven and the nearby cliffs offer some of the most stunning photographs you will ever take, the purple sea thrift flowers adding an impeccable touch to the white and red cliffs INFORMATION: DISTANCE: About 11 miles/16km TIME: about 5 hours TRANSPORT: By train; we will buy an off peak group days return that will allow us to save 35%on the ticket price. Please ensure that you bring £25 in cash MEETING POINT: Victoria station at 9am PRICE: £17 ( for the guide's fee) via PayPal or credit/debit card About £27 in cash for the train or via bank transfer to Wendy INCLUDED: Guided hike A fun day out with lovely people NOT INCLUDED: Transport Anything else not mentioned above WHAT TO BRING: Waterproof shoes for the hike, preferably hiking shoes, otherwise good trainers; Weather appropriate clothes, including waterproofs if there is a chance of rain; Water bottle; Packed lunch and snacks. PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOU CHECK THIS PAGE AGAIN 2 DAYS BEFORE DEPARTURE AS THE DEPARTURE STATION IS ONLY CONFIRMED BY SW TRAINS ON THE THURSDAY OR FRIDAY. ATTENTION: Our trips will not be cancelled due to weather conditions so please ensure that you do wear and carry appropriate clothing. 😄 POLICIES: 1: This group is designed for the pleasure and enjoyment of all of us, we do not accept any derogatory comments or behaviours towards anyone. Racism, discrimination and other unacceptable behaviours will only lead to your rejection of any of our trips and this is without exception. Everyone is welcome, we have religious and non-religious people, gay, straight, bisexual people, all shades and colours or nationalities, people of all ages, sex and political beliefs and mutual respect is the fundamental spirit of this group. 2: Our trips are only refundable up to 30 days before departure, if you wish to cancel after that, you will be offered a transfer to another trip for the same price or you may resell your slot to somebody else. 3: If we do cancel the entirety of the trip on our site, you will be fully refunded. 4:In the eventuality that our trains are delayed, or cancelled which is out of my control, I do not pay for taxis or alternative route, if this happens, you will be able to claim delay repay from the train companies who will reimburse your train ticket and some eventual costs occurred. By signing up to my events, you agree to this.

**Workout with PRIDE (Functional Strength) at Marshall Street, just around the corner from Carnaby S**treet! 💪🌈 Join us for our weekly **WorkOUT With PRIDE** class, designed to boost your functional strength and improve your body’s ability to move efficiently as a whole. Our sessions focus on exercises that engage all planes of movement, incorporating both bodyweight and equipment-based resistance to build strength and coordination. This class is suitable for all fitness levels, so if you’re new, no worries! We’ll break down the big compound movements step by step, ensuring you feel confident before diving into the full workout. At *Workout with Pride*, our goal is for you to leave feeling accomplished, empowered, and more knowledgeable about your fitness journey. 💥 **Class Details:** * **Location:** Marshall St, London W1F 7EL**Time:** Please arrive by **6:30 pm** (changed and ready to go) * **What to Expect:** Full access to changing rooms and showers post-class. Don’t forget to bring a towel and some change for the lockers! When you arrive, just head to reception and let them know you’re there for **Workout with PRIDE**.

**Time: 10:00am** **Location: Liverpool Street Station (Outside McDonalds)** **Cost: Pay your own travel (Metropolitan line)** Welcome back everyone!! After a long hiatus we will be running a series of events over the next few months. Join us for an Easter Bank Holiday Photography hike (easy pace) through the beautiful Chilterns (Chess Valley). Highlights include: * Beautiful scenery (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) * Bluebell Forest * Panoramic Views * Nature * **Things to bring** Comfy footwear Bottle of water Phone (charged) Camera (charged) Spare Battery Spare Memory Snacks DISCLAIMER: By attending this event you remain responsible for your own personal belongings and safety.

Have you ever wanted to be immersed within either the city or nature in the form of a walk and socialise at the same time? If so, this may be the right walk for you. Welcome to another one of the WALK events where you have the opportunity to explore all the scenic routes I’ll execute whether there’s nature within, whether we get immersed within the city and feel great about yourself. 

With this particular walk, we will be walking through the entirety of Holland Park. What was once rural Kensington has become a beautiful local landmark which has not only survived WW2 but also offers the beautiful elements of nature including a Kyoto Garden. After this walk, we’ll be heading to Badiani’s for some Italian gelato if you wish. Badiani’s is an Italian business specialised in gelato and any other delicacies. They began since 1932 and arrived in the Uk since 2016. If you were to look at their treats, you could say it feels like ‘Charlie and the chocolate factory’. To find out more, check out their website at https://www.badiani1932.com My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy 

Starting point: Holland Park
Ending point: Badiani
Walking length: 2 miles
Duration: 1 hour +
Required clothing: Smart casual, comfortable shoes and a jacket in case it gets cold
Departure: 20 minutes after the meeting time. 

WHAT - Walk through Holland Park
WHERE - Holland Park
WHEN - 6pm - 9pm
MEETING POINT - Outside Holland Park Station
NEAREST STATION - Holland Park Station
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk. Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. If you ask a question that either already has the answer to it or doesn’t relate to the event at all, I won’t respond. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

Have you ever wanted to be immersed within either the city or nature in the form of a walk and socialise at the same time? If so, this may be the right walk for you. Welcome to another one of the WALK events where you have the opportunity to explore all the scenic routes I’ll execute whether there’s nature within, whether we get immersed within the city and feel great about yourself. 



With this particular walk, we will be walking from Elephant & Castle to Brixton. It’s a high road & transitional walk from south east to south west. We get immersed with the Latin American ambiance & culture in the south east and transition to the Afro Caribbean culture in the south west. The best of both worlds I’ll say. After this walk, we will be heading to pop Brixton if you wish. Pop Brixton is another box park which includes so many food vendors, entertainment, music and a wide chill out area. Their food is really good and you can say it outclasses some of the box parks out there. To check out more, here’s their website: https://www.popbrixton.org My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy 



Starting point: Elephant & Castle
Ending point: Brixton
Walking length: 2.4 miles
Duration: 1 hour +
Required clothing: Smart casual, comfortable shoes and a jacket in case it gets cold
Departure: 20 minutes after the meeting time. 



WHAT - Walk from Elephant & Castle to Brixton
WHERE - Elephant & Castle/Brixton
WHEN - 6:30pm - 9pm
MEETING POINT - Outside Elephant & Castle Station
NEAREST STATION - Elephant & Castle Station
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour is all and whatever is listed above for the walk. Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. If you ask a question that either already has the answer to it or doesn’t relate to the event at all, I won’t respond. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. This walk may involve passing through some certain areas so if you do feel uncomfortable and/or uncertain in partaking in the walk, I totally understand. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

**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](https://www.metropolitan-walkers.org.uk/how-to-join/)** With the evenings getting longer we can walk around Regents Park after 19:00 once again. We will then move on to Primrose Hill before heading to Finchley Road to the pub at the end. **Leisurely \| 3 miles / 4\.8 km** **Start: Baker Street tube (zone 1).** **Meet outside the station on Baker Street itself by Boots @ 07:00 pm** Postcode: NW1 5LJ **End: Finchley Road station (zone 2)** Postcode: NW6 3BT

Hello path-beaters and foot-padders! Once again it's that time again: Spring is in the air, or at least it will be (have been?) by the time we touch down in east London for another big step down **The Greenway on April 12th, 2026.** It was with this hidden gem of an urban nature trail that we kicked off last year's smash-hit nature walking series. Longtime LCC-ers will remember that we didn't actually get very far down the Greenway, thanks to the torturous interference of some no-good developers who put a big fence and a "GREENWAY CLOSED" sign in our way. We diverted and had a lovely hike anyway, but this time we'll be ready. The Greenway was once known as the Northern Outfall Sewer, a raised sewer line designed to whisk away the industrial filth of London during the height of the Industrial Revolution. At the start of the 20th century, it was sealed up and turned into a linear park for the enjoyment of working-class east London, over which it passes today - from Fish Island all the way over East Ham and on down to Silvertown and the end of the Woolwich Peninsula. We'll try to cover the whole distance, for a walk of about 3-3.5 hours. The weather should be alright - who can say - but do bring a wind layer and possibly some protection from light rains. Good walking shoes and boots are handy, but this trail shouldn't have much or any mud, since it's paved in quite a few places. A snack or lunch is worth bringing too, but we'll aim for a pub at the end somewhere. There are bathroom facilities at Hackney Wick, our starting point, as well as at a couple cafes at situated on the eastern end of the route. Along the way we'll see gorgeous views of the River Lea with its branches, canal sections and forests as well as the Olympic parklands of Hackney and Stratford. To top that off, we'll have a near birds-eye view of the changing human landscape with all the big fuck-off construction sites of Bow Goods Yard, Sweetwater, Pudding Mill etc - a veritable tour of the gentrification process as it rolls on in east London! Natural beauty and political-economic field research - a winning combination, so do join us. Take care and see you on the trail!

Starting in **Seaford**, we follow the coastal path past a historic **Martello Tower** before climbing onto **Seaford Head**, where wide views open across the **English Channel**. The trail rises and falls along the chalk cliffs before dropping into the **Cuckmere Estuary**, a protected wildlife area and our lunch stop near the visitor centre. In the afternoon, we join the **South Downs Way** and enter **Seven Sisters Country Park**, climbing steeply to the trig point at **Cliff End**. From here, we follow the cliff edge over the iconic **Seven Sisters** to **Birling Gap**, then climb past **Belle Tout Lighthouse** and continue to **Beachy Head**, the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain. We finish by descending to the coast and walking the **Victoria Promenade** into **Eastbourne**, where you can join the group for food and drinks or head straight home by train. *** **Grade:** Intermediate / Challenging **Distance:** 22 km / 13 miles **Ascent:** approx. 670 m **Hiking Time:** 6.5 – 7 hours (including breaks) *** ### Schedule & Meeting Info **Meeting Time:** 08:20 – London Victoria Station near the information booth Platform 12 **Trains:** 08:54 London Victoria → Seaford (via Lewes) Arrival: 10:19 Journey time: approx. 1 hr 25 min (1 change at Lewes) **Tickets:** Return to Eastbourne 🚆 Train fare is **not included** – please purchase your own return ticket, in advance or on the day **Hike Start:** 10:30 – Seaford Station **Hike Finish:** Approx. 18:00 – Eastbourne **Return Trains:** Frequent services to London Victoria **What to Bring** ✅ Hiking boots or sturdy shoes ✅ Waterproof jacket & layers ✅ Packed lunch, snacks & water ✅ Sun protection (exposed cliffs) ✅ Train ticket / Railcard *** ### 👣 **Hike Leader:** Gary 📱 07968585224 📧 golondongary@hotmail.co.uk *** ### 💚 **Stay Connected** 📱 WhatsApp: 07968585224 📩 Mailing List: [https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk/contact](https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk/contact) 🌐 Website: [https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk](https://www.golondonhiking.co.uk) 👥 Meetup: [https://www.meetup.com/GO-London](https://www.meetup.com/GO-London) 🎟️ Eventbrite Page: [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/go-london-hiking-17576718759](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/go-london-hiking-17576718759) 📸 Instagram: @golondonhiking 👍 Facebook Page: [https://www.facebook.com/GoLondonAdventure/](https://www.facebook.com/GoLondonAdventure/) 👥 Facebook Group: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoLondonHiking/](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoLondonHiking/) 📜 **Terms & Conditions** By signing up, you agree to our full T&Cs including our cancellation and refund policy. [https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XSic4Aj9VJguTQuiWrTd6I1A-EmvmQCqCHggB0omlX8/edit?usp=sharing](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XSic4Aj9VJguTQuiWrTd6I1A-EmvmQCqCHggB0omlX8/edit?usp=sharing)

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 14 miles (22km) • Grading: [Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 450m • 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, at the lunch 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 8:45am for the 8:55am train • Return: 6:36pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Hike through the lush **Bourne Valley** in the Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty • Pass the vast **Fairlawne Estate** — a 17th-century mansion now home to a Saudi Prince and once used for royal horse training • Follow the **Greensand Ridge** and hike along sections of the historic **Greensand Way** • Visit **Old Soar Manor** — a 13th-century knight’s dwelling and English Heritage site • Admire traditional **Kentish cobnut orchards** and colourful apple orchards • Explore ancient hamlets, mills and woodlands including the historic **Basted Mill** site • Visit **Shipbourne Common**, a designated Special Landscape Area 🥾 **Hike Description** Our adventure begins at **Borough Green**, whose heritage stretches back over 2000 years. From here, we follow the tranquil **River Bourne**, meandering through orchards, meadows, and the rare Kentish cobnut groves. The trail soon ascends into **Yopps Green**, where we pause to enjoy sweeping views across the valley’s patchwork of fields and woodland. Continuing along the **Greensand Ridge**, we pass historic hamlets and mills before arriving at the magnificent **Fairlawne Estate**. This grand 17th-century country mansion sits within over 1,000 acres of parkland and gardens. Once famed as the training ground for Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother’s horses, today it is the private residence of a Saudi Prince. After lunch, our route carries us deeper into the valley past the remnants of Kent’s milling heritage, where rivers once powered a chain of **paper mills** for centuries. We then make our way through shady chestnut woodland to reach **Old Soar Manor**, a 13th-century fortified knight’s dwelling preserved by English Heritage. The final stage of the hike leads us past the dramatic gorge of the River Bourne and the atmospheric remains of **Basted Mill**, before crossing **Shipbourne Common**, a Special Landscape Area, and returning from this rich blend of history, landscapes and hidden gems in the heart of Kent. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [KEVIN](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07918 329854 🍽️ **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

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 9 miles (14km) • Grading: [Beginners](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) with one main hill that we take gently • Ascent: 140m • 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 lunch stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Liverpool Street station. Meet in front of the Information point in the centre of the station - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LiverpoolStreet.jpg) & [PHOTO](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LiverpoolStreetPhoto.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:40am, leave 9am for the 9:15am train • Return: 5:33pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • **Hadleigh Country Park** \- one of the largest in Essex • **Hadleigh Castle** \- enchanting 13th\-century ruins • **Estuary island of Two Tree Island Nature Reserve** \- a sanctuary for birdlife and marine species • **Leigh-on-Sea** \- often ranked as one of the best places to live in the UK\, a historic fishing town famous for its freshly caught cockles \- a local delicacy • Sweeping views of **the River Thames** estuary throughout the trail • Spot iconic bird species like herons, kestrels and peregrines, for all full list of birds you can see and seasons - [LINK](https://www.ebws.org.uk/birdsites/two-tree-island-leigh-sea) • Remnants of local fishing traditions at the **"Graveyard of Lost Species"** 🥾 **Hike Description** Our hike begins as we follow scenic trails into **Hadleigh Country Park**, a sprawling 387-acre area of meadows, marshes, and woodlands recognized for its natural beauty and biodiversity. We ascend toward **Hadleigh Castle**, perched atop a ridge with captivating views over the Thames Estuary. Built in the 13th century, the castle was a strategic defensive position and later immortalised in a painting by John Constable. We pause to soak in the panoramic views and immerse ourselves in Essex’s medieval past that has inspired artists and writers for centuries. Continuing along the **Thames Estuary Path**, we journey toward **Two Tree Island**, a 634-acre nature reserve surrounded by saltmarsh and tidal mudflats. This peaceful island is crucial for various bird species, providing winter refuge for migratory birds. It is a haven for birdlife, including avocets, brent geese, and Mediterranean gulls. Finally, we arrive in **Leigh-on-Sea**, a charming seaside town with a proud fishing heritage that still continues today. Known for its vibrant maritime culture and delicious cockles and often ranked as one of the best places to live in the UK, Leigh-on-Sea offers the perfect end to our hike, we have time to explore and also enjoy a drink in a coastal pub. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [PAUL](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07873 221480 🍽️ **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

[Old School Groove](https://www.facebook.com/OldSchoolGrooveBand/) \- Vintage rock\, southern rock\, blues\, reggae\. Originals mixed with 60s & 70s classics\. Getcha groove on\! **[Flint Station](https://www.theflintstation.com/)** is an old depot venue for drinks and live music. They usually have a **bbq food truck** on location. Feel free to bring your own takeout. I'll bring a basket of snacks. NO COVER *They're planning for a beautiful summer evening performance in the beer garden. However, if the weather doesn't cooperate...they will be upstairs in the old-time dance hall. Either way...it's going to be a night to remember!!* **PARKING**: either near the beer garden or across the street.

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.