FREE WALK : Happy Valley and Farthing Down Walk in suburbs of London, (Surrey)
Details
This walk from Riddlesdown to South Coulsdon takes you through a remarkably unspoilt stretch of countryside. It features Farthing Down, Kenley Common, Riddlesdown, and Coulsdon Common—ancient grazing lands lovingly preserved as part of the London Greenbelt. Together, they form a charming landscape of woodlands and open spaces.
Spring is a great time to visit—there are loads of wildflowers, including a few spots with amazing bluebell woods.
The preservation of these commons is a result of the foresight shown by the Corporation of London, which began acquiring land in and around the city in the 1880s to support good health and give Londoners a place of recreation. In the early 1900s, thousands of day trippers would escape the city to enjoy picnics on these verdant spaces and visit Gardner's fairground on Riddlesdown. Today, all four commons remain rich in wildflowers each spring and provide important habitats for a variety of birds and insects.
Happy Valley is a Site of Special Scientific Interest for its flora and as a habitat for ground nesting birds such as larks. Visit Chaldon Church to see its remarkable medieval wall painting dating back to the Middle Ages.
MEETING POINT & TIME
Where: Victoria Train Station at 10:10 am for 10:21am train or meet us in Riddlesdown Train station at 10:50 am
HIKE STARTS: Riddlesdown Train Station at 10:50 am
HIKE FINISHES: Coulsdon South
LENGTH & CHALLENGE
Length: 17 Kms , Walk time: 5 to 5.5 hours (Including break)
Toughness: Easy/Moderate Ascent: 300m
Hike Leader: Raj 07788839784
Riddlesdown and Coulsdon South both are london zone 6, you can use Oyster and contactless card(remember to touch in and out)
What to Bring:
Comfortable hiking shoes/boots, Weather-appropriate clothing.
Lunch, snacks, and plenty of water at least one ltr.
FREE WALK : Happy Valley and Farthing Down Walk in suburbs of London, (Surrey)