The London-based hiking group for people in their 20s - 30s.
Stuart B.
A fast paced walk that starts along the River Stour and passes along the rolling hills and through woodland to the south of the city of Canterbury, and then ending in Canterbury city centre where the Christmas Market, lights and various other festivities will be in full swing. A few other highlights include the picturesque village of Bridge, which should also have its Christmas lights on (these are usually lit up trees along both sides of its high street), the equally picturesque Fordwich - Britain's smallest town, where there is also an unspoilt church open to have a look around (if we get there by 3pm). Last but not least, the walk will take a public footpath that goes through the middle of Howletts Wild Animal Park and next to the elephant enclosure, often offering a better view of the elephants than being in the park itself.
The intention is to walk at a fast pace (at least an average of 3mph) to try to minimise the time spent walking in the dark, but please bring a head torch as the last few miles are likely to be in the dark. It is also likely to be muddy in places. The total distance includes back to West Station, which will be a mile from where the walk will officially finish - a straightforward walk through the city centre (and past the Cathedral entrance gate - which will be open to all at that time, the main Cathedral itself will be closed by then). Total Elevation is only 283 metres.
Bring a packed lunch. The lunch stop will be just after the halfway point in the village of Bridge in the Recreation Ground, where there is a pub around the corner for drinks only.
Transport: The cheaper (but slower) option is the 8:34 from London Charing Cross (Waterloo East: 8:37, London Bridge: 8:43, Sevenoaks: 9:08, Ashford International: 9:56) arriving at Canterbury West at 10:18.
Or the quicker (but more expensive) option is the High Speed 9:07 from St Pancras International (Stratford International 9:14) which arrives at Ashford International at 9:45, and then join the above train which departs Ashford International at 9:56.
Direct regional and high speed trains back to London from Canterbury West.
Buy a return to Canterbury Stations, but make sure to buy a ticket valid on HS1 if taking the high speed. Meet just outside the main entrance at Canterbury West.
Canterbury West Station
