The London-based hiking group for people in their 20s - 30s.
Stuart B.
A fast-paced walk that explores some of the lesser-used parts of the North Downs around Farningham Woods, and then goes along the picturesque Darent Valley - passing through the attractive villages of Farningham, Eynsford and Shoreham. If the weather is good to us and it is a clear day, then there will be plenty of great views throughout the walk. It is also likely to be muddy in places due to the time of year - especially if it rains immediately before or during the walk. The lunch stop will be at the halfway point of the walk at Eynsford 'Castle', however there are no facilities there other than plenty of ancient walls to sit on, but there are a couple of pubs nearby for drinks only. The intention is to walk at a fast pace (at least 3mph average) to finish before it gets completely dark, but please bring a head torch just in case.
Please bring a packed lunch.
An undulating walk with a total ascent of 700 metres. Pub at the end of the walk, it is then another mile to the end point from the pub (this is included in total distance), but that is mainly along urban roads.
OPTIONAL DROP OUT POINTS: For anyone wanting an undulating, fast-paced walk but may not want to do the full distance, the walk passes Eynsford Railway Station (10.5 miles distance) and Shoreham Railway Station (14.5 miles distance) which are on the same railway line as the end point with direct trains to Bromley South and London Blackfriars.
TRANSPORT: Take the 9:29 from London Charing Cross (Waterloo East 9:32, London Bridge 9:38), arrive at Swanley at 9:59.
IMPORTANT: Meet at the exit on the north side / platform 4 side of Swanley Railway Station - not the main entrance. Buy a return to Otford - there are direct trains to London Bridge, Charing Cross and Victoria from Otford.
Swanley Station
Otford
