Otford Circular (new start/train times)

Note: some trains will run despite strike but start time & departure station/train time has had to be changed since this walk was first published.

Moderately paced 11 (or 7) mile walk. 

Wonderful  walk with many stunning views from the North Downs on undulating terrain throughout much of the route with some vigorous climbs/ descents; passing historic churches, lovely towns/ villages, over wooded valleys and through meadows, by the banks of the Darent  River as we join the Darent Valley Path after Shoreham

Route: On leaving Otford Station we join the North Downs Way to go up towards the Downs then through Rodow & Shorehill Woods & Whiteleaf Down with many viewing points before a brief stop at the unusual Rising Sun Pub at Cotman’s Ash. On our way to Romney Street we pass the church of St Mary, before crossing an abandoned golf course. From here our route takes us down a path with great views of London before descending via steps at White Hill to the Darent Valley & Shoreham village. After our stop in Shoreham we continue alongside the river, then up to Meenfield Wood. On leaving the wood, we descend through a meadow  with fabulous views of the Greensand Hills before rejoining the Darent Valley Way as we enter Otford to end the walk at the station.

Lunch Stop: Early refreshment pause at The Rising Sun, Cotman’s Ash - no food served at pub. Picnic lunch/ refreshments at Shoreham  & further refreshment opportunities at end of walk in Otford.

Drop-out Point: Shoreham Rail Station - 7 miles into the walk for trains to Blackfriars or London Bridge. 

Meet at Otford Rail Station on platform 2 at 10.20.

Travel: Blackfriars 09.16 - Thameslink Sevenoaks train - arr Otford 10.18.

Ticket/Fare: Buy Off-Peak Return to Otford. Freedom Pass holders buy from Swanley.

Finish: Otford Rail Station. Estimated finish time 17.00.

Please note: the finish time may be different from above as many factors on day of walk such as unexpected incidents, train delays, refreshment breaks etc will determine the actual finish time.

Leader: Maeve K - (walk day only - 07811 094 646).