What we’re about
Hey there! Welcome to my hiking group!
This group is for people 18 years old and over.
I set up this group in January 2023. My aim is to organise day hikes so that people can get together and enjoy nature. Beautiful locations such as the Chiltern Hills, Surrey Hills, North and South Downs, Kent, and even the coast, etc are easily reachable from London in a day by train (or car if preferred). Hiking together in the rolling hills, picturesque countryside, and across dramatic and stunning coastlines with a bunch of like-minded people can be a splendid way to make new friends, have fun, explore new places, and improve your fitness.
I’m passionate about the outdoors. I love travelling and hiking – it’s my hobby. I’ve been hiking in Europe, Canada and all over the UK across many years and I’m always looking for the next thrilling adventure.
If you’re alone, don’t worry!
Many hikers turn up by themselves and it’s a great way to meet new people and make friends.
Hikes:
Hikes will vary in distance and ascent. They will typically be in the 14 - 20 km range but some may be shorter or longer. My personal preference is for hikes around the 14 - 16 km range (around 9 - 10 miles) but this is not always possible. I have also introduced leisurely walks in London aimed at exploring and getting to know the city better - these will be shorter in length and duration to my hikes outside London.
There is usually some ascent as when you're in the countryside you are bound to encounter hilly terrain! Some hikes will be more hilly than others - the ascent will be made clear in the hike description. While the hikes should be suitable for anyone who is reasonably fit, please ensure you are comfortable with the distance and ascent; some hikes may not be suitable for beginners.
The hiking time can vary – it would typically be around 4 to 6 hours but it’s very difficult to be specific as it would depend on the specific details of the hike (length/ascent), weather, pace of the group, and duration of our breaks. Some of the longer and challenging hikes will take more time. There could sometimes be the option to grab some refreshments after a hike (e.g. a pub) – this would be optional and may increase the overall duration of the event.
Pace:
We will NOT be marching along the trails - this is not a race to the finish line. We will hike at a reasonable and moderate pace; there will be breaks. If you're a fast walker, this group may not be for you. My aim is to give everyone the opportunity to soak in the views, enjoy nature, wildlife, take pictures and enjoy each other’s company.
So if you're fun, friendly, polite and respectful and looking to make friends and discover new places then please sign up - I look forward to welcoming you!!
RSVP:
Please maintain proper etiquette when signing up to events. Don't just sign up knowing you may change your mind later; in doing so you're taking up space and potentially preventing someone else from coming along. Please sign up only if you're sure you will definitely attend.
Of course sometimes things happen outside your control and so if you need to drop out please remember to change your RSVP immediately. I do not want members in this group who sign up but don't show up or who sign up and regularly drop out by changing their RSVP - you may be removed from my group if I see this type of inconsiderate behaviour.
I do not allow any pets/dogs on group events.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER / TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
By agreeing to join my group and participate in events, you confirm you have read, understood and accepted the below, including the full Terms and Conditions
I am NOT a qualified hike leader or first aider.
Hiking, walking, and hill walking and essentially all outdoor activities within this group can be risky; there is a risk of personal injury and even death. All participants must be aware of the risks and accept the risks – participants are responsible for their own safety and actions. I, the organiser, am not responsible or liable in any way. All participants agree not to hold me responsible or liable for any injury (or death), damage or losses incurred either directly or indirectly from their participation in group events.
We'll hike through Aldbury Nowers Nature Reserve and onto the Ridgeway National Trail, which is an ancient route that begins at the World Heritage Site of Avebury and passes through the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and Chilterns AONB.
The trail runs across a ridge of chalk hills for 87 miles to reach Ivinghoe Beacon, a prominent viewpoint at 233m. It is popularly known as ‘Britain’s oldest road’ and was used in prehistoric times by travellers, herdsmen and soldiers. We will be hiking a small undulating stretch of the Ridgeway National Trail, from Tring to Ivinghoe Beacon.
We'll journey onwards through woods to reach the Bridgewater Monument (part of the Ashridge Estate). At a height of 33m, the Monument (tower) was built in 1832 to commemorate the achievements of Sir Francis Egerton, the third Duke of Bridgewater. Sir Francis was also known as the 'Canal Duke' and the 'father of British inland navigation' as he commissioned the construction of the first canal in Britain.
At the Ashridge Estate, we should hopefully see bluebells everywhere. They are only around for a very short period around this time of the year - a beautiful, stunning, magnificent carpet of blue stretching through the woods that is a sight to behold!! While the bluebells growing wild through the woods is free to admire, there is one specific location on the estate that is one of the best places to view bluebells where the National Trust charges £3.50 - this is optional. There’s a café at the estate where we have the option to obtain refreshments before continuing back to Tring station.
Cost: £4 organiser fee payable on RSVP
Start time: 9:45am
Start location: Tring station - I'll be waiting at the station car park. My mobile: 07951673142.
End location: Tring station
Length: 15km
Ascent: 260m
Time: approx 6 hrs. It’s not possible to guarantee an exact end time as it depends on the weather, pace of the group, and our breaks along the way.
Pace & Difficulty: a reasonable and moderate pace - we will not be zooming along in a mad rush. The aim is to enjoy being outdoors in nature and have a fun, friendly day. While there are some hills and you need to be reasonably fit, the hike is not overly strenuous - it's suitable for beginners.
Transport (train): The 8:54am direct train from London Euston reaches Tring at 9:32am. Check the trains before travel. You could coordinate with other participants and buy a group saver ticket.
Transport (car): If you're driving, there is limited free parking on Beggars Lane, just a few minutes by foot from the station. There is also limited free parking on the main road outside the station. The station has a chargeable car park (check the Terms and Conditions).
Transport (car share): I'll be driving from Ealing, West London and have space for 3 passengers. Contact me directly if you'd like to car share.
What to bring:
Check the weather and bring appropriate gear. A comfortable backpack, waterproof jacket, sufficient food, snacks, and water along with suitable socks and footwear (waterproof hiking boots) are some essentials. Walkways and trails can be steep, muddy, and slippery and boots with ankle support will be useful, as well as hiking poles. Gaitors are handy when its muddy and wet. Carrying waterproof socks in your backpack is a good idea in case your boots get wet from the inside. Don't wear inappropriate clothing such as jeans and sneakers. Remember to carry any medication you may require. If it’s sunny, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen!
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER / TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
By participating, you confirm you have read, understood and accepted the below, including the full Terms and Conditions
I am NOT a qualified hike leader or first aider.
Hiking, walking, and hill walking carry the risk of personal injury and death. Participants must be aware of, and accept, the risks. Participants are responsible for their own safety and actions and agree not to hold me responsible or liable for any injury (or death), damage or losses incurred either directly or indirectly from their participation in group events. This group is for people 18 years old and over.
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Bluebells in the Chiltern Hills - Ridgeway National Trail, Ashridge Estate, 15kmTring Station Car Park, Hertfordshire£4.00
We'll hike through Aldbury Nowers Nature Reserve and onto the Ridgeway National Trail, which is an ancient route that begins at the World Heritage Site of Avebury and passes through the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and Chilterns AONB.
The trail runs across a ridge of chalk hills for 87 miles to reach Ivinghoe Beacon, a prominent viewpoint at 233m. It is popularly known as ‘Britain’s oldest road’ and was used in prehistoric times by travellers, herdsmen and soldiers. We will be hiking a small undulating stretch of the Ridgeway National Trail, from Tring to Ivinghoe Beacon.
We'll journey onwards through woods to reach the Bridgewater Monument (part of the Ashridge Estate). At a height of 33m, the Monument (tower) was built in 1832 to commemorate the achievements of Sir Francis Egerton, the third Duke of Bridgewater. Sir Francis was also known as the 'Canal Duke' and the 'father of British inland navigation' as he commissioned the construction of the first canal in Britain.
At the Ashridge Estate, we should hopefully see bluebells everywhere. They are only around for a very short period around this time of the year - a beautiful, stunning, magnificent carpet of blue stretching through the woods that is a sight to behold!! While the bluebells growing wild through the woods is free to admire, there is one specific location on the estate that is one of the best places to view bluebells where the National Trust charges £3.50 - this is optional. There’s a café at the estate where we have the option to obtain refreshments before continuing back to Tring station.
Cost: £4 organiser fee payable on RSVP
Start time: 9:45am
Start location: Tring station - I'll be waiting at the station car park. My mobile: 07951673142.
End location: Tring station
Length: 15km
Ascent: 260m
Time: approx 6 hrs. It’s not possible to guarantee an exact end time as it depends on the weather, pace of the group, and our breaks along the way.
Pace & Difficulty: a reasonable and moderate pace - we will not be zooming along in a mad rush. The aim is to enjoy being outdoors in nature and have a fun, friendly day. While there are some hills and you need to be reasonably fit, the hike is not overly strenuous - it's suitable for beginners.
Transport (train): The 8:54am direct train from London Euston reaches Tring at 9:32am. Check the trains before travel. You could coordinate with other participants and buy a group saver ticket.
Transport (car): If you're driving, there is limited free parking on Beggars Lane, just a few minutes by foot from the station. There is also limited free parking on the main road outside the station. The station has a chargeable car park (check the Terms and Conditions).
Transport (car share): I'll be driving from Ealing, West London and have space for 3 passengers. Contact me directly if you'd like to car share.
What to bring:
Check the weather and bring appropriate gear. A comfortable backpack, waterproof jacket, sufficient food, snacks, and water along with suitable socks and footwear (waterproof hiking boots) are some essentials. Walkways and trails can be steep, muddy, and slippery and boots with ankle support will be useful, as well as hiking poles. Gaitors are handy when its muddy and wet. Carrying waterproof socks in your backpack is a good idea in case your boots get wet from the inside. Don't wear inappropriate clothing such as jeans and sneakers. Remember to carry any medication you may require. If it’s sunny, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen!IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER / TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
By participating, you confirm you have read, understood and accepted the below, including the full Terms and Conditions
I am NOT a qualified hike leader or first aider.
Hiking, walking, and hill walking carry the risk of personal injury and death. Participants must be aware of, and accept, the risks. Participants are responsible for their own safety and actions and agree not to hold me responsible or liable for any injury (or death), damage or losses incurred either directly or indirectly from their participation in group events. This group is for people 18 years old and over. - Virginia Water - spring colours!! Windsor Great Park and Castle, 19kmVirginia Water Station Cycle Parking, Virginia Water£4.00
This is a beautiful and peaceful hike through Virginia Water and Windsor Great Park to Windsor. Virginia Water is at the southern edge of Windsor Great Park. It was originally conceived as a Royal pleasure ground and its 2 mile long lake is a tranquil haven and very popular.
The Cascade is a 30ft high waterfall close to the tree-lined shores of the lake and is fed directly by it. The Leptis Magna Ruins is close by and showcases columns and pedestals from the ancient Roman city of Leptis Magna. The stones were in the British Museum for a while before finding a home in the park. Interestingly, some of the Harry Potter movies were filmed along the shores of Virginia Water.
On the northern shores of the lake, you will find delightful woods and trails. The Valley Gardens here cover 250 acres of undulating valleys with all kinds of flowers - every season offers a surprise. We should hopefully see the gardens in bloom with a riot of colours that will take your breath away!
As we leave Virginia Water, we make our way into the heart of Windsor Great Park, which has hosted royalty for centuries. It is a beautiful and ancient Royal Park with a landscape of forests, grasslands, lakes and gardens. The Park is home to a large population of ancient oak trees and its 5,000 acres of parkland includes a Deer Park - it is a great place to see deer in their natural environment.
Soak up the iconic view of the Long Walk from the famous Copper Horse statue of King George III – this tree-lined avenue stretches almost 2.5 miles to ancient Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. We will walk this path to Windsor, where you will be able to see magnificent Windsor Castle in all its grandeur. The hike ends at Windsor Promenade along the banks of the river Thames (close to two train stations).
Cost: £4 organiser fee payable on RSVP
Start time: 9:45am
Start location: Virginia Water station. My mobile: 07951673142.
End location: Windsor Promenade SL4 1QT (along the banks of the River Thames and close to Windsor Eton Bridge). This is a convenient location as Windsor and Eton Central station and Windsor and Eton Riverside station are both around a 5-6 minute walk away so you can choose whichever one is suitable for your return journey.
Length: 19km
Ascent: 223m
Time: approx 7 hrs. It’s not possible to guarantee what time we'll finish as it depends on the weather, pace of the group and our breaks along the way.
Pace & Difficulty: a reasonable and moderate pace; we will not be zooming along in a mad rush. The aim is to enjoy the park and lake and have a fun, friendly day. You need to be reasonably fit; there is a moderate level of ascent and the hike is a bit on the long side but nothing overly strenuous - it's suitable for beginners.
Transport: The 8:33am direct train from London Waterloo reaches Virginia Water station at 9:42am. Check the trains before travel. You could coordinate with other participants and buy a group saver ticket.
Transport (car share): I'll be driving from Ealing, West London and have space for 3 passengers. Contact me directly if you'd like to car share.
What to bring:
Check the weather and bring appropriate gear. A comfortable backpack, waterproof jacket, sufficient food, snacks, and water along with suitable socks and footwear (waterproof hiking boots) are some essentials. Walkways and trails can be steep, muddy, and slippery and boots with ankle support will be useful, as well as hiking poles. Gaitors are handy when its muddy and wet. Carrying waterproof socks in your backpack is a good idea in case your boots get wet from the inside. Don't wear inappropriate clothing such as jeans and sneakers. Remember to carry any medication you may require. If it’s sunny, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen!IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER / TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
By participating, you confirm you have read, understood and accepted the below, including the full Terms and Conditions
I am NOT a qualified hike leader or first aider.
Hiking, walking, and hill walking carry the risk of personal injury and death. Participants must be aware of, and accept, the risks. Participants are responsible for their own safety and actions and agree not to hold me responsible or liable for any injury (or death), damage or losses incurred either directly or indirectly from their participation in group events. This group is for people 18 years old and over. - Leith Hill and Rhododendron Wood - colourful blossoms (Surrey Hills AONB), 14kmHolmwood, Dorking£4.00
The Surrey landscape was one of the first to be designated an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). The hills stretch across a quarter of the county of Surrey. The area is rich in wildlife, woodland and attractive market towns and villages.
Our hike will take us past Leith Hill Place, the childhood home of one of England's greatest composers, Ralph Vaughan Williams. We then enter Rhododendron Wood, which was planted in the late 1800s by Caroline Wedgwood, a keen botanist and the elder sister of naturalist Charles Darwin. It contains species from the Himalayas, China and Thailand. In 1944, the wood was bequeathed to the National Trust by Caroline Wedgwood's grandson, Ralph Vaughan Williams.
Today, Rhododendron Wood is a relaxing haven. In May it should be in bloom and ablaze with colour - hopefully we'll see these myriad colours in all their glory!
Leith Hill is the highest point on the Greensand Ridge and, at 294m, the second highest point in southeast England. It is a popular picnic spot, with benches where you can relax and soak up the stunning views. On the summit there is an 18th century Gothic tower. The top of the tower is officially the highest spot in southeast England at 1029ft (313m) - on a good day it is said that you can see many London landmarks such as the Shard, etc. There is a panoramic vista across Surrey and Sussex to the sea some 30 miles distant.
When we leave the tower, we continue through the woods along the ridge and then gradually drop down to complete the loop back to Holmwood station.
Cost: £4 organiser fee payable on RSVP
Start time: 9:55am
Start location: Holmwood station (my mobile: 07951673142)
End location: Holmwood station
Length: 14km
Ascent: 300m
Time: around 5.5 hours. It’s not possible to guarantee an exact end time as it depends on the weather, pace of the group, and our breaks.
Pace/Difficulty: a reasonable and moderate pace; we will not zoom along in a mad rush. There will be breaks. The aim is to enjoy being outdoors in nature and have a fun, friendly day. While there is a moderate level of ascent, it is not overly strenuous and overall the hike is suitable for beginners.
Transport (train): The 8:41am direct train from London Victoria reaches Holmwood station at 9:47am (check the trains before travel). You could coordinate with other participants and buy a group saver ticket.
Transport (car): If you're driving, there is free parking on the side streets close to the station.
Transport (carshare): I’ll be driving from Ealing, West London and have space for 3 passengers. Please contact me if you’d like to carshare.
What to bring:
Check the weather and bring appropriate gear. A comfortable backpack, waterproof jacket, sufficient food, snacks, and water along with suitable socks and footwear (waterproof hiking boots) are some essentials. Walkways and trails can be steep, muddy, and slippery and boots with ankle support will be useful, as well as hiking poles. Gaitors are handy when its muddy and wet. Carrying waterproof socks in your backpack is a good idea in case your boots get wet from the inside. Don't wear inappropriate clothing such as jeans and sneakers. Remember to carry any medication you may require. If it’s sunny, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen!IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER / TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
By participating, you confirm you have read, understood and accepted the below, including the full Terms and Conditions
I am NOT a qualified hike leader or first aider.
Hiking, walking, and hill walking carry the risk of personal injury and death. Participants must be aware of, and accept, the risks. Participants are responsible for their own safety and actions and agree not to hold me responsible or liable for any injury (or death), damage or losses incurred either directly or indirectly from their participation in group events. This group is for people 18 years old and over. - Long Man of Wilmington to coastal cliffs of Seaford Head, 19kmCar Park Berwick Station | APCOA, Polegate£4.00
This absolutely stunning walk starts inland from South Downs National Park to the dramatic chalk sea cliffs of the coast - it will include amazing changing landscapes, hills, valleys, cute villages, walking along the banks of the Cuckmere River, gasping at the incredible beauty of Seaford Head Local Nature Reserve and the sight of the spectacular and legendary Seven Sisters cliffs, and passing two large chalk figures on steep hill slopes along the way: The Long Man of Wilmington and Litlington White Horse.
The Long Man of Wilmington is a 235ft high chalk figure of a man holding two sticks. This mysterious giant guardian of the South Downs has baffled archaeologists and historians for hundreds of years – no one really knows who or why he was carved out of the earth. He continues to remain shrouded in myths and folklore and is one of Sussex's greatest mysteries. The Long Man is Europe’s largest portrayal of the human form and a Scheduled Ancient Monument. It used to be visible only under certain light conditions in the past, until its outline was marked with concrete blocks to make it clearly visible from a distance. During the Second World War, it was painted green to avoid being used as a landmark by enemy aircraft.
Litlington White Horse is 65 ft high and 93 ft long and consists of 6 tons of chalk. It is unclear why this horse was carved out of the hillside. According to the National Trust, the original horse was crafted by some men in 1836. The present horse was carved in 1924 to replace the lost original; it was done by the grandson of one of the men from 1836.
We'll follow the meandering Cuckmere River to where it flows into the English Channel at Cuckmere Haven, a quiet shingle beach dominated by the spectacular white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters to the east (this is a popular film location!). Once you've soaked up the breath-taking view of the vertical cliffs, we'll climb Seaford Head to the west of the beach and admire the world-famous iconic view of the majestic Seven Sisters. This vast area covering Seaford Head cliffs and Cuckmere Valley is the Seaford Head Local Nature Reserve, encompassing many valuable conservation habitats. We'll walk along the cliff-top to reach Seaford on the coast.
IMPORTANT RISK WARNING:
One section of the hike (along Seaford Head), takes place along the top of coastal cliffs which are in a state of constant erosion. There is no proper fencing. Please keep a very safe distance from the edge. It is extremely dangerous to venture too close to the crumbling cliff edges; there are sheer drops here and any fall will almost certainly be fatal.Cost: £4 organiser fee payable on RSVP
Start time: 10:30am
Start location: Berwick (Sussex) station BN26 6TB. My mobile: 07951673142
End location: Seaford’s Esplanade Car Park at the seafront BN25 1JT next to the coastal cliffs and beach huts (Seaford station is a 15min walk away)
Length: 19km
Ascent: 377m
Time: approx 7.5 hrs. It’s not possible to guarantee what time we'll finish as it depends on the weather, pace of the group and our breaks along the way. Please be prepared to dedicate the entire day as the return time cannot be guaranteed. There will be opportunities for refreshments along the way.
Pace/Difficulty: reasonable and moderate pace; we will not zoom along in a mad rush. There will be breaks. The aim is to enjoy nature and have a fun, friendly day. This is a long hike across some hills with a moderate level of ascent and it may not be suitable for absolute beginners.
Transport (train): The 8:54am train from London Victoria reaches Berwick (Sussex) station at 10:25am. Check the trains before travel. You could coordinate with other participants and buy a group saver ticket. This is a linear hike and your return to London is from Seaford station.
Transport (car share): I'll be driving from Ealing, West London and have space for 3 passengers. Contact me directly if you'd like to car share.
What to bring:
Check the weather and bring appropriate gear. A comfortable backpack, waterproof jacket, sufficient food, snacks, and water along with suitable socks and footwear (waterproof hiking boots) are some essentials. Walkways and trails can be steep, muddy, and slippery and boots with ankle support will be useful, as well as hiking poles. Gaitors are handy when its muddy and wet. Carrying waterproof socks in your backpack is a good idea in case your boots get wet from the inside. Don't wear inappropriate clothing such as jeans and sneakers. Remember to carry any medication you may require. If it’s sunny, don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen!IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER / TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
By participating, you confirm you have read, understood and accepted the below, including the full Terms and Conditions
I am NOT a qualified hike leader or first aider.
Hiking, walking, and hill walking carry the risk of personal injury and death. Participants must be aware of, and accept, the risks. Participants are responsible for their own safety and actions and agree not to hold me responsible or liable for any injury (or death), damage or losses incurred either directly or indirectly from their participation in group events. This group is for people 18 years old and over.
