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 West Group Walks Programme

June - September 2019

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WALK TO SEE DONATED GATE West London has used some of the money that we receive through the partnership with Ramblers Holidays to donate a special radar kissing gate to allow easy access to Egypt Woods, South Bucks. Sue Aldridge is leading a walk that goes through it on Wednesday 5th June. Please remember if you book a holiday with Ramblers Holidays to tell them you are a West London member so we can donate some more gates.

SOCIAL EVENT On Thursday 13th June after walking a nice section of the LOOP, there will be the opportunity to join the group for lunch at a Lebanese restaurant in Stanmore. You need to book a place in advance so please see the programme entry for full details.

ANNUAL JOINT WALK WITH THE LONDON BLIND RAMBLERS GROUP This is earlier in the year than usual so please note the date (Sunday 7th July) and if possible come along to give assistance to anyone who needs it and chat with our guests.

LONDON NATIONAL PARK CITY FESTIVAL 20 - 28 JULY We are contributing three walks to this London-wide celebration of the city’s green spaces, highlighting the parks, rivers, canals and two beautifully restored mansions in . For more information about the London National Park City launch, see http://www.nationalparkcity.london/

LONG DISTANCE PATHS We continue with our three very popular LDPs: the Way, the Greensand Way and 1066 Harold’s Way, completing the latter in September and the other two in October. Suggestions about possible LDPs for 2020 would be welcomed.

WALKS BY THE SEA It’s summer, so why not enjoy a day at the coast? See the Eastbourne circular on 22nd June, Seaford Circular via Newhaven 31st July and Portsmouth to Havant via Hayling Island on 14th September.

THE ROUND EALING CIRCULAR (TREC) The walk with the London Blind Ramblers Group and the three walks for the London National Park City week are part of a larger project that a small group of people has been working on to develop a complete circular around the borough of Ealing. It is planned to launch it in the autumn by walking the whole route over a weekend. Watch out for more details and if you’d like to get involved, contact Jackie Gower.

POP-UP WALKS If you would like to offer a walk, perhaps to fill a gap you’ve spotted on the programme or even just because the weather forecast looks good, please get in touch with the Programme Co-ordinator ([email protected], 07796 264917). Details will be posted on the web-site and circulated by email to those members who have given their consent to receive communications from us. GENERAL GUIDANCE ON OUR WALKS

Before going on a walk, please check our web-site on www.westlondonramblers.org.uk in case there have been any changes to train times or other important details since the programme was published. You could also use the new Ramblers App now available for android and Apple phones (see back cover for more details). Train times can also be checked by phoning enquiries on 03457 484 950 or www.nationalrail.co.uk This is especially important in view of the extensive engineering work taking place across the network over the summer and the rolling out of new timetables by several companies.

Please also ensure you bring plenty of water and even if you are planning to eat in a pub or café it is advisable to bring some snacks just in case it is unexpectedly closed or very busy.

We have adopted the Ramblers Association classification of the level of difficulty of walks.

 Easy - walks for anyone who does not have a mobility difficulty, a specific health problem or is seriously unfit. Suitable for pushchairs if they can be lifted over occasional obstructions. Comfortable shoes or trainers can be worn.  Leisurely - walks for reasonably fit people with at least a little country walking experience. May include unsurfaced rural paths. Walking boots and warm, waterproof clothing are recommended.  Moderate - walks for people with country walking experience and a good level of fitness. May include some steep paths and open country, and may be at a brisk pace. Walking boots and warm, waterproof clothing are essential.  Strenuous - walks for experienced country walkers with an above average fitness level. May include hills and rough country, and may be at a brisk pace. Walking boots and warm, waterproof clothing are essential.

Please note that ‘leisurely’ may be a bit misleading as although the terrain is easier than on a ‘moderate’ walk, the pace is usually the normal one for West London Group walks, ie about 2.5 miles per hour.

‘Moderate’ is also a rather broad category so on the programme we have added ‘hilly’ to those walks where there are significant ascents and descents and ‘brisk’ where the pace will be a bit faster.

The group has to keep together so please give some thought to your level of fitness when choosing a walk. If you are unsure whether a walk is suitable for you, please contact Jackie Gower (details below) for advice. If on the day a leader is worried that someone isn’t able to keep up with the rest of the group and complete the walk in the time available, s/he is entitled to ask them to drop out at a suitable place where transport is available to a station or town.

Please remember that although our leaders will do all they can to ensure a safe and enjoyable walk for all, everyone walks at their own risk and is responsible for their own safety. Walking is undoubtedly one of the safest outdoor activities but it is still a sensible precaution to carry emergency contact and medical details with you and a simple first aid kit.

Ramblers Central Office have recently produced an In Case of Emergency Card which it is recommended walkers should carry in the top pocket of their rucksack. If you haven’t yet completed one, please ask for one on your next walk.

QUERIES: contact [email protected] or 07796 264 917 (Programme Co-ordinator) POP-UP WALK – NOT ON LAST PROGRAMME Thu 30 May Trail 9 miles Leisurely Starts at 10:45: Watford Junction Railway Station (WD17 1EU, TQ110972) Walk from Watford to St Albans Abbey along the Colne and Ver valleys with a pub stop for lunch (might be busy as it’s half term). The trail follows the branch line and there are plenty of drop out points. With a you will only need a single ticket St Albans Abbey to Watford Junction if you use the overground to get there: 9:45 Euston, 9:59 Willesden Junction, 10:33 Watford Junction. Otherwise return ticket Euston - St Albans Abbey: 10:24 Euston, 10.39 Watford Junction. There are toilets inside Watford Junction station. You might want to allow time to explore St Albans Abbey or the Roman remains after the walk. Mobile on the day 07890 004794. Map: OS Explorer 182 Leader: Monika Eady

Sat 1 June Greensand Way 10: Sevenoaks to Yalding 12.5 miles Moderate Starts at 09:45: Sevenoaks Railway Station (TN13 1DP, TQ522553) Through Knole Park to Ightham Mote (early lunch: picnic or café). On overlooking the Weald of to Shipbourne, West Peckham and Nettlestead Green with a possible pub stop mid-afternoon. Two interesting churches. Please note - lots of stiles, some rickety. Mobile on the day only 07963 909814. Depart 09.10 from Charing Cross, stops at London Bridge 09.17, arrives Sevenoaks 09.42. Buy return to Yalding. Maps: OS Explorer 147 & 148. Leaders: David Bays & Maureen Colledge

Wed 5 June Bourne End Circular 12.5 miles Moderate Starts at 10:50: Bourne End Railway Station, (SU894872) Circular via Wooburn Common and Boveney Wood to pass through the new Radar Kissing Gate donated by West London Group leading into Egypt Woods, then south through Burnham Beeches to lunch. (6 mls approx.) Advisable to bring picnic lunch with drinks and toilets nearby at café. Dropout point nearby for those wanting a shorter walk by returning to Slough by bus. Return walk following ‘The Beeches Way’ across Littleworth Common and Hedsor to Thames Path to Bourne End. Depart 9:42 Ealing Broadway 9:52. Change at Maidenhead for the 10:38 branch line to Bourne End arriving 10:49. Return to Bourne End. Mobile on the day only 07713 025494 Map: OS Explorer Map 172 Leader: Susan Aldridge

Thu 6 June to 6.5 miles Easy Starts at 11:15: Welling Railway Station (DA16 3AU, TQ461760) Walking on a mixture of footpaths and tarmac through parks and riverside including Danson Park and along the River Shuttle, which is one of London's lesser known waterways. Muddy in places and please note, for those who might dislike this, that it includes crossing on a high and exposed bridge across Rochester Way. Short picnic stop only in Marlborough Park. Dropout point at Station. Mobile on the day only 07404 090633. Train from Victoria at 10.36, arriving at Welling at 11.11, or from London Bridge at 10.35, arriving at Welling at 11.00. We will await both trains. Map: OS Explorer 162 Leader: Rose Harley

Sat 8 June Farnham to Guildford 11.5 miles Moderate Starts at 10:30: Farnham Railway Station (GU9 8AG, SU844465) Pleasant rolling heath and farmland, along the North Downs Way. Please bring a picnic for an early-ish lunch at a nice viewpoint. There will be a short pub stop for drinks during the afternoon. Mobile on the day only: 07946 386621. Train: London Waterloo 9.23, arrives Farnham 10.25. (Alternative train from Clapham Junction 9.27, change at Woking). Return train from Guildford to Waterloo. Day return to Farnham. Map: OS Explorer 145. Leader: Anna Harris Wed 12 June Hertfordshire Way: Cuffley to Hertford 13 miles Moderate Starts at 10:25: Cuffley Railway Station (EN6 4LA, TL306028) A pleasant walk through varied and undulating countryside going north-west via Newgate Street to West End, then east to Essendon, Little Berkhamsted and Bayford and finally north to Hertford. Please bring a picnic lunch. We make short stops at viewpoints and other places of interest, and will probably call at a pub at the end of the walk. Mobile on the day only 07761 809151. Depart Moorgate railway station 09.40, Finsbury Park 09.53, arriving Cuffley at 10.21. Buy a return ticket to Hertford North. Maps: OS Explorer 182, 174 Leader: Howard Densley

Thu 13 June Hatch End to Stanmore & lunch at 'The Sahara Lounge' 5.5 miles Leisurely Starts at 10:35: Hatch End Railway Station, Greater London (HA5 4HH, TQ130913) Mainly following the route of the LOOP, this walk skirts the edge of Carpenders Park to cross Grims Dyke Golf Course to the viewpoint from Old Redding over London. Then continues through Harrow Weald Common to Bentley Priory and then alongside the ponds on Stanmore Little Common to descend to Stanmore to the restaurant which offers Lebanese cuisine (veg & non veg available): or walk a short distance to Stanmore Station. The meal must be pre-booked by contacting Jyoti Gudka either by email ([email protected]) or mobile (07939904414) by 10th June. 9.57 Overground train from Euston, Harrow & Wealdstone 10.26, arrives at Hatch End 10.31. If using Fast from Euston take 10.04 to Harrow & Wealdstone arriving 10.19 and change platforms to slow Overground 10.26 to arrive at Hatch End 10.31 Map: OS Explorer 173 Oyster card Leaders: Sue Aldridge & Jyoti Gudka

Sat 15 June 1066 Harold’s Way Section 7 – Maidstone to Staplehurst 10.5 miles Moderate Starts at 10:25: Maidstone East railway station (ME14 1QN, TQ759561) We continue along Harold’s Way from Maidstone to Staplehurst following the route that King Harold and his army may have taken from London to Battle in 1066. We start by the River Medway at the gateway to the Archbishop’s Palace in Maidstone, then walk into the Loose Valley Conservation Area, Quarry Hills and along a ridge between the North Downs and the Weald. This is a moderate section with a few short climbs and some undulating sections following some old paths, across fields and a section of Roman road. The walk crosses the Greensand Way. Picnic lunch & possible afternoon pub stop for drinks. Phone (on the day only): 07899 798298 Train: London Victoria 09:25 arriving Maidstone East at 10:25. Return Staplehurst (trains every half hour). Buy day return from London to Maidstone stations plus single from Staplehurst to Paddock Wood. Train timetables may change - please check before booking Maps: OS Explorer 148 &136 Leaders: Sue Neville and Helen Charlton

Tue 18 June Norwood Junction Circular 5 miles Leisurely Starts at 14:00: Norwood Junction Railway Station. Meet outside main entrance (SE25 5AG, TQ340682) Green spaces walk via South Norwood Country Park, Long Lane Wood, Ashburton Park, Woodside. Mobile on the day only 07719193235 Map: A-Z Oyster card Leader: Tom Berry

Thu 20 June Taplow Circular 6 miles Moderate Starts at 10:25: Taplow Railway Station (SL6 0NR, SU916813) A fairly flatish walk through woodland and fields with lunch in Taplow village at the Oak and Saw or picnic on the green. Depart Paddington 9.42, Ealing Broadway 9.52, arrive Taplow 10.20. (Please check summer timetable for possible changes). Day return to Taplow. Map: OS Explorer 172. Leader: Richard Bacher Sat 22 June Eastbourne Circular 9/13/16 miles Moderate/Hilly Starts at 10:15: Eastbourne Railway Station - meet by ticket barriers. (BN21 3LP, TV609990) A hilly cliff-top walk with spectacular views via Beachy Head. Lunch at Birling Gap (picnic or NT café), then Seven Sisters to Exceat for tea. Return through Friston Forest and East Dean. Possible drop-out points at bus-stop at Exceat (at 9 miles) or East Dean (13 miles). Depart London Victoria 8.46, Clapham Junction 8.53, arrive Eastbourne 10.14. Day return to Eastbourne. Map: OS Explorer 123. Leader: Roger Wilson

Tue 25 June Ewell West Circular 5 miles Leisurely Starts at 14:00: Ewell West Railway Station. Meet outside main entrance. (KT17 1DR, TQ214626) Green spaces walk around Nonsuch Park and nearby open spaces. Mobile on the day only: 07719193235 Map: OS Explorer 161 Oyster card. Leader: Tom Berry

Thu 27 June Taplow to Cookham and Winter Hill 9 miles Moderate Starts at 10:25: Taplow Railway Station. (SU916813) In the morning, a flat walk from Taplow to the Thames and along the Thames Path to Cookham, with a short coffee stop at Ray Mill Island. Lunch in Cookham (picnic or choice of pubs and cafes). Afternoon walk via Cookham Dean and Winter Hill with superb views of the Thames Valley and distant Chilterns. Train: depart Paddington 9.42, Ealing Broadway 9.52, arrives Taplow 10.20. Day return to Cookham. Mobile on the day only: 07733 263256 Map: OS Explorer 172 Leader: John Gower

Sat 29 June Happy Valley & Lavender Fields 11 miles Moderate/Hilly Starts at 10:25: Upper Warlingham Station: meet outside the station. (CR6 9BJ, TQ340583) A hilly walk rewarded by a leisurely afternoon tea at Mayfield Lavender Farm in bloom. From Upper Warlingham station we ascend a steep hill to join the London Loop just west of Hamsey Green. We journey on mainly through countryside passing Kenley airport (gliders) and on to Happy Valley where we should get good views from Farthing Downs Ridge. We traverse Coulsdon South then continue on to Mayfield Lavender Farm. After our tea stop, the final section is a gentle 40 minute gentle descent to Woodmansterne station for a return to London Bridge (change at East Croydon for Victoria). Bring a picnic lunch. Mobile on the day 07513 185 770. Drop-out point: Coulsdon South station, after 7 miles. Train: depart Victoria 9.50 to Upper Warlingham. Return: Woodmansterne (trains twice an hour). Map: OS Explorer 146 Oyster card Leader: Rowena Muir

Wed 3 July Tring Circular 12 miles Moderate/Hilly Starts at 10:20: , Hertfordshire (SP951122) Circular via Ridgeway onto the Ivinghoe Hills, then Icknield Way to Dagnall. Bring picnic to have on slopes of hills with a view, with time later for pub drinks at Dagnall. Return via Little Gaddesden and Ashridge Estate (hopefully a tea stop at Visitor Centre Café), then descend through Albury to Tring Station. Scenic views with some steep hills. Mobile on the day only: 07713 025494. Travel: Depart Euston 9.34 Harrow & Wealdstone 9.46. Arrive Tring 10.17 Day return to Tring. Map: OS Explorer 181 Leader: Susan Aldridge Sat 6 July Greensand Way 11 : Yalding to Sutton Valance 9.5 miles Moderate Starts at 10:20: Yalding Railway Station (ME18 6HJ, TQ685502) This stage of the Greensand Way passes through gentle Kent arable land and apple orchards, with views to the south for much of the way. After starting on the flat in the Medway Valley and passing through the pretty village of Yalding, the route climbs in very gentle stages up onto the Greensand Ridge, and follows it for the rest of the walk, with fine views to the south almost the whole day. Lunch: picnic or pub at Linton Bull Inn. Mobile on the day only 07948 603126. Train: London Charing Cross 09.15, arrives Yalding 10.18. Return 12 bus from Sutton Valance at Kings Head 16.54 to Station, arrives 17.06. Train 17.15 to Charing Cross, arrives 18.22. Return to Headcorn. Map: OS Explorer 125 Leader: Chris Parnell

Sun 7 July 7.5 miles Moderate Northfields to Osterley: Joint Walk with the London Blind Rambling Club Starts at 10:00: Northfields Underground Station (W5 4TT, TQ171792) The walk will all be on good paths and include Blondin Park, Boston Manor Park, the Grand Union Canal and then through Long Wood for lunch at Osterley Garden Centre (picnic or café). After lunch we continue to , Heston Fields and (optional tea and toilet stop), finishing at Osterley station. Tom and Bert would appreciate help in guiding those members of the London Blind Walking Group who need assistance and chatting to our guests. Mobile on the day only 07719 193235. Map: A-Z Oyster card Leaders: Bert Neale & Tom Berry

Wed 10 July The Hertfordshire Way - Cuffley to Broxbourne 12 miles Moderate Starts at 10:10: Cuffley Railway Station (EN6 4LA, TL306028) Following the recently developed Hertfordshire Way Extension, we will walk via Goff's Oak through a large area of ancient woodland which includes the county's only National Nature Reserve (Broxbourne Woods). Lunch at Woodman & Olive pub, Wormley West End, or picnic nearby. Mobile on the day only 07963 909814. Depart Highbury & Islington on Great Northern Rail at 09.32, stops at Finsbury Park at 09.38, arrives Cuffley 10.08. Return from Broxbourne Station on Greater Anglia train, connects with underground at Tottenham Hale. Buy two single tickets as different train companies. Map: OS Explorer 174. Leader: Maureen Colledge

Sat 13 July Saunderton Circular 11 miles Strenuous Starts at 10:00: Saunderton Railway Station, Buckinghamshire (HP14 4LJ, SU813981) This walk through a peaceful part of the rolling Chilterns has three good climbs and many fine views over the valley and plain. The first part of the walk runs along the valley bottom, before following the Ridgeway to Bledlow. We then pass through a series of secluded valleys before reaching Radnage Church (built by the Knights Templar in late 12th/early 13th century) and return over Bledlow Ridge. Please bring picnic lunch and we will aim for a pub stop at the Boot in Bledlow Ridge. Please note, strenuous in parts of the walk and pace fairly brisk. Mobile on the day only 07752 249341. from Marylebone at 9.13 arriving at Saunderton at 9.55. Day return Saunderton. Map: OS Explorer 171&181 Leader: Hansa Jadva-Patel

Wed 17 July Woodmansterne to Banstead via Lavender Farm 5 miles Leisurely Starts at 11:00: Woodmansterne Railway Station - meet at ticket barriers (CR5 3HY, TQ287593) A short walk (2 miles) mainly on rural paths to Mayfield organic lavender farm with time to enjoy the fields of flowers and visit the gift shop. Then on to Oakes Park for lunch (picnic or café) before returning via Banstead Downs. Mobile on the day only 07796 264917. Depart London Bridge 10.17, arrive Woodmasterne 10.56. Map:OS Explorer 146 Oyster card Leaders: Gail Sanderson & Jackie Gower Sat 20 July 1066 Harold’s Way Walk 8 : Staplehurst to Sissinghurst 10.5 miles Moderate Starts at 10:15: Staplehurst Railway Station (TN12 0QR, TQ783444) This is a typical Kentish Wealden walk amidst meadow, fields, meandering streams, woods and remnants of water mills. A journey across undulating low weald from Staplehurst before climbing up to Hocker Edge and a final walk on tracks and lanes to Sissinghurst castle. Lunch: picnic or pub (The Knoxbridge Inn). Mobile on the day only 07948 603126. Train London Charing Cross 09.10, arrives Staplehurst 10.08. Return #5 Bus Sissinghurst to Maidstone East Station. As Staplehurst and Maidstone East are on different lines, two singles probably required. Map: OS Explorer 125 Leader: Chris Parnell

London National Park City Festival Sun 21 July Ealing Broadway to 5 miles Leisurely Starts at 14:00: Meet outside (Central & District Lines + mainline from Paddington). (W5 2NT, TQ179809) A walk exploring the parks and green spaces of North Ealing, via , , //Hanger Hill Park, Fox Wood, Brunswick Park Open Space, Brentham Garden Estate, Park to Perivale. Mobile on the day only 07719 193235. Map: A-Z Oyster card Leader: Tom Berry

Wed 24 July Wendover Circular 10 miles Moderate Starts at 10:15: Wendover Railway Station (HP22 6BT, SP865077) Initial route follows the Wendover canal passing the village of Halton before ascending to Haddington Hill, the highest spot (at 267m) in the Chilterns, Continuing into the centre of Wendover Woods where we will take lunch (picnic or café). From here we descend gently in trees to meet the Ridgeway track at the Hale, before following it through mature woodlands and along quiet farm tracks passing the old village church and back into Wendover. Mobile on the day only 07540 443825. Depart Marylebone 9.27, Harrow-on-the-Hill 9.39, arriving Wendover 10.15 (check times as they may change). Day return Wendover Map: OS Explorer 181 Leaders: Jim & Marie Barnes

London National Park City Festival Thu 25 July to 7 miles Easy Starts at 10:00: Hanwell Railway Station, on the south side in Station Approach, just off York Avenue. (TQ153804) Almost a country walk, all within the Borough of Ealing. We meet outside the south side of Hanwell railway station, in Station Approach, just off York Avenue. Coming by bus on , use the Church Road stop. Then we follow the River Brent as it twists and turns, leaving it to go north into Perivale where after 5 miles of walking we pause at the tube station, a convenient stopping point for anyone not wishing to proceed further. We continue to the top of Horsenden Hill, at 85 meters the highest point in the Borough, and come down to the Grand Union Canal which we follow for about half a mile before turning away to Greenford rail and tube stations, where the walk ends. Please bring a picnic lunch. Mobile on the day only 07761 809151. Map: A-Z Oyster card Leader: Howard Densley London National Park City Festival Sat 27 July 'Two Ealing Mansions': Ealing Broadway to Acton Town 5 miles Leisurely Starts at 10:00: Meet outside Ealing Broadway Station (Central & District Lines and National Rail from Paddington). (W5 2NU, TQ179808) A leisurely walk through Ealing's green spaces and lanes via two recently restored 19th century mansions - , the country retreat designed and built by Sir John Soames, and Gunnersbury Park Mansion and Museum. We will explore the beautiful grounds surrounding both houses and have the option of spending time inside the second mansion/museum at the end of the walk. Finish at either Gunnersbury Park after a refreshment break at approximately noon (to spend time in the mansion/museum) or Acton Town station. Mobile on the day only: 07585 790145. Map: A-Z Oyster card Leaders: Linda Foster & Mary Rutherford

Wed 31 July Seaford Circular via Newhaven 6/ 9 miles Moderate Starts at 11:20: Seaford Railway Station (BN25 2AW, TV481991) Walk via the war memorial, Blatchington Hill, twittens (ancient alleyways) and farm tracks to Bishopstone. Up wooded Rookery Hill and through Ouse Estuary Nature Reserve to Newhaven Town. Across the Ouse to the West Quay for lunch (picnic/café/pub). Up to Fort Newhaven and the coastguard lookout and return to Newhaven Town station where some people may prefer to finish (6 miles). A further 3 miles can be walked via Tide Mills and promenade back to Seaford station, with optional stop for tea. Mobile on the day only 07989 060755. Depart London Victoria 9.46, quick change at Lewes for train to Seaford. Off peak day return to Seaford. Map: OS Explorer 123 Leader: Elizabeth Jackson

Sat 3 August Greensand Way 12 – Sutton Valance to Pluckley 12 miles Moderate Starts at 10:15: Headcorn Railway Station (for 12 bus to ) (TN27 9SD, TQ837439) We continue along the Greensand Way from Sutton Valence to Pluckley passing through villages, orchards and by Oast Houses, vineyards and old churches. Author HE Bates lived in this area. Moderate walk with some climbs through farmland, villages and a few stretches on roads. Picnic lunch with possible pub stop (drinks only) at Pluckley before the final 2 miles to Pluckley station. Phone (on the day only): 07899 798298. Train: London Charing Cross departing 09:10 arriving Headcorn 10:14. Bus (from Headcorn railway station forecourt to Sutton Valence, bus pass or pay driver) departing 10:50 (arrive 11:02). Return from Pluckley. Buy day return to Pluckley. Please check train times. Map: OS Explorer 137 Leaders: Sue Neville and Carol Smith

Wed 7 August Teddington Circular 9 miles Moderate Starts at 10:40: Teddington Railway Station (TW11 9AA, TQ160708) Thames Path to Hampton Court for lunch (café or picnic), returning via Home Park and Bushy Park. Depart Waterloo 10.03, arrive Teddington 10.40. Map A-Z Oyster card Leader: Heather McCauley

Sat 10 August Hanborough to Woodstock 9.5 miles Moderate Starts at 10:35: Hanborough Railway Station (OX29 8LA, SP432142) Walk through the Evenlode valley to North Leigh Roman villa, then to the Cotswold village of Stonesfield for lunch (pub or picnic). Then we will follow the Roman Akeman Street into the grounds of Blenheim Palace, walking by the lake to arrive at Woodstock where there are several tea rooms and pubs. Mobile on the day only 07780 944484. Depart London Paddington 9.22, arrive Hanborough 10.32. Please note Hanborough has a short platform - listen for announcements about which part of the train to be in. Return by bus S3 from Marlborough Arms in Woodstock to railway station (half hourly). Return to Oxford + single Oxford to Hanborough. Map: OS Explorer 180. Leader: Martin Single Wed 14 August The Hertfordshire Way – Broxbourne to Hertford 12.5 miles Moderate Starts at 10:15: Broxbourne Station, Hertfordshire (EN10 7AW, TL374072) From Broxbourne, we follow the Lea Valley via The New River and Lee Navigation, then cross the river to Stanstead Abbotts (possible short coffee stop). The route then rises up and loops down to the Ash Valley returning to The Lee at Great Amwell for a late lunch after nearly 8 miles – bring picnic with drinks at pub. We then continue along the Lee Valley passing Ware to finish at Hertford East Station. The walk crosses The Greenwich Meridian twice and we see lovely riverside views. Depart London Liverpool St. 9:42 Arrive Broxbourne 10:15. Return to Hertford East. Mobile on the day only 07713 025494 Map: OS Explorer 174 Leader: Susan Aldridge

Sat 17 August 1066 Harold’s Way 9 - Sissinghurst to Bodiam Castle 11.5 miles Moderate Starts at 10:00: Maidstone East (TQ759561) A mix of arable farming, livestock meadows, orchards and hop fields that is found in this part of Wealden Kent along the High Weald Landscape Trail. A climb up to the High Weald to follow the Roman road at Sandhurst that leads to the Kent Ditch and the Sussex Border Path to Bodiam Castle. Please bring a picnic lunch. Late refreshments in Sandhurst approx 7.5 miles. Mobile on the day only: 07948 603126. Train London Victoria 8.55, arrive Maidstone East 9.57, then bus at 10.25, arrive Sissinghurst 11.07. Return #349 Bus 17.53 opp Castle Inn to Hastings (arrive 18.31). Train at 18.50 to Charing Cross, arrives 20.34. Map: OS Explorers124/5 Leader: Chris Parnell

Tue 20 August Chessington Circular 5 miles Moderate Starts at 14:00: Chessington South Railway Station. Meet outside station entrance. (KT9 2JR, TQ179633) Green spaces walk around Horton Country Park and nearby open spaces. Mobile on the day only: 07719 193235. Map: OS Explorer 161 Oyster card. Leader: Tom Berry

Wed 21 August Ranmore Common/Polesden Lacey Circular 8 miles Moderate Starts at 10:45: Box Hill & Westhumble Railway Station - meet outside ticket office. (RH5 6BT, TQ167518) A glorious walk through the Surrey hills west of Box Hill. Outward leg ascends to Ranmore Common via North Downs Way along the edge of Denbies Vineyard. After Steers Field, with its lovely views south to Leith Hill and the Greensand Way, we head through the Ranmore Common woods to the lunch break at Polesden Lacey National Trust tea rooms. Polesden Lacey is a Regency mansion with lovely gardens, very fashionable in the 1920s, & where King George VI and Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother spent part of their honeymoon in 1923. The return leg skirts the NT grounds through dry valleys, on paths and lanes which descend back to West Humble, with views directly ahead of Box Hill. Possible drink at the Stepping Stones pub at the end. Mobile on the day only: 07788 712052. Train: Waterloo 09.54, Clapham Junction 10.02, arrive Box Hill & Westhumble 10.41. If you need to, please use the loo on train as those at Box Hill are locked up. Return to Box Hill & Westhumble station. Map: OS Explorer 146. Please welcome a new leader Leader: Robin John

Sat 24 August Cholsey to Goring 11.5 miles Moderate Starts at 10:45: (OX10 9LN, SU584860) A mainly riverside walk with good views along the Thames. Four miles in the morning, then lunch at Wallingford (pub, café or picnic in the square). Continue to the attractive village of Goring for return. Depart Paddington 9.27, Ealing Broadway 9.35, arrive Cholsey 10.40. (Please check summer timetable for possible changes). Day return to Cholsey. Map: OS Explorer 170. Leader: Richard Bacher Mon 26th August - DEADLINE FOR SUBMITTING WALKS FOR OCT – JAN PROGRAMME Please contact the Programme Co-ordinator to book a date (preferably before the deadline, especially if you want a particular date) and then send her the details for inclusion in the programme and on the web-site. Alternatively, if you would like to enter the details directly on the web-site yourself, ask to be registered as a contributor. Contact [email protected] or 020 8579 6723 or 07796 264917.

Sat 31 August Lewes to Berwick via Glynde 12 miles Moderate/Strenuous Starts at 10:25: Lewes Railway Station (BN7 2UP, TQ416098) Short walk through Lewes then a steady climb up to the golf course with magnificent views of the surrounding countryside, down into Glynde and then to Firle for lunch (picnic or pub 'The Ram Inn'). Then a steady climb up onto the South Downs going through Beddingham Hill, Long Barrow, Alciston and Selmeston along the Vanguard Way into Berwick. Walk strenuous in parts. Mobile on the day only: 07948 603126. London Victoria 09.16 Clapham Junction 09.22, arrive Lewes 10.23. Day Return Berwick Map: OS Explorer 123 Leader: Chris Parnell

Wed 4 September Circular West of Guildford 9 miles Moderate Starts at 10:55: Guildford Railway Station (GU1 4UT, SU992496) Undulating route outward along the North Downs Way with lunch (pub, café or picnic) at Compton. Chance to visit the Watts Gallery and Chapel. Return via Loseley Park and the Wey Navigation. Possible bus opt out at Compton. Depart London Waterloo 10.15, Clapham Junction 10.22, arrive Guildford 10.50. Day return to Guildford. Map: OS Explorer 145. Leader: Margaret Lydamore

Sat 7 September Greensand Way 13: Pluckley to Ashford 11 miles Moderate Starts at 10:40: Pluckley Station: meet outside station (TN27 0RT, TQ921432) From Pluckley station, we walk up onto the ridge at Shipland, through orchards and on to Little Chart with its mill ponds and working paper mill. From Little Chart, it is a gently undulating route mainly through farmland and open countryside. We will pass HE Bate’s house at Chart Forstal, Godinton House and Godinton Park. We leave the Greensand Way at Great Chart and follow the Stour Valley and walk along the river into Ashford to the station. There are a number of stiles. We will make a pub stop at some point during the day but not for lunch so bring a picnic. Mobile on the day 07513 185 770. Trains: depart St Pancras International 9.34 to Ashford International, arriving at 10.11. Connect to the train to Pluckley, departing 10.32 from platform 2. Ticket: return St Pancras International to Ashford International + a single Ashford International to Pluckley. Map: OS Explorer 137 Leader: Rowena Muir

Wed 11 September The Hertfordshire Way - Hertford to Widford 13.6 miles Moderate Starts at 10:35: Hertford East Railway Station (TL329129) From Hertford across Waterford Marsh by the River Beane to Waterford and Stapleford, then continuing along the riverside path into Woodhall Park and then Sacombe Park, both very attractive landscaped estates and where we will have a picnic lunch stop. The route then climbs gently through woodland and fields before descending to Wadesmill where there is the option of drinks at one of the village pubs. The final stretch passes through Thunbridge with its ruined church and Wareside to finish at Widford. Mobile on the day only 07796 264 917. Depart London Liverpool Street 9.42, arrive Hertford 10.31. Return from Widford on the 351 bus to St Margaret's for frequent trains to London. Day return to Hertford East. Map: OS Explorer 194 Leader: Jackie Gower Sat 14 September Portsmouth to Havant via Hayling Island 13 miles Moderate Starts at 11:10: Portsmouth Harbour Railway Station - meet at ticket barriers (PO1 3PA, SU629000) A flat coastal walk following part of the Shipwrights Way with no stiles! Start from Portsmouth and cross Southsea Common to reach South Parade Pier for an early lunch (restaurant or packed lunch) then continue to Eastney with impressive views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight. Catch the ferry to Hayling Island (£5.50, £4.50 concessions) with possible drinks stop before or after the ferry. Walk along the shingle beach and heath to join the Hayling Billy disused railway to Havant. Depending on time, possible pub or tea stop in Langstone with views across Chichester Harbour. Mobile on the day only 07988 634556. Depart London Waterloo 09:30, arrive Portsmouth Harbour 11:08. Ticket: off-peak day return to Portsmouth Harbour, route "Any Permitted". Please check train times in case of engineering work. Return from Havant. Maps: OS: OL3 and OL8 Walk leaders: Melvin Anderson & Sue Neville

Wed 18 September Circular 14.5 miles Moderate/Hilly/Brisk Starts at 10:20: (SG4 9UL, TL195296) This Hertfordshire walk covers the hilly area west of Hitchin. The morning route leads along farm tracks, field boundaries, shaded grassy lanes and through a few woods across the most north easterly ridge of the Chilterns, in Great Offley, to the steep chalk downlands of Pegsdon Hills and Knocking Hoe, dissected by quiet flat-bottomed valleys, which form the scenery around the lunch stop in Pegsdon. From Knocking Hoe the ancient Icknield Way leads to the pretty village of Pirton, with its impressive remains of a motte-and-double bailey castle and traces of an abandoned medieval village. Late lunch (pub known to have slow service at times). Steep hill climb. Get the 09.45 Peterborough train from St Pancras (09.36 Blackfriars, 09.52 Finsbury Park), arrives 10.20. This is a train from Gatwick, so has many other options. Day return to Hitchin. Map: OS Explorer 193 Leader: Pete Grist

Sat 21 September 1066 Harold's Way 10: Bodiam Castle to Battle Abbey 13 miles Moderate Starts at 10:40: Robertsbridge Railway Station (TN32 5DJ, TQ733235) From Robertsbridge, we will walk approximately 3.7 miles on good paths through the Rother Valley to rejoin Harold's Way at Bodiam. The route is then through the High Weald so quite hilly with lovely views of meadows, woodland and farmland. Our destination is Battle Abbey close to the site of the Battle of Hastings where Harold was killed and his army defeated by William the Conqueror. Please bring a picnic lunch and we will probably stop for drinks at Seddescombe en route and no doubt celebrate completing the 100 mile walk when we reach Battle. Mobile on the day only 07796 264917. Anyone preferring a shorter walk (9.25 miles) and to spend some time at Bodiam Castle could take a taxi from Robertsbridge instead of walking but please contact the leader in advance to make arrangements to meet up with the main group in Bodiam. Depart London Charing Cross 9.15, arrive Robertsbridge 10.34. Day return to Battle. Map: OS Explorer 124. Leader: Jackie Gower

Tue 24 September Kew Riverside to Stamford Brook 5 miles Leisurely Starts at 14:00: Kew Gardens Railway Station. Meet outside main entrance - booking hall side. (TW9 3PZ, TQ191767) Green spaces walk by including Duke's Meadows, Mall, St. Peter's Square. Mobile on the day only: 07719193235 Map: A-Z Oyster card Leader: Tom Berry Sat 28 September Circular 13 miles Moderate/Hilly Starts at 10:30: Princes Risborough Railway Station, Buckinghamshire (SP799027) Circular via Horsenden to Bledlow Ridge with early lunch stop at pub, or picnic nearby. Continue via Radnage Church, Crowall Woods and Chinnor Hill to return via Bledlow and Horsenden. Hilly with scenic views. Mobile on the day only 07713 025494. Travel: Depart Marylebone 9.43 Arrive Princes Risborough 10.27 Map: OS Explorer 181 Leader: Susan Aldridge

GET THE RAMBLERS APP FOR YOUR PHONE You can now download an app for your smart phone that lets you quickly and easily access the most up to date details of all our walks – it is directly linked to the Group Walks and Events Finder and our own web-site. It also has lots of other useful facilities, including details of other groups’ walks, your digital membership card (useful if you want to claim the discount in Cotswold Outdoor and Snow & Rock stores), articles, news, etc. You do need to have a digital account on the Ramblers web-site but that’s very easy to set up if you haven’t done it already. If you have any problems or questions, do ask for help on the train or over lunch as a lot of us are now using (and enjoying) it. Android - go to Google Play Apple – go to the App Store

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