In the nineteenth century, cultural attitudes to walking began to shift. Walking for pleasure grew in popularity across social classes and this history can be seen in London’s many beautiful parks with their well-tended gardens and walking paths. However, Victorian infrastructure and the increased availability in rail travel led to more people taking to the countryside to walk in the clean fresh air. And is it any wonder that people have continued to do just this with so many gorgeous walks available right on the capital’s doorstep?
In recent years, walking, especially in the country, has again had something of a boom with its manifold health benefits and affordability, and the opportunities it provides to socialise, take photographs, and spot wildlife. With the Thames linking the city to its surrounding countryside and with excellent transit links to the outer reaches of the city, walking outside of London has never been easier. Whether you fancy a stroll by the river, dipping your toes in the sea, or a long, meandering walk in the rolling hills, Greater London has something for you. Our list below provides insight into the best walks outside of London, so put your walking shoes on, and let’s explore.
Goring Gap and the Thames Path
Goring Gap is located along the River Thames between Goring-on-Thames in Oxfordshire and Streatley in Berkshire. The “gap” is the point at which the Thames penetrates the chalk hills of the Chilterns and the Berkshire Downs. The landscape here is both dramatic and picturesque and is a site of significant geographical interest. The Gap was formed over many thousands of years with the River Thames wearing away at the chalk hills and creating steep slopes and river meadows. There is also a nineteenth-century bridge between Goring and Streatley that is a must-see. This walk is approximately five miles and is accessible by train from London Paddington. The footpath is well-marked and follows the river southwards. Along the way, you might see red kites in the Hartslock Nature Reserve, and perhaps even a rare orchid. If you fancy it, the Cross Keys pub is a quaint location for something to eat and drink after you have stretched your legs.
Box Hill
For those interested in literature, this accessible beauty spot is the place to be. The setting of Adam Mars-Jones's novella Box Hill and Jane Austen’s Emma, this lovely location offers incredible views of the surrounding countryside, with an elevation of 224 metres. The landscape is characterised by its unique chalk downlands, woodlands, and grasslands. Again, here you might get lucky and spot a rare Bee Orchid, or perhaps an Adonis Blue butterfly, so keep a sharp eye out as you make your way up the hill. Box Hill is a popular location for both walkers and cyclists – the 2012 London Olympics even used the hill as part of several cycling race circuits. On site, the National Trust offers a number of facilities, such as a café, gift shop, and information centre. There are also countless spots to picnic along the walk. Box Hill is accessible by train from London Victoria.
Chess Valley, the Chilterns
The Chess Valley, located in the Chiltern Hills across Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire, follows the River Chess, a stunning chalk stream with dazzling clear water and a flourishing ecosystem full of brown trout, water voles, and kingfishers. Dotted along the valley are the charming historic towns of Latimer, Chesham, and Chenies. The Chess Valley is accessible by train from London Marylebone and alongside walking, the valley offers trails for cycling and horse riding. For those fans of traditional British murder mysteries, the Chess Valley has featured in several episodes of the television series Midsomer Murders. In addition, Chenies Manor House is worth a visit while you are in this beautiful part of the world.
Epping Forest’s Oak Trail
Epping Forest is a managed forest on the boundary of Greater London and Essex. It was for many years a Royal Forest, designed as a space for royals to hunt game. In these ancient woodlands, you can see deer and even an Iron Age hill fort. The Oak Trail starts at Theydon Bois Station, which can be reached from the Central Line in London, and there is a carpark for those driving. The trail itself is well-marked, but it is recommended that you come prepared with a map or GPS. There are places along the trail to rest and picnic, and in Theydon Bois village there are a number of pubs and cafes. The trail can be muddy, so come prepared with sturdy walking boots and waterproof gear.
The Kentish Coast
A walk along this breath-taking coastline between the coastal towns of Ramsgate, Broadstairs, and Margate reveals a lovely part of the country. Accessible by train from St. Pancras, Charing Cross, and London Victoria, this southeast area boasts spectacular coastal views, stunning white cliffs, and beaches perfect for water sports, birdwatching, and sunbathing. Look out for former smuggler’s caves as you walk, these are great spots to look for rock pool creatures and fossils. There are cafes along the beach fronts, so you won’t go hungry, and for those intrepid enough perhaps you can finish off your walk with a quick dip in the sea before stopping off for ice cream on your way home.
With rivers, woodlands, cliffs, and coastline, the countryside around London is overflowing with options for bracing walks in nature. The walks above offer something for all abilities and inclinations. For those interested in history, Box Hill and Epping Forest are rich in stories, and if you are keen to check out the local wildlife, Chess Valley and Goring Gap are dotted with birds, plants, and animals. For those who like to feel the sand beneath their toes, the Kentish Coast reveals a number of sandy bays and coves that make it a great swimming walk . Time to lace up your boots, fill up your water bottle, pack something sweet, and get out there onto one of the many incredible trails on offer near London.
