One of the best things about living in London is how quickly you can get out. As the weather begins to turn, weekends are the perfect time to make the most of the longer days with some of Greater London’s best walks.
Capital Ring Quite the opposite of escaping London, the Capital Ring is a 126 kilometer trail through some of this cities’ most stunning sites. Whilst very much embedded in zones 1-5, each of the ring’s 15 manageable walks offer a whole new perspective, from reservoirs and wetlands to palaces and parks. If time and travel budgets aren’t on your side, then pick a selection of the route and allow yourself to see the capital in a whole new light. Hastings to Winchelsea, 9 miles One of the most beautiful day hikes from London, that you’ll truly begin to question whether you’re still in the UK. From one stunning coastal town to another, you’ll pass through rolling hills, dense forest, nudist beaches and beautiful cliff tops, all interspersed with excellent snack stops. Winchelsea is a beautiful place to end your trail, with a well deserved pint, and a snoop around the local churchyard. Depending on your route – and how quickly you walk- the journey should take around six hours.
St Margaret’s Bay to Deal, 5 miles Another stunning cliff top walk stretching along the Kent coast, from the small village of St. Margaret’s, to popular seaside town, Deal. With such close proximity to Dover and it’s White Cliffs, the area is drenched in history, from World War One monuments, and local museums and the amazing Walmer Castle. After five miles of walking, you’ll be ready for a sit down on Deal Pier, and a good helping of fish and chips. Manningtree to Flatford, 4 miles A fairly short walk, but one filled with history and beauty. Art lovers flock to this part of the world, as Flatford is known to have inspired some of John Constable’s most famous works, and it’s not hard to see why. Walk through wildlife rich marshland, past winding rivers, and the stunning town of Deadham, for some of the most picturesque streets you’ll ever see.