Hike Together

SUMMARY:
🥾 23 km (14.3 miles) | Circular | Ascent: 708 m | ~7 hours
🚆 Direct train from London Marylebone
⛳️ Meeting Point: 2 Options
1- London Marylebone station Ticket Office | 09:00 (Train is at 09:27)
2- Wendover outside train station | 10:20
📍 Hike start: Wendover outside train station | 10:30
🏁 Hike finish: Wendover train station | approx. 17:00-18:00
⚠️ Steep and Uneven sections
📈 Grade: Moderate/Strenuous

ABOUT:
A 23 kilometre circular trail in the Chilterns from Wendover Station, Buckinghamshire.

The trail goes through woodlands and farmlands, featuring steady ascents and descents with great views including Bacombe Hill Nature Reserve, Coombe Hill summit, Beacon Hill, Whiteleaf Hill, Pulpit Hill nature reserve, and Goodmerhill Woods.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Bacombe Hill Local Nature Reserve
  This chalk grassland hill offers magnificent views over Aylesbury Vale. It is renowned for its rare wildflowers and butterflies, with orchids blossoming in spring.
• Coombe Hill
  As the highest viewpoint in the Chiltern Hills at 260 meters, Coombe Hill features the Coombe Hill Monument, which commemorates local men who perished in the Second Boer War. It provides extensive views over the Vale of Aylesbury and, on clear days, extends to the Cotswolds. The open grassland at the summit is an ideal spot for a pause and picnic.
• Beacon Hill
  This small, rounded summit with open grassy slopes is part of the Chequers Estate. Historically utilized for signaling with beacons, Beacon Hill offers panoramic views and conveys a sense of expansive open space.
• Whiteleaf Hill
  Whiteleaf Hill is home to the Whiteleaf Cross, a chalk hill carving that likely dates back to the 18th century or earlier. It contains a Neolithic barrow (burial mound), with excavations in the 1930s uncovering ancient remains and artifacts.
• Chequers Estate: A historic country house used as the official country residence of the British Prime Minister. It has been the designated retreat for Prime Ministers since 1917, when it was gifted to the nation by Sir Arthur Lee, a politician and former soldier, to provide future leaders a place to relax and host guests.
• Ninn Wood & Pulpit Hill Nature Reserve
  This area includes mixed broadleaf woodland with ancient trees and historic earthworks. Pulpit Hill houses an Iron Age hill fort, surrounded by banks and ditches that are now moss-covered and mysterious.

TIPS: 💡

• Scenic Points: Coombe Hill, Beacon Hill, and Whiteleaf Cross all offer great rest stops with views.
• Watch for red kites, deer, and ancient trees in Pulpit Hill and Goodmerhill Wood.
• Explore the Neolithic barrow on Whiteleaf Hill.

COST:
Free

TRAINS:

• Outbound: 09:27 from London Marylebone (direct train)
• Arrival: 10:16 at Wendover
• Visit National Rail for details

MEETING POINT & TIME:

• Meet: 2 Options
  1- London Marylebone station Ticket Office | 09:00
  2- Wendover outside train station | 10:20
• Hike start: Outside Wendover train station | 10:30
• Hike finish: Wendover train station | Approx. 17:00–18:00

DISTANCE AND DIFFICULTY:

• Total distance: approx 23km (14.3 miles)
• Ascent: 708 m
• Max elevation: 261 m
• Grading: Moderate/Strenuous
• Time: Approx. 7 hours (with breaks)
• Pace: 5 km/h (~3.1 mph)

GUIDE:
See attendee list

WHAT TO BRING:

• Water (2 litres recommended)
• Snacks and packed lunch
• Rainproof (ideally waterproof) clothing
• Sturdy shoes or hiking boots

SAFETY: ⚠️
As adults, you are fully responsible for your own safety and decisions throughout the walk.

• Steep and Slippery Sections:
  -Multiple hills (Coombe, Beacon, Whiteleaf, Pulpit) have steep ascents and descents.
  -In wet or frosty conditions, mud and chalk surfaces become very slippery, especially in woodlands.
• Sections like Little Hampden Common and parts of the nature reserves can feel isolated, with no mobile signal in some areas.
• Livestock and Farmland: You may cross grazing fields with sheep or cattle. Stay calm, keep distance.
• Always close gates behind you and stay on marked rights of way.

NOTES:

• This is a group hike led by volunteers. Everyone is welcome to join.
• A few wrong turns? That’s part of the fun!
• While you're free to “hike your own hike,” we encourage group participation, get to know one another, make new friends, and enjoy the journey together.
• Food options are limited en route, bring lunch.

DISCLAIMER:
Event Participation Disclaimer
By signing up for an event we host, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

• The organisers are not qualified hiking leaders, certified first aiders, or formally trained in navigation, survival, or any related disciplines.
• These hikes are informal, self-guided gatherings of like-minded individuals.
• The hosts expressly disclaim all responsibility and liability for any injuries, accidents, or safety incidents that may occur during participation.
• Participation is entirely voluntary, and all attendees are solely responsible for their own safety and well-being.
• These events are non-commercial and are organised purely as a recreational hobby, with no business or financial interests involved.
• Hiking and outdoor activities inherently carry risks of personal injury. By choosing to participate, you accept these risks and take full responsibility for your own actions and decisions.

GENERAL GROUP POLICY:

• Voluntary Participation: Attendance is at your own risk. The group and hosts bear no liability.
• No Professional Duty of Care: Hosts are volunteers, not trained guides or medical professionals.
• Insurance Is Your Responsibility: If desired, you must arrange your own personal insurance.
• Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles at all times.
• Emergency Preparedness: You are responsible for organising your own emergency plan.
• Weather and Safety: Events may be cancelled or changed if conditions are deemed unsafe.
• Self-Assessment Required: You must honestly assess your fitness and ability to keep pace with the group.
• No Guaranteed Rescue: While help may be offered, full rescue capabilities should not be expected.
• No Minors Without Guardians: Participants must be over 21.
• Right to Refuse Participation: Hosts may turn away any individual who appears unprepared or poses a safety risk to others.
• First Aid Preparedness Encouraged: It is highly recommended that each participant carries a small first aid kit for minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes, bites, and blisters.

FINAL ACKNOWLEDGMENT:
By attending this event, you confirm that you are participating voluntarily and at your own risk. Neither the host nor the group accepts responsibility for any injury, loss, or damage incurred.

SUMMARY:
🥾 21 km (13 miles) | Point-to-Point | Ascent: 243m | Descent: : 275m | ~6 hours
🚆 Train from London Charing Cross train station *via Ashford International
⛳️ Meeting Point: 2 Options
1- London Charing Cross - Main Ticket Office | 08:40 (Train is at 09:07)
2- Wye outside train station | 10:05
📍 Hike start: Wye outside train station | 10:15
🏁 Hike finish: Canterbury | approx. 17:00-18:00
⚠️ Some terrain can be muddy or uneven: good walking shoes recommended
📈 Grade: Moderate

📖ABOUT:
Join us for a beautiful day 21km hike along an ancient pilgrimage route through the Kent countryside!
Starting from the village of Wye, we’ll follow part of the famous North Downs Way and Stour Valley Walk, taking in rolling hills, open farmland, peaceful woodlands, and charming villages.
This trail finishes in the historic city of Canterbury, with its iconic cathedral visible from miles away.
It’s a walk rich in natural beauty and medieval history, perfect for those who enjoy a mix of views, culture, and a satisfying challenge.

🌟HIGHLIGHTS:

• Wye Village & Church of St Gregory and St Martin: A charming starting point with a historic Norman church.
• Wye Memorial Crown: The Wye Crown is a 180-foot hillside sculpture created in 1902 to mark King Edward VII’s coronation. Hidden during WWII, it now sits beneath the North Downs Way and offers great views over Wye.
• Olantigh Estate & Franscombe Wood: Beautiful estate grounds and shaded woodland paths.
• Eggringe Wood & Denge Wood: Ancient woodlands rich with wildlife and home to prehistoric burial monuments.
• Chartham Village: A quaint riverside village featuring the 13th-century Church of St Mary and the Chapel of St John the Baptist.
• The Great Stour Way: A peaceful riverside trail leading directly into Canterbury, perfect for relaxed walking and spotting swans or herons.
• Canterbury Cathedral: The iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site and final destination for countless pilgrims across history.

💡TIPS:

• Wear sturdy walking shoes or boots because parts of the trail can be muddy or uneven, especially after rain.
• Pack a light rain jacket, even in summer. Weather can change quickly on the downs

💷COST:
Free

🚆TRAINS:

• Outbound: 09:07 from London Charing Cross *via Ashford International
• Arrival: 10:03 at Wye
• Visit National Rail for details

⛳️MEETING POINT & TIME:

• Meet: 2 Options
  1- London Charing Cross - Main Ticket Office | 08:40
  2- Wye outside train station | 10:05
• Hike start: Outside Wye train station | 10:15
• Hike finish: Canterbury | Approx. 17:00–18:00

🚏DISTANCE AND DIFFICULTY:

• Total distance: approx 21km (13 miles)
• Ascent: 243 m
• Descent: 275m
• Max elevation: 179 m
• Grading: Moderate
• Time: Approx. 6 hours (with breaks)
• Pace: 5 km/h (~3.1 mph)

🎒WHAT TO BRING:

• Water (2 litres recommended)
• Snacks and packed lunch
• Rainproof (ideally waterproof) clothing
• Sturdy shoes or hiking boots

⚠️SAFETY:
As adults, you are fully responsible for your own safety and decisions throughout the walk.

❗️NOTES:

• This is a group hike led by volunteers. Everyone is welcome to join.
• A few wrong turns? That’s part of the fun!
• While you're free to “hike your own hike,” we encourage group participation, get to know one another, make new friends, and enjoy the journey together.
• Food options are limited en route, bring lunch.

🚨DISCLAIMER:
Event Participation Disclaimer
By signing up for an event we host, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

• The organisers are not qualified hiking leaders, certified first aiders, or formally trained in navigation, survival, or any related disciplines.
• These hikes are informal, self-guided gatherings of like-minded individuals.
• The hosts expressly disclaim all responsibility and liability for any injuries, accidents, or safety incidents that may occur during participation.
• Participation is entirely voluntary, and all attendees are solely responsible for their own safety and well-being.
• These events are non-commercial and are organised purely as a recreational hobby, with no business or financial interests involved.
• Hiking and outdoor activities inherently carry risks of personal injury. By choosing to participate, you accept these risks and take full responsibility for your own actions and decisions.

🚨GENERAL GROUP POLICY:

• Voluntary Participation: Attendance is at your own risk. The group and hosts bear no liability.
• No Professional Duty of Care: Hosts are volunteers, not trained guides or medical professionals.
• Insurance Is Your Responsibility: If desired, you must arrange your own personal insurance.
• Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles at all times.
• Emergency Preparedness: You are responsible for organising your own emergency plan.
• Weather and Safety: Events may be cancelled or changed if conditions are deemed unsafe.
• Self-Assessment Required: You must honestly assess your fitness and ability to keep pace with the group.
• No Guaranteed Rescue: While help may be offered, full rescue capabilities should not be expected.
• No Minors Without Guardians: Participants must be over 21.
• Right to Refuse Participation: Hosts may turn away any individual who appears unprepared or poses a safety risk to others.
• First Aid Preparedness Encouraged: It is highly recommended that each participant carries a small first aid kit for minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes, bites, and blisters.

🚨FINAL ACKNOWLEDGMENT:
By attending this event, you confirm that you are participating voluntarily and at your own risk. Neither the host nor the group accepts responsibility for any injury, loss, or damage incurred.

• 08:15 – Meet at London Victoria Station, main ticket office
• 08:30 – Leave the meeting point
• 08:46 – Train departs from London Victoria to Eastbourne
• 10:13 – Arrive at Eastbourne
• 🎟️ Buy a return ticket from London Victoria to Eastbourne – £29.20 with a Network Railcard.
• Check nation rail for exact train times on the day.

📍 MEETING POINT OPTION 2:

• 10:15 – Meet inside Eastbourne Station, next to the benches

🚶WALK STARTS:

• 10:30 - Eastbourne Station, next to the benches

🏁 WALK FINISHES:

• Approx 18:00 – Eastbourne Station (depending on group pace)

TRAINS - RETURN:

• 18:00 – Direct from Eastbourne to London Victoria (arrives 19:34)
• 19:00 – Direct from Eastbourne to London Victoria (arrives 20:34)

⚠️ TERRAIN, CONDITIONS AND DIFFICULTY:

• Distance: approx. 26 km (16 miles)
• Ascent: 449 m | Descent: 447 m
• Max Elevation: 164 m
• Hiking Time: approx. 6 hours
• Total Time: approx. 7.5 hours
• Pace: Brisk, moving speed 4–6 kph

🥪 LUNCH

• Around the 13 km mark, bring packed lunch and snacks

🎒WHAT TO BRING:

• Packed lunch and snacks
• Water (at least 2L)
• Sturdy hiking boots
• Layers and waterproof clothing
• Sun protection
• Medication and basic first aid
• Daypack and optional walking poles
• Fully charged phone

📞CONTACT:

• Message the event host directly via Meetup with any questions.

⚠️ CLIFF SAFETY WARNING:

• The chalk cliffs along the Seven Sisters are unstable and can collapse without warning. For your safety, always stay well back from the edge. These cliffs are stunning but dangerous, please respect the terrain to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.

⚠️OUTDOOR GROUP POLICY & DISCLAIMER
1. Purpose and Nature of the Group
We are a volunteer-led hiking community, not a business, guiding service, or first aid provider. All activities are peer-led and informal. You are responsible for your own safety, actions, and wellbeing.
2. Participation & Risk

• By attending, you accept that hiking involves risks such as:
• Personal injury, illness, or accidents
• Sudden weather changes
• Challenging terrain (mud, cliffs, rivers, etc.)
• Wildlife encounters
• Navigational challenges

You are expected to:

• Honestly assess your fitness and experience
• Prepare appropriately for the route and weather
• Bring your own supplies (water, food, first aid kit)
• Carry a charged phone and offline navigation tools
• Arrange personal accident insurance if desired.

Organisers may decline participation if safety is a concern.

3. Code of Conduct
3.1 Safety & Behaviour

• Follow all safety advice and local laws
• No smoking, vaping, or drug use during hikes
• No alcohol unless explicitly permitted
• No loud music or headphones in situations requiring awareness
• Communicate with the group if you become separated. Separation is strongly discouraged.

Unsafe or disrespectful behaviour will not be tolerated.
We’re committed to maintaining a friendly, respectful, and welcoming space for all. If you ever experience any interactions, inside or outside the group, that make you feel uncomfortable, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
3.2 Emergency Preparedness

• Bring suitable clothing for changing conditions
• Know local emergency contact numbers
• Understand that rescue may not be possible or guaranteed

3.3 Respect for Nature

• Leave No Trace. Take your rubbish home.
• Stay on marked paths to protect the environment
• Do not disturb wildlife or remove plants
• Respect landowners, close gates, and follow signs

3.4 Respect for Others

• Be considerate of fellow hikers and other trail users
• Offer help when appropriate, but know that rescue is not guaranteed
• Disruptive behaviour may result in permanent removal from the group

4. Participation Rules

• Adults aged 21 and over
• No children or pets on our hikes
• Read the event description and difficulty before attending
• Organisers may change or cancel events due to weather, safety, or availability

5. Communication & Navigation

• Bring a map, GPS, or offline navigation app
• Let the organiser know if you leave the group
• Share your emergency contact info with someone you trust before the hike

6. Photo and Media

• Photos may be shared in group chats or on social media.

If you do not wish to appear in photos, please inform the organiser before the event.

• Members must use a clear, real profile photo. Fake or AI-generated images are not allowed. Contact us if you need a privacy-friendly alternative.

7. Event Cancellations and Changes

• Events may be cancelled or rescheduled at short notice due to weather, safety concerns, or organiser availability.

Check for updates before travelling.

8. Behaviour & Consequences

• Members are expected to act respectfully and responsibly.
• Violations of these rules may result in removal from events or permanent exclusion from the group.

✅ Final Acknowledgement
By joining any activity, you confirm that you:

• Have read and understood the group rules and Outdoor Group Policy & Disclaimer.
• Accept full responsibility for your safety.
• Acknowledge that organisers and the group accept no liability.
• Agree to follow these guidelines so we can all enjoy the hikes together.

SUMMARY:
🥾 17 km | Linear Walk | Ascent: 335 m | Duration: ~ 5 hours
📍 Start: Deal train Station at 10:40
🚆 Direct trains from London St Pancras International
🏁 Finish: Dover approx. 16:00-17:00
⚠️ Coastal cliffs & Uneven terrain
📈 Grade: Easy/Moderate

ABOUT:
This linear walk offers breathtaking panoramic views of the English Channel, the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, multiple coastlines, historical landmarks, and the beaches of Kent. The route is well served with cafés, tea rooms, and public toilets. We begin at Deal railway station and conclude at a pub near Dover Priory railway station.

DESCRIPTION:
The walk begins in the historic town of Deal. We head towards the seafront to see Deal Pier, which, at 311 metres, is one of only a few piers in Kent and is coincidentally the same length as the RMS Titanic. Shortly afterward, we arrive at Deal Castle, an impressive Tudor artillery fort built by Henry VIII as part of a chain of coastal defences.

We then follow the beach and promenade, passing Walmer Castle and Gardens, another of Henry VIII’s coastal forts, now known for its beautifully maintained grounds and historical significance. The Duke of Wellington once lived and died here while serving as Lord Warden of the Cinque Ports.

Continuing along the coastline, we pass through Kingsdown, a charming seaside village, and ascend towards the Dover Patrol Memorial. This prominent obelisk was designed by Sir Aston Webb and commemorates the Royal Navy’s Dover Patrol, which protected the Channel during World War I.

Our route then leads us to St Margaret’s Bay, a picturesque coastal village where we stop for lunch. Here, you'll find the former holiday home of Ian Fleming, author of the James Bond novels. It is a white house with distinctive green shutters overlooking the bay.

After lunch, we begin our scenic chalk clifftop walk along the White Cliffs of Dover, offering sweeping views of the English Channel. On a clear day, you may even spot the cliffs of France. This stretch of coastline played a key defensive role in both World Wars.

We pause for a short break at the South Foreland Lighthouse, a National Trust site and the first lighthouse to use electric light. The views from here are spectacular and provide a great photo opportunity.

We then continue along the cliff path, enjoying stunning vistas of the Port of Dover, Dover Castle, and the striking white cliffs that have become a symbol of Britain's maritime heritage. Our walk concludes at a welcoming pub close to Dover Priory railway station, where we can relax and reflect on the day’s journey.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Deal Castle – A Tudor artillery fort built by Henry VIII, right on the seafront.
• Walmer Castle and Gardens – Historic residence with beautifully maintained gardens; once home to the Duke of Wellington.
• Dover Patrol Memorial – A striking coastal monument commemorating the Royal Navy’s role in World War I.
• St Margaret’s Bay – A charming seaside stop with seasonal café, restaurant, and public toilets.
• South Foreland Lighthouse (National Trust) – Historic lighthouse with a tearoom and toilets; offers stunning Channel views.
• White Cliffs of Dover – Iconic chalk cliffs with sweeping vistas and rich wartime history.
• Port of Dover – A busy harbour with views of ferries, cruise ships, and international maritime activity.
• Dover Castle – One of England’s most impressive fortresses, overlooking the Channel from the hilltop.

COST:

• Free

TRAINS:

• Outbound: Trains from London St Pancras International
• Visit National Rail for details

MEETING POINT & TIME:

• Walk starts: 10:40 from outside the Deal railway station, main entrance
• Walk finishes: Approx. 16:00–17:00 in Dover railway station

DISTANCE AND DIFFICULTY:

• Total distance: approx. 17 km (10 miles)
• Ascent: 335 m
• Grade: Easy/Moderate
• Pace: Approx. 5 km/h (~3.1 mph)

GUIDE:

• See attendee list

WHAT TO BRING:

• Water (2 litres recommended)
• Snacks and packed lunch
• Rainproof (ideally waterproof) clothing
• Sturdy shoes or hiking boots

SAFETY:

• As adults, you are fully responsible for your own safety and decisions throughout the walk.
• ⚠️Coastal cliffs & Uneven terrain

NOTES:

• This is a group hike led by volunteers. Everyone is welcome to join.
• A few wrong turns? That’s part of the fun!
• While you're free to “hike your own hike,” we encourage group participation, get to know one another, make new friends, and enjoy the journey together.
• Food options are limited en route, bring lunch.

DISCLAIMER:
Event Participation Disclaimer
By signing up for an event we host, you acknowledge and agree to the following:

• The organisers are not qualified hiking leaders, certified first aiders, or formally trained in navigation, survival, or any related disciplines.
• These hikes are informal, self-guided gatherings of like-minded individuals.
• The hosts expressly disclaim all responsibility and liability for any injuries, accidents, or safety incidents that may occur during participation.
• Participation is entirely voluntary, and all attendees are solely responsible for their own safety and well-being.
• These events are non-commercial and are organised purely as a recreational hobby, with no business or financial interests involved.
• Hiking and outdoor activities inherently carry risks of personal injury. By choosing to participate, you accept these risks and take full responsibility for your own actions and decisions.

GENERAL GROUP POLICY:

• Voluntary Participation: Attendance is at your own risk. The group and hosts bear no liability.
• No Professional Duty of Care: Hosts are volunteers, not trained guides or medical professionals.
• Insurance Is Your Responsibility: If desired, you must arrange your own personal insurance.
• Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles at all times.
• Emergency Preparedness: You are responsible for organising your own emergency plan.
• Weather and Safety: Events may be cancelled or changed if conditions are deemed unsafe.
• Self-Assessment Required: You must honestly assess your fitness and ability to keep pace with the group.
• No Guaranteed Rescue: While help may be offered, full rescue capabilities should not be expected.
• No Minors Without Guardians: Participants must be over 21.
• Right to Refuse Participation: Hosts may turn away any individual who appears unprepared or poses a safety risk to others.
• First Aid Preparedness Encouraged: It is highly recommended that each participant carries a small first aid kit for minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes, bites, and blisters.

FINAL ACKNOWLEDGMENT:
By attending this event, you confirm that you are participating voluntarily and at your own risk. Neither the host nor the group accepts responsibility for any injury, loss, or damage incurred.