Skip to content

Backpacking London

Explore backpacking groups and meet fellow adventurers

Free Hike: The Battle of Hastings with fish and chips. Approx. 18miles

Sat, Jun 27, 8:24 AM
From The London 1000ft Hiking Club 👣👣
4.8
25 attendees
Seven Oaks the Lavender Way (13 or 14 miles)

Seven Oaks the Lavender Way (13 or 14 miles)

Sat, Jul 11, 9:20 AM
From FREE Outdoor Trips From London
4.8

A day that rises with a scent of lavender, settles to the gentle sound of leather on willow. First we head to Castle Farm renowned for its lavender fields, which has a farm shop with everything lavender money can buy. And their permissive path runs alongside a lavender field for a purple photo. There's always a Saxon resonance. Beyond the Lavender Farm and lunch in Shoreham, the walk passes the place where Edmund Ironside repelled Cnut and his Vikings in 1016 AD. Next stop is Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve, which has a visitor centre and birds tweeting hello 🐦‍⬛🪿🦆 https://visitsevenoaks.co.uk/attraction/sevenoaks-wildlife-reserve/ Journey's end is Sevenoaks railway station, or after another 10 minutes the Vine, a green space and venue for cricket since local Lord Sackville filled with Kentish pride arranged a match against Sussex in 1734. There is a free house bar and it's the perfect place to laze in the late afternoon sun for a while and chat and rehydrate. The 2nd XI will be playing Tunbridge Wells 🏏🍺 TRAVEL: Take the 9.40 train from London Bridge to CHELSFIELD (Zone 6). Walk starts 10.20 AM from Chelsfield station. Walk ends at SEVENOAKS The off peak single back from Sevenoaks to London is £5.55 with a Groupsave or Network card *How to join?* * The walk is entirely free of charge; * You only arrange for your own travel and pub expenses; * Understand our terms and conditions below (the "IMPORTANT" part); * Understand how to stay safe outdoors, as you will be responsible for yourself. See our quick safety tips: http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/ Feel free to ask any questions in the comments section! IMPORTANT Please bear in mind this is a free of charge, self-guided trip with a hobby group. It is not organized by a business nor any entity with commercial purposes. Any trip details, travel advice, route planning, instructions and other content in our group merely represent our shared personal knowledge, research and suggestions as outdoor enthusiasts. As this is no business, there is no "product", "service" or "package" and also no "tour guide", "operator" or "walk leader". Each participant is responsible for their own safety. Even if some of us are very experienced walking outdoors, nobody assumes responsibility for any kind of injury, damage or loss that may happen. Despite this, we take extreme precautions and all trips we plan are very safe, fun, highly educational and popular. Our experienced members volunteer their time and effort to shape a pleasant and quality adventure for everyone :-) By participating you acknowledge and agree with this disclaimer. Here are our tips on staying safe during outdoor trips: http://www.meetup.com/Free-Outdoor-Trips-From-London/about/ TRAVEL, ACCOMMODATION, INSURANCE Although we provide detailed suggestions, each participant is expected to arrange their own travel and (if required) accommodation - this gives everyone the freedom and choice to join from wherever they want and stay wherever they want. Anyone interested in travel or outdoor insurance should also arrange this on their own. As mentioned above we always take extreme precautions, but some people may still feel safer if covered. We advise not to buy tickets until the day. People getting tickets from the same station are encouraged to meet early on the day to benefit from discounts such as GroupSave.

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
65 attendees
GREECE! THESSALONIKI, METEORA, Mt Olympus authentic villages! BEACH,GASTRONOMY

GREECE! THESSALONIKI, METEORA, Mt Olympus authentic villages! BEACH,GASTRONOMY

Fri, Jul 31, 2:00 PM
From Out & About London - Socialising
4.4

**Summer in Greece is a mindset! Come on your own or with friends and be immersed in its simplicity and magnificence!** \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\**still 2 more places!* **TAKING BOOKINGS UNTIL 15 JULY\*\*\*\*** *Think of a BEACH SUMMER HOLIDAY in a beautiful seaside town, exploring and discovering amazing nature and picture perfect landscapes, authentic Greek cuisine the local way, a unique location combining mountain and beach, beauty, ideal for recharging, energising, chilling out & relaxing, enjoying sun bathing and swimming, sun downer aperitifs in scenic beach bars as the evening falls with a friendly group of travel companions in a summer mode indeed.* **Flying into Thessaloniki, Greece's 2nd capital city, renown for its capturing, magical vibe, its culture and beauty, the vast beautiful sea front, the mouthwatering awarded local food, the 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and not only.** **Mt Olympus sides boast numerous photogenic traditional villages with cobbled narrow streets and breathtaking views that we will exclusively visit!** **What is more, life is ... a BEACH! Yes please, every single day! No wonder why the 12 Gods in ancient Greece chose to live there!** **Friday, 31st July : arrive in Thessaloniki.** Meet-up in the city centre, enjoy an iced coffee the greek way by the seafront and dinner in the food haven of Ladadika area, indulging in local specialties and live music, a vibrant experience evolving in the heart of the city in the summer. **Saturday, 1st August:** A walk around the historical city centre with Eleni 'as a local' to explore its UNESCO world heritage sites and exclusive flavours, sampling sweet and savoury culinary experiences in hidden gems as we go, admiring the diverse architecture of the city, a fine blend of Ancient, Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman civilisations, catching up with some of their well hidden secrets and legends. *If you'd like to visit the important Archaeological, Byzantine & Jewish Museums, the upper town walls, see inside the White Tower as well as other UNESCO World Heritage sights, staying for a day or two prior to our stay in Platamonas, it's highly recommended. Further guidance and arrangements can be provided if / as required.* In the late afternoon we are reaching Platamonas by private transfer, perfectly in time for a refreshing swim, on the foot of the castle! **Based in the scenic, seaside town of Platamonas...** **Sunday, 2nd August:** An optional full day trip to METEORA, a renown UNESCO site, with breathtaking views high up from the alien like sky high rock formations and the exclusively unique to visit, 14th century monasteries built literally on the top of the rocks. **Monday, 3rd August** : Half day optional trip to picturesque Mt Olympus traditional villages. We are visiting Litochoro with Enipeas river where Zeus used to bathe, with an optional mild hike, visiting St Dionisios 15th century monastery and onsite museum, meandering in the cobbled streets of the truly photogenic Paleos Panteleimon where the Muses played as in mythology, with a local food experience by the byzantine church and the natural spring in the picturesque square of the village. **Tuesday, 4th August:** Relaxing morning at your own time, afternoon optional visit (with an easy hike up the hill) to the 10th century Byzantine castle of Platamonas, beach time in Gallaria, a former train tunnel converted into a popular vibrant beach bar where the pine trees almost reach the sea, sea side meal on the popular beach tavern. **Wednesday, 5th August:** Relaxing morning, beach time, return flight! **We are spending late afternoons - early evenings at leisure on various organised beach bars with *all necessary facilities offering free loungers upon consumption*** *and* some of them water-sports, traditional sea side taverns in a laid back atmosphere, enjoying the beauty of summer, recharging for winter! *The area of Platamonas is renown for its organic foods, natural healing herbs from Mt Olympus, raw honey and so on. Make sure you stock up for your remedies!* 🌸💪 **Your investment of £649 includes : (this price is an offer for a limited amount of rooms, then price goes up, be prompt please)** **-1 night (31/7) in a double room for SINGLE occupancy, (you have your own room) in a 3\* hotel in Thessaloniki with local breakfast buffet, very centrally located.** **-4 nights (1/8 - 5/8) in a DOUBLE studio for SINGLE occupancy (you have your own room) similar to a 3 star local style, self-catering with a balcony, own basic kitchenette & cooking facilities in Platamonas town,** minutes on foot away from the beach with plenty of cafes, shops, bars, and restaurants around, yet quiet and secluded from the hustle and bustle. **-A traditional meal with a variety of local meze, appetisers and sharers, local specialties in an authentic tavern literally by the sea on the last day, to conclude the holiday with delicious memories!** ***-All necessary arrangements & services for a smooth experience. Eleni is leading the group throughout the trip.*** ***YOU MAY BRING YOUR PLUS ONE person sharing the same room, be in touch for the exact price, is suitable and available.*** **NOT INCLUDED :** **-Flights, Transport, taxis (approximately £30 per person each way for a shared ride from Thessaloniki to Platamonas, depending on number of people sharing) & daily excursions, anything mentioned as optional** ***YOU NEED TO BOOK YOUR OWN FLIGHTS TO THESSALONIKI, GREECE (SKG IS THE AIRPORT CODE)*** Recommendations can be provided, please check for direct flights with Ryanair, Easyjet, British Airways from all London airports. **Once you are ready to book, please RSVP and message ELENI to receive the payment details for a bank transfer in order to confirm your place in the sun! As August is the busiest month in Greece, places are filling up quickly and availability is rather limited due to the popularity of the season.** ***CONFIRM AVAILABILITY WITH THE GROUP FIRST, BEFORE YOU BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS! This trip is confirmed and going ahead.*** *LOVE YOUR LIFE a bit extra this SUMMER! Have that cocktail on the beach, watch the shooting stars at night!* **YOU MUST MAKE ARRANGEMENTS FOR YOUR OWN TRAVEL INSURANCE & ENSURE YOUR PASSPORT ALLOWS TRAVEL TO GREECE** By attending this trip-meet-up event, you are fully responsible for your own personal safety and attitude.

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
7 attendees
HILLY HIKE 16km The Hidden Valleys, Vineyards and Palaces of Kent

HILLY HIKE 16km The Hidden Valleys, Vineyards and Palaces of Kent

Sun, Aug 2, 7:10 AM
From Outdooraholics London Hiking & Adventure Travel 25 to 49ish
4.8

**🌳 Large Group Social Hike** One of our **bigger, more sociable** hikes. Prefer a smaller group? See our standard-size hikes. 📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 10 miles (16km) • Grading: [Intermediate](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 340m • Hiking time: 4.5 to 5 hours • Cost: £31 (includes guided hike + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet Breaks: On the train, at the lunch stop, and at the end vineyard 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: Victoria station. Meet between WHSmith (no 34) and Nero Express (no 29) - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/Victoria.jpg) & [PHOTO](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/VictoriaPhoto.jpg) • Time: Meet 8:10am, leave 8:30am for the 8:44am train • Return: 5:35pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Explore **Otford village**, rich in Roman, Saxon and royal history • See **Britain’s tiniest listed building** — the famous Otford duck house • Visit the remains of **Otford Palace**, once grander than Hampton Court • Hike along the **North Downs Way** and the ancient **Pilgrims Way** • Pause at **Otford Mount**, with views across the valley and a Bronze Age barrow • Enjoy lunch at a 500-year-old traditional pub “time forgot” • Conclude at a **family-owned vineyard** with optional wine flight & stone-baked pizza 🥾 **Hike Description** Our hike begins in the tranquil **Darent Valley**, following the Darent Valley Path into the historic village of **Otford**. Here we encounter remarkable landmarks including the quirky duck house — Britain’s smallest Grade II listed building — and the evocative ruins of **Otford Palace**, once a Tudor residence larger than Hampton Court and known as “the lost palace of Henry VIII.” From Otford we join the historic **North Downs Way**, tracing part of the medieval **Pilgrims Way** that itself followed an even older Stone Age track. The path leads to **Otford Mount**, where a Bronze Age barrow crowns the ridge and panoramic views stretch across the valley. Continuing onwards, we cross the nature-rich chalk grassland of **Kemsing Down** and pass by **Otford Manor**, high above the valley, before descending through woodland and fields. Midway, we pause for lunch at a traditional **500-year-old pub**, hidden away in the countryside. Inside, little has changed since the 1960s, giving it a nostalgic charm that feels like stepping back in time. With its rustic character, it makes for a unique and memorable break on our journey. Our adventure ends at a **family-owned vineyard**, where you can sample local Kentish wines with an optional extra - tasting flight and stone-baked pizza. Surrounded by vines and rolling hills, this picturesque stop — complete with a boutique shop selling locally produced gifts — is the perfect finale to a day exploring Kent’s landscapes, history and hidden gems. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [GRAHAM](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07796 098487 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch • Vineyard visit after the hike (drinks optional) 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
18 attendees
Hastings to Rye, magnificent Saxon Shore Way

Hastings to Rye, magnificent Saxon Shore Way

Sat, Jul 4, 7:50 AM
From GO London Hiking
4.8

Hike the first part of Saxon Shore Way, through the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This is a hilly cliff walk with four steep climbs and a remote naturist beach. **GRADE:** Intermediate/, 21km / 13 miles, 460m of ascent and approx 6 hr walking time. This is a spectacular walk, linear, from Hastings to Rye, with breathtaking views of the dramatic chalk sea cliffs on the English Channel coast in south-east England. Saxon Shore Way is a long-distance walk, 257km (160 miles), linking Gravesend to Hastings, following England’s southeastern coastline. Starting from the Hasting railway station, we are heading through town towards the coast. Hastings nowadays is mostly connected with the battle of 1066, although it existed long before as a small community. It became a Saxon settlement after the Romans left early in the 5th century, taking its name from the group of Saxon invaders, the Haestengas. We continue walking on the coastal path and enter Hasting Country Park. As we walk to the top of the sea cliffs, we enjoy the spectacular coastal views. We hike through the wooded Ecclesbourne Glen and Meadow and several woods and fields before arriving at Fairlight. We cross the village before continuing on the cliff footpath towards Cliff End. At this point, we join the Royal Military Canal towpath, leading us inland towards Winchelsea before entering the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve and following the River Bride to Rye. **COST**: £10.00 organiser fee pay on RSVP **MEETING POINT & TIME**: 08:50 at London Bridge train station, in front of the main train ticket office. Second meeting point at 10:50 at Hastings station. **TRAINS**: Trains from London Bridge station. We will take the 09:24 Southeastern train to Hastings, arriving at Hastings at 10:47 (journey time 1hr 32 min, direct). Return train from Rye. You can purchase group save tickets (minimum group of 3) or with Network railcard approx at approx £35. **WALK STARTS**: 10:55 at Hastings station **WALK FINISHES**: Approx 18:00 at Rye. **Hike Leader**: Fofi **What to bring**: packed lunch, snacks, water, suitable clothing, and hiking footwear. **Kit list**: click here (https://www.meetup.com/GO-London/pages/Kit_List%27s/) **Terms and conditions**: by signing up to a GO London event you are agreeing with our terms and conditions and participation statement. Click here (https://www.meetup.com/GO-London/pages/Terms_And_Conditions/) **To view our full calendar**: https://www.meetup.com/GO-London/events/ **Facebook page**: https://www.facebook.com/GoLondonAdventure/ **Facebook group**: https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoLondonHiking/

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
16 attendees
HIKE 22km The Sussex Weald, Ardingly reservoir and the Ouse Valley viaduct

HIKE 22km The Sussex Weald, Ardingly reservoir and the Ouse Valley viaduct

Sun, Jun 28, 7:00 AM
From Outdooraholics London Hiking & Adventure Travel 25 to 49ish
4.8

📏 **Key Info:** • Distance: 14 miles (22km) • Grading: [Intermediate/Challenging](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/HikeGradings.pdf) • Ascent: 470m • Hiking time: 5.5 to 6.5 hours • Cost: £31 (includes guided hike + return train) • Refunds: Payments are non-refundable and non-transferable. If you follow our [[Resale Process](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf)] and your place is rebooked, we’ll issue a refund. • Toilet Breaks: On the train, at the lunch stop, and at the end pub 📍 **Meeting Point** • Location: IMPORTANT - London Bridge station has several levels, please check the map below before you leave home and also arrive at least 10 minutes early to get to the meeting point. London Bridge station. Meet upstairs (top floor - so go up the escalators) between WHSmith (no 15) and M&S (no 16) - [MAP](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LondonBridge.jpg) & [PHOTO1](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LondonBridgePhoto1.jpg), [PHOTO2](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/StationPhotos/LondonBridgePhoto2.jpg) • Time: Meet 8am, leave 8:20am for the 8:35am train • Return: 6:05pm arrival back in London (you’re committed until then) 🌟 **Highlights** • Walk beneath the **Ouse Valley Viaduct**, a Victorian masterpiece of 11 million bricks with its “never-ending” arches • Pass the **Millennium Seedbank**, the world’s largest wild plant seed collection with 1.9 billion seeds • Enjoy **ice creams or hot drinks at Ardingly Reservoir**, home to abundant birdlife • Hike scenic **wooded trails of the Sussex Weald** • Visit **Ardingly Reservoir**, holding 5 billion litres of fresh water • See the historic **Wakehurst Place**, a 16th-century mansion with National Trust gardens • Discover the tranquil hidden gem of **Balcombe Lake** 🥾 **Hike Description** Our hike begins from the rural station of **Balcombe**, leading us straight into the rolling fields and wooded trails of West Sussex. The highlight comes early as we pass under the spectacular **Ouse Valley Viaduct**, often described as the most beautiful viaduct in England. Built in 1841 at a cost of £38,500, its 37 arches and 11 million imported bricks create a striking and photogenic landmark — a perfect stop for photos beneath its “never-ending” symmetry. From here, our route continues through gentle countryside to the wide expanse of **Ardingly Reservoir**, which holds an incredible 5 billion litres of fresh water. Its banks are home to a wide variety of birdlife, and we pause here for refreshments, with the chance to grab an ice cream or hot drink. The trail then leads us onwards through peaceful woodland paths and open fields, reaching the grounds of **Wakehurst Place**, a 16th-century mansion and today the most visited National Trust property in the country. Nearby sits the world-famous **Millennium Seedbank**, which holds 1.9 billion seeds from more than 75,000 species — the largest wild plant seed collection on Earth. We complete the circuit by returning through more wooded tracks to **Balcombe Lake**, a small and picturesque hidden gem nestled among the trees. This makes for a peaceful finale to a hike that combines Victorian engineering, rural beauty, and world-leading conservation. 🧭 **Guide:** • Leader: [GRAHAM](https://www.outdooraholics.co.uk/MeetTheOutdooraholics.pdf) • Contact (hike day only): 07796 098487 🍽️ **Food:** • Bring a packed lunch • Pub visit after the hike (drinks optional) 🎒**What to Bring** • Hiking boots/shoes • Water (2 litres minimum) • Packed lunch • Waterproofs (jacket and trousers) • Hat and gloves if cold • Train tickets are arranged – just meet us at the meeting point ⚠️ **Safety** Your guide is a trained hike leader and Outdoor Activity First Aider ❓ **Want to Know More?** • [New to Our Trips?](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/new_to_our_day_hikes.pdf) (perfect for first-timers, answers “what to expect”) • [About Us](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/about_us.pdf) (who Outdooraholics are, credibility, history) • [FAQs](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/FAQ.pdf) (covers common queries) 📲 **Explore More &** **Stay Connected** [Day hikes list](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/hikesbygrade.pdf) 👣 [Calendar - All trips](https://www.meetup.com/outdooraholics/events/calendar/) 📖 [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/outdooraholics/) 📸 [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/Outdooraholics) & [Photos group](https://www.facebook.com/groups/Outdooraholics) 📄 **Terms and Conditions** By signing up or attending you agree to our [Terms and Conditions](https://outdooraholics.co.uk/TermsConditionsOutdooraholicsHikingUK.pdf) © Outdooraholics Hiking UK Ltd 2026 E & OE

  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
  • Photo of the user
26 attendees
430kMonthly events
calendar icon
60mMembers
people1 icon
4.5App store rating
appStore icon
200kGroups
people2 icon

Frequently asked questions

Meetup is a platform where you can find and join groups that share your interests. It's a great way to attend events, meet people, and engage in activities you love.

Simply search for hiking or backpacking groups in the London area on Meetup. You'll find a variety of events organized by local groups that you can join.

Joining groups on Meetup is typically free, but some events may require a nominal fee. Check each event's page for specific information.

Yes, you can join multiple groups that spark your interest. This allows you to participate in a wider array of events and meet diverse hikers.

To RSVP for a Meetup event, find the event on the group's page and use the RSVP button to confirm your attendance. This ensures organizers know how many people to expect.

Once you've joined a group, you can propose your own events. Engage with the group organizers and share your backpacking ideas.

Events are organized by group hosts or volunteers, not Meetup directly. This allows for a wide range of activities created by passionate individuals.

Frequency varies by group. Some organize weekly hikes, while others might plan less frequently. Checking the group's calendar can provide clarity.

Read event descriptions carefully and check past reviews. Participating actively in group discussions also helps set realistic expectations.

While Meetup houses countless groups, availability depends on local organizers. Some areas may offer limited options, reliant on community activity.

Most are, given the nature of backpacking, but occasional planning meetings might be indoors. Check each event summary for details.

Meetup focuses on group activities rather than one-on-one connections. To maximize meeting new partners, engage in group events frequently.

While many events occur within London's boundaries, some may explore nearby trails. Details are provided on each event's page.

By joining backpacking events, you interact with like-minded individuals. These shared experiences foster connections and friendships.

Quality varies as events are user-organized. Review event details and past attendee feedback for insight into the organization.