Walk 2 : Woldingham to Oxted

Main walk: 17km (10˝ miles). Four hours 40 minutes walking time. For the whole excursion including meals and trains, allow at least 7˝ hours.

Short walk: 11Ľkm (7 miles), three hours walking time.

OS Explorer Map 146

4 out of 10

This walk is only just outside the London boundary, and yet the first part through the valleys of Marden Park feels completely rural. There are several places on the North Downs Way between Oxted Downs and Gravelly Hill which would make good picnic spots; the fine views along this section just about compensate for the incessant grumbling from the M25 below. The section along the Greensand Way from Godstone to Oxted is quite different, with attractive villages and greens. The landscape here is dotted with ponds, interesting churches and plenty of pubs.

Trains go from London Victoria to Woldingham, journey time 32 minutes. Oxted is one stop further down the line, so buy a day return to Oxted. For those driving, park at Woldingham in the station car park. There are half-hourly trains for the short journey back from Oxted.

Take the train nearest to 9.50am from London Victoria Station to Woldingham. For the Short Walk, the train nearest to 10.50am is recommended.

There is a wide choice of pubs in Godstone or Old Oxted and along the Greensand Way. See the document for further details.

Robertson's 42 Station Road West, Oxted (01883-712777). Serves tea, coffee and light meals up to 4.30pm, Mon-Sat. It is the suggested tea stop.