As the chill of winter melts away, spring emerges, bringing with it the promise of warmer days, blooming landscapes, and the perfect conditions for outdoor adventures near London through 12 exquisite spring walks near London. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker looking for a challenge, a family in search of a leisurely day out, or a nature enthusiast eager to capture the beauty of spring flowers, the area surrounding London offers a plethora of walking trails that cater to every interest and fitness level. From the enchanting bluebell woods of Ashridge Estate to the breathtaking vistas along the Seven Sisters cliffs, and from the legendary Devil’s Dyke to the serene escapades through Richmond Park, each walk presents a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature, history, and oneself.
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Isle of Portland Walk – Complete Guide & Map
Embarking on the Isle of Portland Walk is a journey through breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and the serene beauty of the Dorset coastline. Spanning 9 miles, this intermediate-level walk invites adventurers to explore the unique charm of the Isle of Portland, from its towering cliffs to its tranquil beaches. Reaching the highest point at 443 feet, participants are guaranteed stunning views and a satisfying challenge. So, lace up your walking boots and prepare for an unforgettable journey through the Isle of Portland’s most iconic sights.
Let’s venture further away from London with this walk around the Isle of Portland, near Weymouth. Easier to access by car than public transport (though doable), this walk feels like a foreign holiday without leaving England. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Logistics of the Isle of Portland Walk
Distance: 9 miles (14.5 km)
Total Ascent: 725 ft (221 m)
Highest Point: 443 ft (135 m)
Lowest Point: – 9.8 ft (-3 m)
Walking Estimate: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Difficulty: Intermediate
How to get there:
- By car to the New Ground Car Park, DT5 1LQ. This is a circular walk if you don’t go down to the beach at the end, if not you would have to walk back up to the car park. The car park is not free of charge.
- By public transport, take a train from London Paddington or London Waterloo to Weymouth. Depending on the journey you can find direct trains or you may have to change at Reading or Basingstoke. The journey takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes.
- You then need to take the Portland Link bus from King Street to the Isle of Portland. The journey takes just under 30 minutes.
For the Return:
- Drive back to London
- Take the Portland Link bus to Weymouth Train Station and a train back to London.
Tip: There are more direct trains running on Sundays than on Saturdays
What to Pack
- Comfortable clothing and footwear
- Headcover and windbreaker as it is windy on the top of the cliffs
- A backpack with water, snacks and a packed lunch
- Sunscreen and sunglasses if the sun is out as the path is exposed
- Rain gear in case rain is forecasted for the same reason
Additional Information:
- There are toilets available at the New Ground Car Park
- There are public toilets available behind the lighthouse
- This is a dog-friendly walk
- This is a stile-free walk
- There is a scrambling part
Where to Eat
- The Lobster Pot, Isle of Portland
- The Cove House Inn, Isle of Portland
Map of the Isle of Portland Walk
Do you want to do this walk? Download the GPS map for free by clicking on the button below. Learn how to upload the map onto your navigation app by following my step-by-step guide here.
Highlights of the Isle of Portland Walk
- Isle of Portland
- Olympic Rings
- Portland Harbour
- Chesil Beach
- Wallabies
- Rufus Castle
- Church Ope Cove
- Portland Bill Lighthouse
- Trinity House Obelisk
- Blacknor Fort
- Tout Quarry Reserve & Sculpture Park
- Sunset on the beach
The Isle of Portland Walk
So now we covered the basics. let’s get to the walk!
Portland Heights
Our adventure begins at the New Ground carpark, nestled atop Portland Heights Beacon Hill. This vantage point offers unparalleled views over Chesil Beach, an impressive 18-mile-long pebble bank that forges a natural bridge between the Isle of Portland and Weymouth. To the right, the harbour unfolds, its history deeply intertwined with the maritime legacy of the area. Constructed between 1848 and 1905, the harbour once served as a pivotal Royal Navy base during both World Wars. It then transitioned into a training ground for the Royal Navy and NATO and then into a civilian port in 1995.
The harbour’s notable role during the 2012 Olympic Games, particularly for the sailing events, is commemorated by a sculpture of the Olympic Rings, a symbol of that unforgettable summer when the world’s gaze was fixed upon Portland Harbour.
Castletown
As we venture towards Castletown, one of the island’s eight settlements, the journey takes us down New Ground towards the northeast.
Here, we share the road with passing vehicles. En route, the silhouette of HMP The Verne. one of the island’s two prisons, emerges on the cliffside. The road leads us past the prison’s gates, flanked by deep moats.
At the end of the road, turn right onto Glacis. I must admit that walking alongside the prison fence is not the prettiest part of this walk. But you will be rewarded in the end as you get to the Fancy’s Farm. This family-friendly destination offers glimpses of diverse animals, from traditional farm inhabitants to exotic alpacas and wallabies, enriching our walk with unexpected encounters.
Grove
As we progress further into our exploration, we arrive at our second significant stop: the Grove. This area of the island is marked by two notable landmarks. The first is the East Weare Battery, a historical gun battery constructed in the 1860s as a defensive measure to safeguard the harbour from potential invasions. By 1956, it had been decommissioned, and today, parts of the remaining structure are recognized as ancient monuments.
The second noteworthy structure is the HR Prison Portland, specifically designated as a Youth Offender Institution for young males aged between 18 to 21 years. Originally inaugurated in 1848 to house male convicts, it significantly contributed manpower to the island’s quarries. By 1921, it had evolved into a youth detention centre and then a Youth Offender Institution (YOI) in 1988. Beyond its primary role, the institution doubles as a rehabilitation centre, offering valuable work experience to the offenders at the Verne Prison cafe, a site we encountered earlier in our walk.
Having explored the rich history of the island’s correctional facilities, we find ourselves at a juncture. Here, at the road’s end, we take a left turn onto a footpath that leads us down the cliff. As we meander along this path, the Isle of Portland reveals itself in a new light. With the expansive sea to our left and the towering chalk cliffs of Grove Cliff behind us, we are enveloped in natural beauty. The view of prison walls and fences fades into memory, replaced by the wild vegetation cascading towards the sea.
Church Ope Cove
Continue your journey down the slopes of Grove Cliff, and you will find yourself confronted with the beauty of a wall in ruins. This remnant is a part of Rufus Castle, the most ancient castle on the island. Constructed under the auspices of King William II, known colloquially as King Rufus, the castle bears his name and legacy.
Over the span of centuries, Rufus Castle has seen a multitude of proprietors, each leaving their mark through various modifications and restorations. The edifice that stands before you, weathered yet resilient, dates back to the fifteenth century. Perched atop a rugged rock, it commands a breathtaking view over the Shambles sandbank—a notoriously treacherous navigation zone that has claimed many a ship. Since 1951, this architectural marvel has been recognized as a Grade I-listed building.
Descend to the beach below, an inviting haven perfect for a break. Here, allow yourself to be soothed by the rhythmic cadence of the waves crashing ashore. Surrounded by the vast expanse of the sea and the quaint charm of colourful cabins, this spot offers an idyllic backdrop for relaxation and contemplation.
However, like all journeys, this moment of peace eventually must come to an end. The path beckons you to leave the beach and rejoin the coastal trail that lies ahead. Fear not the upcoming scramble—it promises to be a manageable ascent, offering another layer of excitement to your exploration.
Bill Lighthouse
As we continue our journey, the path reveals the architectural remnants of a bygone era, where quarried stones were once hoisted onto boats by towering cranes. On the horizon, the iconic Portland Bill Lighthouse, adorned in its striking red and white stripes, marks the southernmost tip of the island, serving as a guiding beacon to mariners.
Historically, the island was safeguarded by two lighthouses: the Old Lower and the Old Higher Lighthouse, both instrumental in navigating ships away from the perilous Shambles sandbank. However, their watchful eyes were dimmed with the commissioning of the current Portland Bill Lighthouse in 1906. The latter continues to operate to this day, albeit remotely since 1996. A visit to this lighthouse invites guests to ascend the 153 steps to its summit, a climb that rewards breathtaking views.
Undoubtedly, the activities of the day are bound to stir up an appetite, making the proximity of the Lobster Pot to the Portland Bill Lighthouse a welcomed convenience. This charming eatery provides a diverse menu of sandwiches, hearty meals, and a selection of beverages, ensuring that there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Replenished, we retrace our steps towards the coastal path’s cliff edge, where another historical marker awaits— the Trinity House Obelisk. Erected in 1844 from the locally sourced Portland Stone, this obelisk is a testament to maritime safety, warning passing ships of the nearby shallow reef.
Blacknor Fort
As you continue your journey along the coastal path, the silhouette of Blacknor Fort gradually comes into view. Constructed between 1900 and 1902, it was initially erected as a formidable bulwark against potential enemy incursions, playing a crucial role in the coastal defences throughout both World Wars.
One of the most poignant chapters in the fort’s history unfolded on the night of 27 April 1944, an event known as the Slapton Sands Massacre. During this dark hour, U.S. soldiers, engaged in preparatory exercises, found themselves under fierce attack by German naval forces. Tragically, Blacknor Fort stood as a helpless witness, with orders strictly forbidding engagement to avoid the risk of inflicting harm on allied troops. The devastating outcome saw the loss of over 600 American lives, many of whom were dragged down into the depths, burdened by their own gear.
By 1956, the fort was officially decommissioned and has since transitioned into private ownership. Today, as the coastal path weaves beneath the cliffs, the Blacknor Fort’s structure becomes challenging to discern, offering little indication that one is passing directly beneath this historic site. Emerging on the other side, visitors are met by a distinctive half-shell formation on the ground. It marks the former site of a powder gun emplacement. This subtle landmark serves as a reminder that Blacknor Fort lies just a stone’s throw away,
Tout Quarry Reserve
We continue on the coastal path until we meet an intriguing stone arch. This is our sign to transition from the rugged cliff edge to the charm of the mainland. This archway acts as a gateway, directing you towards the enchanting realm of the Tout Quarry Reserve & Sculpture Park.
Historically, this quarry played a pivotal role in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, serving as a bustling site for commercial extraction. However, its industrial heartbeat came to a halt in 1982, only to be reborn with a new purpose the following year as a sculpture park. This transformation was spearheaded by the creative endeavours of local artists, whose inaugural sculptures laid the foundation for what would become a dynamic canvas of artistic expression. While some creations have stood the test of time, others were more transient, leaving behind tales of ephemeral beauty.
Each year, the quarry welcomes a fresh wave of artists, infusing the park with an ever-evolving vibrancy. Beyond the art, the quarry cradles an ecosystem of its own, hosting diverse colonies of butterflies and nurturing rare flora like the rock stonecrop.
Entrance to the Tout Quarry Reserve & Sculpture Park is free, offering all who visit the Isle of Portland an irresistible opportunity to immerse themselves in the fusion of art, history, and nature that defines this special place.
Sunset on the Beach
Following an enriching visit to the Tout Quarry, the journey leads us back to the coastal path, initiating a gentle descent towards the picturesque Chesil Beach. En route, a poignant statue captures our attention. Known as The Spirit of Portland, this artwork, conceived by Joanna Szuwalska and unveiled in 2000, embodies the island’s heritage through the figures of a fisherman and a quarryman – pillars of the local economy and community.
As the path unwinds down the hillside, leading to the promenade that hugs the beach, the ambience shifts, drawing us closer to the tranquil rhythm of the sea. The journey culminates at the Cove House Inn, strategically positioned to offer breathtaking views over a pint. Settling on the low wall outside the pub, the vast expanse of the ocean before you, there’s hardly a more fitting conclusion to a day spent exploring the Isle of Portland.
Happy discovery!
Final Thoughts on the Isle of Portland Walk
As the sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow over Chesil Beach, our Isle of Portland Walk draws to a close. This 9-mile journey has not only showcased the stunning landscapes but also the rich history of the island. From the heights of Beacon Hill to the historical Rufus Castle and the peaceful Church Ope Cove, each step has been a discovery. The walk, while challenging, has rewarded us with breathtaking views. So, until next time, carry these experiences with you and remember the Isle of Portland as a place where adventure meets tranquillity, history, and natural beauty.
And you, what is your favourite coastal walk? Let me know in the comments below.
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Wendover To Princes Risborough Walk – Guide & Map
Embarking on a journey through the picturesque Chiltern Hills, the walk from Wendover to Princes Risborough offers an enchanting blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue. Spanning 7.4 miles, this intermediate trek ascends through forested areas and open landscapes, presenting a narrative that weaves through time—from Bronze Age settlers to the legacy of the Black Prince. Along the way, the path reveals the charm of the English countryside, punctuated by the highest points of the Chilterns and the solemnity of the Boer War Monument.
Let’s go to the Chilterns for a walk following a section of the Ridgeway National Trail. This section is a quintessential blend of the English countryside’s charm, history, and physical challenge, ideal for those shorter winter days when the crisp air and clear skies call for exploration.
Logistics of the Ridgeway Walk
Distance: 7.4 miles (11.9 km)
Total Ascent: 869 ft (265 m)
Highest Point: 846 ft (248 m)
Lowest Point: 335 ft (102 m)
Walking Estimate: 3 hours and 15 minutes
Difficulty: Intermediate due to the ascent
How to get there:
- Direct train from London Marylebone Station to Wendover
- The journey takes 50 minutes
For the Return:
- Direct train from Princes Risborough to London Marylebone Station
- The journey takes between 45 minutes to 1 hour and 10 minutes depending on the train
Tip: Wendover and Princes Risborough are not on the same line, but you can save money by booking a day return to Aylesbury where the two lines merge instead of 2 separate journeys.
What to Pack
- Comfortable clothing and footwear
- You are going through forested areas where the path can get muddy, a pair of gaiters is advisable
- A backpack with water, snacks and a packed lunch
- Headcover, sunscreen and sunglasses if the sun is out
- Weather-appropriate gear, including rain protection and wind-resistant accessories for the breezy summit
Additional Information:
- There are toilets available at Wendover Station
- There are toilets available at Princes Risborough Train Station
- There are no public toilets available on this walk however there are customer toilets at the Plough in Cadsden
- This is a dog-friendly walk
Where to Eat
- The Plough, Casden, Surrey
Map of the Ridgeway Walk
Do you want to do this walk? Download the GPS map for free by clicking on the download button below. Learn how to upload the map onto your navigation app by following my step-by-step guide here.
Highlights of the Ridgeway Walk
- Wendover
- The Ridgeway
- Bacombe Hill
- Coombe Hill
- The Boer War Monument
- Brush Hill
- Whiteleaf Hill
- The Chequers
Wendover to Princes Risborough Walk
So now we covered the basics, let’s get to the walk.
The Ridgeway
Our journey today takes us along the Ridgeway National Trail from Wendover to Princes Risborough. Stretching over 87 miles (139 km), the trail begins at Overton Hill in Wiltshire and concludes at the Ashridge Estate in Hertfordshire, segmented into six manageable day sections.
En route, we traverse the rolling chalk downlands of the North Wessex Downs, rich with archaeological sites, before reaching the wooded Chiltern Hills and their quaint villages. Today, we walk a captivating section within the Chilterns, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
Bacombe Hill
Starting at Wendover Station, a brief stroll up Station Approach and a right turn onto Pound Street quickly lead us to the Bacombe Hill Nature Reserve.
Historically a haven for wildflowers and diverse wildlife, these chalk hills once offered the perfect habitat for Bronze Age settlers. Unfortunately, the 20th century saw a decline in livestock farming, leading to unchecked growth of coarse grasses and shrubs, threatening native grassland wildlife. Efforts are now underway to restore this balance, with grazing cattle and strategic tree coppicing helping to rejuvenate the land and allow wildflowers to flourish once more.
The gentle ascent to Bacombe Hill’s summit reveals breathtaking vistas, undiminished by its modest incline.
Coombe Hill
Our path next ascends to Coombe Hill, the highest point in the Chilterns, soaring to 850 feet (260 m) above sea level. The presence of a memorial monument marks your arrival; erected in 1904, it honours the 148 Buckinghamshire men who fell during the Second Boer War.
Despite suffering destruction by lightning in 1938 and again in the early ’90s, the monument now includes conductors to avert further damage.
On days when the sky is clear—unlike during my visit—the panoramic views of Aylesbury Vale below are spectacular. Once part of the Chequers Estate, Coombe Hill was sold to the National Trust following WWI.
The Chequers
Descending from Coombe Hill, we enter Linton Wood, continuing to Goodmerhill Wood, and then onto a field by following the Ridgeway trail. After crossing the field and a road, we approach Chequers, the Prime Minister’s countryside residence.
The origins of its name are debated—some attribute it to a former owner, others to the estate’s chequer trees. It was constructed in the 16th century by William Hawtrey the custodian of Lady Mary Grey, the younger sister of the Nine-Day Queen, Lady Jane Grey, who resided at Bradgate Manor.
The estate has passed through numerous hands before the Lee family bequeathed it to the nation post-WWI as a prime ministerial retreat.
Enter the woods on the other side of the road where the walk along the forest’s edge offers a fleeting view of this historic residence.
Rifle Range Nature Reserve
Proceeding on the Ridgeway, we encounter the Rifle Range Nature Reserve.
The name, perhaps unexpected for a nature reserve, stems from its past life as a practice range for the British Armed Forces from WWII until the late 1970s. With military use ceased, the area now serves as grazing land for sheep and cattle, supporting a habitat rich in butterflies and diverse plant life.
Whiteleaf Hill
The journey towards Whiteleaf Hill is momentarily paused at The Plough Inn—a welcome reprieve for a coffee break before tackling the hill.
Refreshed, we ascend to Whiteleaf Hill, famous for its chalk cross and sheep-grazed grasslands. The origin and purpose of the cross, first recorded in 1742, remain a mystery.
The summit offers another rewarding view before we begin our descent towards Peters Lane.
Brush Hill
Crossing Peters Lane, we face the final climb to Brush Hill, a Local Nature Reserve established in 1997 on what was once farmland abandoned after WWI. Today, it’s a successful conservation site, where chalkland serves as an ideal habitat for a flourishing butterfly population.
Princes Risborough
The concluding leg of our walk brings us to Princes Risborough, a market town nestled in the Chiltern Hills of Buckinghamshire.
With a rich history dating back to the Bronze Age, the town was significantly influenced by the Black Prince, Edward of Woodstock, in the 14th century. In the fourteenth century, he was granted the town’s manor, adjacent to where St Mary’s Church, built 200 years later, now stands. His tenure significantly impacted the town, symbolizing a period of royal favour and prosperity.
The town’s evolution from a rural village to a vibrant community reflects its strategic importance and its role in local trade and agriculture, making it a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity.
Our trail follows the town’s outskirts, missing the Church and the remains of the Black Prince’s palace. As you reach the end of Upper Icknield Way, turn right onto Wycombe Road and continue straight until you reach Station Road.
Happy Discovery!
Final Thoughts on the Ridgeway Walk
In wrapping up the Wendover to Princes Risborough walk, it’s clear that this journey offers more than just physical exercise. It invites you to traverse a route filled with historical significance and natural beauty. The transition from the ancient landscapes of the Chiltern Hills to the historically rich town of Princes Risborough encapsulates a unique blend of England’s natural and cultural heritage.
And you, what is your favourite walk in the Chilterns? Let me know in the comment section below.
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Gomshall to Guildford Walk – Complete Guide & Map
Welcome to the enchanting Gomshall to Guildford Walk, a delightful journey through the picturesque landscapes of Surrey, rich in history and natural beauty. If you’re seeking a perfect blend of rural tranquillity, charming villages, and a touch of cinematic allure, this 9.6-mile trek is tailor-made for you. As we embark on this adventure, we’ll explore the serene village of Gomshall, wander through the iconic Shere village, meander along the Fox Way, and traverse Blackheath Common, all before reaching the historic town of Guildford. So, lace up your walking shoes, pack your essentials, and join us as we uncover the wonders of the Gomshall to Guildford Walk.
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Abbey Line Trail – Complete Guide & GPS Map
Embark on a journey along the Abbey Line Trail, a pathway rich in natural beauty and steeped in history. Starting from the bustling town of Watford, this trail winds its way through the scenic Hertfordshire countryside, leading you to the charming city of St Albans. As you traverse this path, you’ll encounter verdant fields, tranquil rivers, and a tapestry of landscapes that have witnessed centuries of change. Join us on a walk offering a unique glimpse into the heart of England’s picturesque countryside.
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Crab And Winkle Way Walk – Map & Complete Guide
Welcome, fellow adventurers and nature enthusiasts! Are you ready to discover one of Kent’s walking routes? The Crab and Winkle Way walk, a scenic and historic trail, offers a unique blend of coastal charm, lush woodlands, and rich history. Spanning approximately 7.45 miles, this easy-to-navigate route takes you from the quaint seaside town of Whitstable to the historic city of Canterbury, immersing you in a journey that is as enlightening as it is refreshing. Originally the path of a pioneering railway line, the Crab and Winkle Way has transformed into a beloved walking and cycling trail, inviting visitors to explore the beauty of Kent’s countryside. Let’s delve into the enchanting journey that awaits you on this historic trail.
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