Downe and around
This was an excellent walk supported by 9 members -Andy played a sub at lunch time bringing on Stephen fresh from his S American travels: lovely countryside, weather and pub. And very carefully led, getting us to the pub just in time.
An impressive 1000 yr old yew tree was seen as we walked through Cudham churchyard. Think of all the walkers it had witnessed over the years !!!!
There is a stopping train from Charing Cross at 9.16 am. Alternatively, there is a fast train at 9.25 am from which you can change to the 9.16 at Orpington. Return trains run at 15 and 45 minutes past the hour.
This circular walk is on the borders of the London suburbs and the Kent countryside, on the fringes of the North Downs and close to Biggin Hill. Beyond the suburbs, the circular route is partly wooded and partly open countryside, so there should be autumn colour. It passes by Down House (English Heritage, and worth visiting on another occasion) where Charles Darwin lived with his wife and family for 40 years and developed his theory of evolution. Depending on Sunday services, Downe and Cudham churches are both worth a look. There are moderate climbs and descents, one or two stiles and at one point a tree which has been left blocking the path which can be crossed by sitting on the trunk and swinging the legs over.
The Blacksmith’s Arms, Cudham, TN14 7QB, telephone 01959 572678. We are booked in for lunch at 12.30.