Chartwell & Greensand Ridge Hike – Edenbridge to Westerham - Sat 17 Oct

Explore one of Kent’s most rewarding countryside walks, climbing from the peaceful Eden Valley to the Greensand Ridge and passing some of the area's most famous historic and natural landmarks. The route takes us past Chartwell, Winston Churchill’s former home, before continuing through rolling hills, woodland and beautiful National Trust landscapes to Emmetts Garden and Westerham.

17.8 km (11 miles)   |   Approx. 500 m ascent   |   Hard · 8/10   |   Approx. 6 hours walking   |   Linear Walk

The Route

Starting at Edenbridge Station, we gradually leave the Eden Valley and climb through fields and countryside towards the Greensand Ridge. As we gain height, the views open across the Kent countryside before the route reaches Chartwell, the much-loved country home of Winston Churchill.

The walk then continues across the higher ground around High Chart, Toys Hill and Ide Hill, through woodland and rolling countryside to Emmetts Garden. From here we continue towards the historic town of Westerham, where the walk finishes with cafés and pubs available for a well-earned drink.

Route Highlights

• Chartwell — Winston Churchill’s former family home, now cared for by the National Trust.
• Greensand Ridge — elevated countryside with wide views across the Weald of Kent.
• Mariners Hill — beautiful viewpoints across the surrounding countryside.
• Toys Hill & High Chart — woodland, hills and classic Kent scenery.
• Ide Hill — one of the attractive villages along the Greensand Ridge.
• Emmetts Garden — historic National Trust gardens surrounded by woodland.
• Westerham — historic Kent town with cafés, traditional pubs and village atmosphere.
• Quebec House — historic National Trust property in the centre of Westerham.

Event Details

• Meeting Point: 08:45 am at  London Bridge Station by the Shard entrance (Adjacent to Redwood Sports Pub & Kitchen)
• Starting Point: Edenbridge Railway Station
• Finishing Point: Westerham Town Centre
• Total Distance: 17.8 km / 11 miles
• Elevation Gain: Approximately 500 metres
• Walking Time: Approximately 7 hours
• Difficulty: Hard — 8/10
• Route Type: Linear

Difficulty

Hard · 8/10. Although the distance is moderate, this is a genuinely hilly walk with several climbs and some steep sections. A good level of fitness and suitable hiking footwear are recommended. Paths can also become muddy and slippery after rain, particularly during autumn and winter.

Important Route Information

• This is a linear walk: we start in Edenbridge and finish in Westerham.
• The route contains several significant hills and steep sections.
• There are extensive sections through fields, woodland and countryside paths.
• Chartwell is approximately 6.8 km / 4.2 miles into the walk.
• Emmetts Garden is approximately 13.7 km / 8.5 miles into the walk.
• There are opportunities for refreshments at Chartwell, Ide Hill, Emmetts Garden and Westerham.
• Please bring water, snacks, suitable hiking boots and waterproof clothing.

Getting There & Returning to London

We meet at London Bridge Station and travel together towards Edenbridge Station. The journey normally requires a change at Redhill or Tonbridge.

The hike finishes in Westerham. From Westerham we can take the 246 bus towards Bromley South Station, followed by a fast train back into London.

Important: Final train, bus and meeting times will be confirmed before the event, as public transport timetables may change.