FalconWood to Greenwich Walk

Starting near Falconwood, this 14 km (approximately 8.7 miles) point-to-point trail offers a delightful journey through the outskirts of London, England. With an elevation gain of around 100 meters (328 feet), the trail is rated as medium difficulty, making it suitable for moderately experienced hikers.

Getting There To reach the trailhead, you can take public transport to Falconwood Station, which is well-connected via the Southeastern Railway. If you're driving, you can park near Falconwood Station, located at 1 Falconwood Parade, Welling, DA16 2PL.

Trail Overview The trail begins in the suburban area of Falconwood, gradually transitioning into more natural settings as you move away from the urban environment. The initial part of the hike takes you through Oxleas Wood, a beautiful ancient woodland that dates back over 8,000 years. Here, you can enjoy the serene atmosphere and spot various species of birds and small mammals.

Oxleas Wood to Eltham Palace After approximately 3 km (1.9 miles), you'll reach Eltham Palace, a stunning blend of medieval and Art Deco architecture. The palace was once a royal residence and is now managed by English Heritage. It's worth taking a short detour to explore the palace grounds and gardens.

Eltham Palace to Blackheath Continuing on, the trail leads you through the picturesque Eltham Park South and into the open spaces of Blackheath. This section covers around 4 km (2.5 miles) and offers relatively flat terrain, making it a pleasant walk. Blackheath itself is a historic area, known for its open heathland and the All Saints' Church, a notable landmark.

Blackheath to Greenwich Park The final stretch of the trail, approximately 7 km (4.3 miles), takes you through Greenwich Park, one of London's Royal Parks. As you enter the park, you'll be greeted by expansive views of the River Thames and the iconic skyline of Canary Wharf. The park is home to the Royal Observatory, the Prime Meridian Line, and the National Maritime Museum, all of which are steeped in history and worth a visit.

Navigation and Safety For navigation, it's highly recommended to use the HiiKER app, which provides detailed maps and real-time updates. The trail is generally well-marked, but having a reliable navigation tool will ensure you stay on track.

Flora and Fauna Throughout the hike, you'll encounter a variety of flora, including ancient oak trees in Oxleas Wood and ornamental gardens in Greenwich Park. Wildlife enthusiasts can look out for deer in Greenwich Park and a variety of bird species along the entire route.

Historical Significance The trail is rich in historical significance, from the ancient woodlands of Oxleas to the royal heritage of Eltham Palace and Greenwich. Each section of the trail offers a glimpse into different periods of English history, making it not just a physical journey but a historical one as well.

Final Stretch As you approach the end of the trail in Greenwich, you'll find yourself in a vibrant area filled with markets, cafes, and the historic Cutty Sark ship. The trail officially ends near the Greenwich Pier, where you can easily catch public transport back to central London or other destinations.

This trail offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and urban exploration, making it a must-do for any hiking enthusiast visiting London.